The Challenge
AsBuilt was contracted to deliver point cloud development, 3D solid modeling, and 2D as-built drawings for a commercial retail center to support a tenant expansion project.
The client planned to expand an existing Starbucks location into an adjacent retail unit formerly occupied by TCBY. However, accurate architectural documentation of the existing conditions was limited and outdated. The expansion required precise measurements of:
- Interior wall layouts
- Structural elements
- Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems
- Storefront and façade conditions
- Ceiling heights and utility routing
Without verified as-built documentation, the project faced risks of design conflicts, permit delays, and costly field changes during construction.
The Solution
AsBuilt deployed high-resolution terrestrial laser scanning (LiDAR) to capture complete existing conditions of both the building exterior and the interior of the former TCBY unit.
Field Capture Scope
- Exterior façade and storefront conditions
- Interior layout of the former tenant space
- Structural framing and ceiling systems
- Visible MEP systems and utilities
- Floor elevations and spatial dimensions
The laser scan data was registered and processed into a precise, colorized point cloud, providing a reliable digital foundation for modeling and documentation.
3D Modeling & Documentation
Using the processed scan data, AsBuilt developed an accurate 3D as-built model of:
- The building exterior
- The interior tenant space
- Structural and architectural components
From the model, AsBuilt produced comprehensive 2D CAD drawings (DWG format) to support architectural design, permitting, and construction planning, including:
- Interior floor plans
- Reflected ceiling plans (as required)
- Interior elevations
- Exterior building elevations
These deliverables provided the Starbucks design team with verified dimensions and spatial clarity, enabling a streamlined expansion process with reduced risk of rework.
Deliverables
- Raw laser scan data (Recap format)
- Post-processed, registered point cloud
- Photorealistic 3D visualization
- 3D as-built model (DWG)
- Detailed 2D as-built drawings (floor plans and elevations)
Results & Impact
The project provided the client with accurate, permit-ready as-built documentation to support retail tenant improvement and expansion. By leveraging 3D laser scanning and BIM-based modeling, AsBuilt minimized measurement errors, reduced design uncertainty, and accelerated the Starbucks build-out process.
