What is an IFC Space? Unlock the Hidden Value in Your BIM Models

” We recognise that accurately defined spaces are fundamental to a truly intelligent BIM model derived from point clouds. ” CloudForma

Today we ask a fundamental question to unlock the hidden value in your BIM models, so what is an IFC Space?

When we talk about Building Information Modelling, we visualise the geometry and physical components making up a building. But BIM is more than just pretty 3D models, it is about information. Some of the most critical information is tied to the very volumes we inhabit: the SPACES within a building.

In the world of OpenBIM, these volumes are precisely defined by the IFC Space.

Often overlooked, the humble IFC Space is a powerhouse of data to unlock critical insights for facility management, energy analysis, quantity take-offs and more. At CloudForma we recognise that accurately defined spaces are fundamental to a truly intelligent BIM model derived from point clouds.

1. What is an IFC Space?

At its core an IFC Space (IfcSpace) is a specific entity within the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) schema. It represents a defined physical volume or functional area within a building or site.

Think of it as the following.

A Container: It’s not just the void between walls. It is a distinct entity that can hold vast amounts of information related to that specific area.

More Than Geometry: While an IFC Space defines a geometric boundary, its true power lies in the associated properties and relationships. It might represent an office, a corridor, a plant room or even an external zone.

Hierarchical Structure: IFC Spaces exist within a clear hierarchy. For instance, an IfcSpace typically belongs to an IfcBuildingStorey which in turn belongs to an IfcBuilding. This relationship allows for organised data management and analysis.

Unlike a wall – IfcWall or a beam – IfcBeam, an IFC Space focuses on the function and characteristics of the enclosed area rather than the physical elements that enclose it.

2. Why are IFC Spaces Indispensable?

The data embedded within IFC Spaces is crucial for countless applications throughout a building’s lifecycle.

Accurate Quantity Take-offs and Area Calculations

Precisely calculate gross, net and usable areas for leasing, sales and costing,
Determine the volume of air to be conditioned for MEP systems,
Essential for space planning and efficiency metrics.

Robust Facility Management (FM) and Operations

Assign unique room numbers, names (e.g. Office 301 or Server Room A) and functional classifications,
Link assets (HVAC units, light fixtures, furniture) directly to the spaces they occupy for easy tracking and maintenance scheduling,
Manage occupancy loads, safety regulations and cleaning schedules tied to specific areas.

Advanced Energy Analysis

Define thermal zones based on IFC Spaces, enabling accurate calculations of heating and cooling loads,
Simulate energy performance and identify areas for optimisation.

Occupancy, Egress and Safety Planning

Analyse occupant loads for fire safety and emergency evacuation planning,
Ensure compliance with building codes regarding exit routes and accessibility.

Spatial Coordination and Validation

Detect unintentional overlaps or gaps between spaces in the model,
Verify that all areas of a building are accounted for and correctly categorised.

Enhanced Data Organisation

Acts as a container helping organise all related information for that specific part of the building, from finishes to equipment.

3. IFC Space in the Scan-to-BIM Workflow

For Scan-to-BIM, the creation of accurate IFC Spaces is a critical step in transforming raw point cloud data into an intelligent and actionable BIM model.

Walls and slabs can often be semi-automatically derived from scan geometry. But defining spaces requires a deeper level of interpretation and intelligence which often involves the following.

Manual Delineation: Operators manually define space boundaries within a modelling software based on the point cloud.

Semi-Automated Detection: Advanced algorithms can detect enclosed volumes and suggest space boundaries based on walls, floors and ceilings.

Information Assignment: Crucially, once the geometry of a space is defined, relevant data must be associated with it to make it a truly intelligent IFC Space.

Accurate spatial definition derived from reality capture ensures that the digital twin truly reflects the as-built conditions. This provides a reliable foundation for all downstream analyses and management tasks.

4. The Data Behind the Space

An IfcSpace isn’t just an empty box. It carries a rich set of properties and attributes that make it powerful and can include:

Name and LongName: (e.g. “Office” “Main Lobby” “Room 301“).
Number: (e.g. “R-301“).
Area and Volume: Calculated from the space geometry.
IfcSpaceType: A classification (e.g. “OFFICE” “CORRIDOR” “PLANT_ROOM“).
Psets (Property Sets): Custom properties such as Pset_SpaceCommon which might include FireRating, OccupancyType, AcousticRating, FloorFinish, WallFinish, CeilingFinish and more.

These data points transform a simple geometric volume into a smart object which is capable of being queried, analysed and managed throughout its lifecycle.

5. Ensuring Quality IFC Spaces

To fully leverage the power of IFC Spaces, attention to detail in their creation and validation is paramount as follows.

Clear BEP Definitions: Your BIM Execution Plan should clearly define how spaces are to be modelled, named, numbered and what properties they must contain.

Consistent Naming Conventions: Implementing rigorous naming and numbering schemes for spaces ensures clarity and consistency.

Validation Tools: Utilising IFC viewers and validation software to check for the following is key.

Undefined or Unenclosed Spaces: Identifying areas that should be spaces but aren’t.
Overlapping Spaces: Identifying conflicts where two spaces occupy the same volume.
Boundary Issues: Identifying spaces extending beyond their intended physical boundaries.
Missing or Incorrect Properties: Ensuring all data fields are populated.

6. Building Intelligent Spaces from Reality

At CloudForma we understand that a truly valuable BIM model starts with accurate reality capture and culminates in structured, intelligent data. Our automated e57 to IFC workflow is meticulously designed to ensure that your point cloud translates into robust IFC Spaces.

We empower you to move beyond basic geometry, ensuring that every square meter of your project is not just visualised but fully understood and actionable for every stage of your building’s lifecycle. With our solution, the missing link between your scans and intelligent IFC data is finally closed. We allow you to unlock the full power of OpenBIM.

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