DOI: 10.3303/CET25121014 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Paper Received: 23 August 2025; Revised: 15 November 2025; Accepted: 03 December 2025 
Please cite this article as: Semjén Á.Á., Ajtayné Károlyfi K., Szép J., 2025, Integration of BIM and Parametric Modeling for Sustainable Building 
Design, Chemical Engineering Transactions, 121, 79-84  DOI:10.3303/CET25121014 
  

 CHEMICAL ENGINEERING TRANSACTIONS  
 

VOL. 121, 2025 

A publication of 

 

The Italian Association 
of Chemical Engineering 
Online at www.cetjournal.it 

Guest Editors: Petar S. Varbanov 

Copyright © 2025, AIDIC Servizi S.r.l. 

ISBN 979-12-81206-22-9; ISSN 2283-9216 

Integration of BIM and Parametric Modeling for Sustainable 

Building Design 

Álmos Á. Semjéna,b, Kitti Ajtayné Károlyfi*,b, János Szépb 

aWest Hungária Bau  Kft, Budapest, Hungary 
bDepartment of Structural and Geotechnical Engineering, Széchenyi István University, Egyetem tér 1, 9026 Győr, Hungary 

 karolyfi.kitti@sze.hu 

Due to increasingly stringent environmental regulations and the significant environmental impact associated 

with the construction, execution, operation, and renovation of buildings, sustainability is receiving growing 

emphasis in the construction industry. The short- and long-term environmental impact of a building is influenced 

by numerous factors: during the design phase, for example, location, geometry, materials used, and building 

services systems play a key role, but the methods applied during construction, the logistical aspects, the 

organization and quality of operational and maintenance processes, as well as waste management during 

renovation or demolition at the end of the building's life cycle are also of great importance. This study explores 

how parametric modelling and BIM can be integrated to support sustainable building design and practices. This 

literature review presents modern procedures and toolsets applicable in the design, construction, operation, and 

demolition/renovation phases of buildings, and identifies current research trends, gaps, and challenges. 

The review highlights that the integration of Building Information Modelling BIM and parametric modelling 

provides significant opportunities for improving sustainability performance throughout the building life cycle. In 

the design and construction phases, these tools enable optimisation of energy use, material efficiency, and 

embodied carbon reduction, while in operation and refurbishment, they support data-driven maintenance and 

circular material management. The findings indicate that despite rapid technological development, major 

challenges remain in interoperability, standardisation, and the integration of social and economic sustainability 

indicators. 

1. Introduction 

The construction industry has a significant environmental burden, particularly in terms of energy consumption 

and carbon emissions. According to Gan et al. (2023), material choices and design alternatives greatly influence 

the lifecycle carbon footprint of buildings. Sghiri et al. (2025) highlight that advanced technologies such as digital 

twins offer considerable potential for improving operational energy performance. Metvaei et al. (2025) further 

demonstrate how BIM-supported prefabrication workflows can contribute to reducing embodied emissions in 

the construction phase. 

Considering the whole life cycle of buildings from design and construction to operation, renovation or demolition, 

it is essential to integrate sustainability considerations. As environmental requirements become more stringent 

and construction processes more complex, there is an increasing need for digital tools that can support effective, 

environmentally conscious decision-making (Metvaei et al., 2025).  

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a data-driven methodology that organises building information within a 

structured 3D model, enabling coordination across all stages of the building lifecycle. Parametric modelling 

works in parallel with an algorithmic basis, allowing for the automatic modification and optimisation of design 

variables. The integration of the two methods, i.e., the BIM-based application of the parametric approach, opens 

up new possibilities for sustainable building design.  

The aim of this paper is to show how the integration of BIM and parametric modelling can be applied throughout 

the life cycle of a building to achieve sustainability goals, presenting current research and practical application 

trends in the design, construction, operation and demolition or renovation phases. 

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The novelty of this paper lies in its comprehensive synthesis of recent research focusing on the integration of 

BIM and parametric modelling for sustainable building design and operation. Unlike previous reviews that often 

examine either BIM-based sustainability assessment or parametric optimisation separately, this study analyses 

their combined application across all phases of the building life cycle—design, construction, operation, and 

demolition or refurbishment. By mapping current research trends and identifying methodological gaps and 

challenges, the paper contributes to a more holistic understanding of how digital tools can jointly support 

environmental performance improvement throughout the built environment. 

2. Research methodology 

This study explores how the integrated application of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and parametric 

modelling can support sustainable design and operation practices throughout the building life cycle. The 

research follows a qualitative literature review approach based on peer-reviewed papers and case studies 

published in English after 2018. The process is illustrated in Figure 1, which presents the workflow. 

Literature identification. A keyword-based search was carried out across the ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, 

and Scopus databases. Search terms included combinations such as “BIM and sustainability”, “parametric 

design and lifecycle analysis”, “carbon optimisation in building design”, and “digital construction tools for low-

energy buildings”. 

Screening and selection. The collected papers were screened to exclude duplicates, non-peer-reviewed, and 

non-English sources. Only studies with a clear methodological structure and a direct link between BIM, 

parametric modelling, and sustainability performance were retained. 

Classification. The selected literature was grouped according to the four primary phases of the building life 

cycle—design, construction, operation, and refurbishment or demolition—and by their analytical focus, such as 

optimisation, digital workflows, or lifecycle assessment. 

Evaluation. Within each category, the studies were compared based on their applied methods, tool integration, 

and measurable sustainability indicators (operational energy use, embodied carbon reduction, material 

efficiency). 

Synthesis. The findings were synthesised to identify research trends, methodological gaps, and emerging 

directions for integrating BIM and parametric modelling in sustainable building design and management. 

 

Figure 1: Investigation procedure 

This structured process ensures transparency and reproducibility in analysing how digital tools jointly contribute 

to sustainability objectives across all life cycle phases. 

3. Design phase 

In sustainable building design, early-stage decisions related to geometry, material selection and energy strategy 

are critical in determining long-term environmental impacts. Parametric modelling and Building Information 

Modelling (BIM) integration enable the generation, analysis and optimisation of multiple design alternatives, 

supporting environmentally responsible decision-making from the initial concept phase. 

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Najjar et al. (2019) demonstrated that the window-to-wall ratio is one of the most influential parameters for 

energy performance. Their study found that a 15% increase in window surface area could lead to a 20–45 % 

increase in annual energy use, particularly in warm climates. While the thermal performance of wall and roof 

materials plays a secondary role, it can still contribute to overall efficiency when optimised appropriately. 

Mowafy et al. (2023) developed a modular parametric BIM-based life cycle assessment framework that 

comparеs conventional and circular design approaches. Their model incorporates five key components:  data 

collection, emission quantification, Life Cycle Assessment LCA, Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II 

(NSGA-II) -based optimisation, and Data Envelopment Analysis DEA-supported decision-making. Applied to a 

residential case study, the framework evaluated over 2,000 design variants and revealed that while circular 

strategies reduce embodied emissions, they may increase operational loads, requiring careful balancing. 

Gan et al. (2023) introduced a parametric BIM framework for the carbon performance prediction and optimisation 

of residential high-rises. Their findings showed that adjusting building orientation could result in annual energy 

savings of up to 29 MWh, while the use of alternative materials such as PFA and GGBS contributed to a 52 % 

reduction in embodied carbon. The study also compared two global climate scenarios (1.5 °C Net-Zero and 3 °C 

Hot House), highlighting the design implications of stricter decarbonisation targets. 

In terms of structural design, Ajtayné and Szép (2023) presented a parametric BIM-based method for assessing 

the environmental impact of alternative geometries. They analysed 48 different hall configurations and found 

that changes in span and grid spacing significantly affected embodied emissions, particularly due to the 

increased use of reinforced concrete in wider structural modules. Their model enables real-time feedback on 

environmental indicators, facilitating early-stage optimisation during conceptual design. 

Altogether, these studies confirm that parametric BIM tools provide powerful means of embedding sustainability 

into the design process. By quantifying both operational and embodied impacts across a wide range of 

configurations, these methods support evidence-based decisions aligned with long-term environmental 

performance objectives. 

3.1 Detailed case study: Parametric BIM-based LCA framework (Mowafy et al., 2023) 

Scope and aim. Mowafy et al. (2023) develop a parametric BIM-based life-cycle assessment (LCA) framework 

to evaluate conventional (cradle-to-grave) and circular cradle-to-cradle design approaches by jointly quantifying 

embodied (initial, recurrent, EoL/reuse) and operational emissions. The goal is to support material selection and 

trade-off exploration in early design. 

Framework and toolchain. The framework comprises five modules: (1) Data acquisition, (2) Operating & 

embodied emissions, (3) LCA, (4) Optimisation, and (5) Decision-making. It integrates Autodesk Revit with 

Rhino/Grasshopper, using Rhino-Inside-Revit and BHoM for quantities; Honeybee/Ladybug 

(EnergyPlus/OpenStudio) for operational simulation; Bombyx with the KBOB database for embodied factors and 

thermal data; NSGA-II via Wallacei X for multi-objective optimisation; and DEA (OSDEA, EMS) to rank Pareto-

optimal solutions. 

Case setup. A two-storey residential villa in Cairo (climate 2B) is analysed. Building elements considered are 

external/internal walls, floors, roofs, and windows (structural frames and foundations excluded). Thermal 

transmittance (U-value) constraints are applied (e.g., walls 1 W/m²K; roof 0.6 W/m²K; windows 3.98 W/m²K). 

Simulations generate 2,000 feasible design solutions per approach; Pareto fronts contain 326 (conventional) 

and 498 (circular) solutions. 

Optimisation & decision-making. Objectives include minimising embodied Global Warming Potential GWP, 

operating GWP, disposal/reuse impacts, and surface energy flow subject to U-value bounds. For the circular 

approach, reuse percentages for elements are optimisation variables. DEA treats each Pareto solution as a 

DMU to identify efficient and super-efficient options for final selection and cross-approach comparison. 

Key findings from the study. Operating impacts dominate overall GWP in both approaches; embodied and 

EoL/reuse contribute less. The circular approach achieves lower embodied GWP bounds (min 18.14 vs. 19.53 

kgCO₂ eq/(m²·y) for conventional), but tends to increase operating GWP due to the higher heat transmittance 

of some materials. Reported ranges include conventional embodied GWP up to 112.7 kgCO₂ eq/(m²·y), while 

circular peaks at 31.95 kgCO₂ eq/(m²·y). Many operational GWP values fall around 285–290 kgCO₂ eq/(m²·y). 

In the comparison DEA model, the top-ranked overall solution comes from the conventional set; however, a 

leading circular solution shows substantial embodied savings (e.g., 28.47 % reduction between first and 

intermediate cycles in one case). Reuse rates vary by element (e.g., walls often 11–47 %, roofs/windows 

frequently higher), and higher reuse does not uniformly translate to the lowest total impacts, reflecting trade-offs 

among element GWPs and thermal performance. 

Relevance to this review. This case concretely illustrates how BIM-parametric integration operationalises life-

cycle thinking: unified data flow, transparent LCA boundaries (A-C, D), multi-objective search, and non-

subjective ranking (DEA). It also exemplifies a recurring theme in the literature—embodied-versus-operational 

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trade-offs—and the need for database interoperability and context-specific thermal/embodied data when 

comparing conventional and circular strategies. 

4.  Construction phase 

During the construction phase, the integration of parametric design and BIM can significantly enhance material 

efficiency, energy performance, and overall process optimisation. Digital workflows involving robotic 

manufacturing and automated decision systems are increasingly enabling more sustainable construction 

methods, particularly in off-site and prefabricated contexts. 

Mehdipoor et al. (2025) developed a generative parametric framework that combines BIM with robotic 

manufacturing to produce free-form façade panels in a resource-efficient manner. Their workflow integrates 

ArchiCAD-based modelling, energy analysis using Ladybug and EcoDesigner, and genetic algorithm-driven 

optimisation via Wallacei. CNC robotic arms are used to fabricate custom façade components based on solar 

radiation analysis, enabling the system to reduce solar exposure by 45 % while generating over 630 m2 of 

tailored shading surfaces. The real-time feedback loop in their workflow points toward future improvements in 

responsive design and manufacturing. 

Metvaei et al. (2025) proposed a BIM-enabled robotic manufacturing framework for the mass customisation of 

prefabricated building elements. Their two-phase digital process begins with a configurator that generates a BIM 

model incorporating Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) considerations. In the second phase, robot 

codes are directly generated from the BIM model using Autodesk Revit and ABB RobotStudio APIs, eliminating 

the need for file conversion. Their system supports full automation of material handling, assembly, and 

sequencing operations, and was successfully demonstrated through the prefabrication of light gauge steel 

panels for a two-storey residential building. While current applications are primarily focused on façade systems 

and wall panel prefabrication, these studies demonstrate how parametric BIM methods and robotic 

manufacturing can increase construction efficiency, reduce material waste, and advance sustainability 

objectives in practical workflows. Further research is needed to extend such methods to other structural and 

envelope components and to integrate life cycle impact assessments in the manufacturing process. 

5. Operation and maintenance 

In the operational phase of buildings, data-driven technologies such as digital twins and predictive maintenance 

systems can significantly enhance energy efficiency, reduce operating costs, and improve sustainability 

outcomes. By integrating real-time sensor data with BIM and simulation tools, buildings can be managed in a 

more responsive and resource-conscious manner. 

Sghiri et al. (2025) conducted a systematic literature review on the role of digital twins in building energy 

efficiency. They identified key applications such as real-time Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) 

control, occupancy-based lighting optimisation, predictive modelling of energy demands, and fault detection. 

The technologies supporting these applications include IoT sensors, machine learning algorithms (e.g., LSTM, 

CNN, SVM), and cloud-based or edge computing architectures. However, they also noted significant challenges 

related to interoperability between platforms, data privacy, and the variability of occupant behaviour. 

Hauashdh et al. (2024) proposed an integrated framework for sustainable and efficient maintenance operations 

aligned with climate change adaptation and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Their model is 

structured around three layers: identifying organisational and technological challenges, evaluating 

environmental, social, and economic impacts, and developing intervention strategies. Suggested approaches 

include predictive maintenance, material sustainability assessments, and the adoption of safety protocols. The 

framework was validated by industry experts and is particularly applicable to the public sector and organised 

maintenance service providers.  

These studies highlight the potential of digital tools to support adaptive, low-carbon operations across building 

stock. However, widespread adoption still faces barriers such as legacy systems, a lack of standardised 

protocols, and technical complexity. Future efforts must focus on improving interoperability, securing data, and 

developing context-aware operational strategies that respond to both user needs and environmental pressures. 

6. Refurbishment and demolition 

The renovation and demolition phases present important opportunities to enhance the sustainability of the built 

environment through strategic planning, material reuse, and the integration of digital technologies. Parametric 

modelling and BIM can support data-driven decisions that optimise daylight access, thermal performance, and 

material flow management. Amoruso et al. (2019) proposed an integrated BIM-parametric workflow to improve 

daylight availability and visual comfort in the refurbishment of outdated apartment buildings in Seoul, South 

Korea. Their simulation-based approach combined Autodesk Revit and Rhinoceros–Grasshopper tools with 

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Radiance and EnergyPlus for environmental analysis. Interventions such as reducing the window-to-wall ratio, 

increasing g-values, and adding shading devices were shown to improve daylight autonomy by 30 % and useful 

daylight illuminance by 15 %. The integration of modular façade panels and building-integrated photovoltaics 

(BIPV) also contributed to improved thermal performance and renewable energy generation. 

For end-of-life demolition planning, Han and Rajabifard (2024) introduced a BIM-based life cycle sustainability 

assessment framework that combines environmental, economic, and social indicators. Using Revit and Dynamo 

to link material quantities with impact data, and applying a hybrid AHP-TOPSIS method, they evaluated multiple 

demolition scenarios with varying recycling rates. Their case study on a four-storey residential building showed 

that a 90 % recycling rate scenario achieved the highest sustainability score, although marginal returns 

diminished beyond a certain point. The framework also included visualisation of high-impact materials directly 

within the BIM model. These applications demonstrate how digital tools can support the circular transformation 

of the construction sector. Parametric BIM environments provide a platform for optimising both retrofit strategies 

and demolition logistics, enabling more sustainable use of materials, improved energy performance, and 

reduced environmental impact. 

7. Research trends and challenges 

Recent years have seen the growing integration of parametric modelling and BIM as a central strategy for 

advancing sustainability in architecture, engineering, and construction. Emerging trends include the adoption of 

life cycle-based design models, AI-assisted optimisation, digital twins for real-time performance monitoring, and 

the use of cloud-based, interoperable platforms for managing the building life cycle.  

Cespedes-Cubides and Jradi (2024) highlighted the role of digital twins in improving operational energy 

efficiency. Their systematic review found that digital twins support predictive maintenance, component-level 

monitoring, and anomaly detection, while enabling integration with BIM and IoT systems. However, they also 

noted that current implementations are often limited by the availability of reliable BIM models for existing 

buildings, and that digital twin functionality is frequently reduced to data visualisation rather than active control. 

Ba et al. (2025) reviewed digital twin applications across industrial and urban infrastructures. They reported that 

in building systems, digital twins can deliver up to 30 % energy savings and significantly reduce operational 

costs when integrated with AI-based control systems. Despite these benefits, high implementation costs, 

integration challenges, and security concerns remain critical obstacles.  

Numan et al. (2024) analysed the use of BIM to support green certification schemes such as LEED and BEAM 

Plus. Their review emphasised that BIM-based optimisation can reduce energy consumption by up to 21 % and 

cut documentation time by more than half. However, the authors also pointed out persistent barriers to large-

scale deployment, such as interoperability limitations, the lack of standardised protocols, and the 

underrepresentation of social and economic indicators in most evaluation frameworks. 

Ajtayné and Szép (2023) identified methodological limitations in current parametric BIM models for structural 

design. Their framework, while capable of assessing embodied impacts during early-stage planning, is restricted 

to simple geometries and does not yet support full two-way feedback between structural analysis and design 

parameters. The study also noted that regional data dependencies (e.g., ÖKOBAUDAT) limit broader 

applicability. Collectively, these studies reveal both the technical potential and the structural limitations of current 

approaches. Widespread adoption is hindered by a combination of interoperability issues, high resource 

demands for digitalisation, and the insufficient integration of social and economic dimensions in sustainability 

assessments. Future research should aim to develop standardised, scalable, and adaptive frameworks that are 

able to incorporate real-time data, user behaviour, and broader life cycle considerations. 

8. Conclusions 

Achieving sustainability in the built environment requires integrated digital approaches that support informed 

decision-making across all phases of the building life cycle. The combined use of Building Information Modeling 

and parametric modelling offers powerful capabilities for early-stage design optimisation, material and energy 

efficiency, and lifecycle-based impact assessment.  

This review has demonstrated that BIM-parametric frameworks can quantify and reduce embodied and 

operational carbon through scenario analysis, algorithmic optimisation, and material assessment. Studies have 

shown significant potential in areas such as adaptive façade design, robotic prefabrication, and real-time energy 

management using digital twins. In the operation phase, data-driven tools allow for predictive maintenance and 

responsive energy use, while in refurbishment and demolition, they support resource-efficient planning and 

circular practices. Despite these advances, several barriers remain. Challenges related to software 

interoperability, data quality, modelling complexity, and the lack of standardised protocols continue to limit 

widespread adoption. Мost current models focus primarily on environmental criteria, while economic and social 

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aspects are still underrepresented in sustainability evaluation. Future research should focus on developing 

open, modular, and scalable frameworks that enable the integration of diverse sustainability indicators and 

support long-term lifecycle thinking. Emphasis should also be placed on retrofitting existing building stock, 

adapting tools to different regional contexts, and enhancing user-centric and adaptive system capabilities. 

9. Discussion 

The reviewed studies demonstrate that integrating BIM and parametric modelling is crucial to advancing 

sustainability across all phases of the building life cycle. In the design phase, the combined use of data-driven 

modelling and algorithmic optimisation enables the assessment of multiple design alternatives, improving both 

operational and embodied carbon performance. During construction, digital workflows and robotic 

manufacturing methods enhance material efficiency and reduce waste, indicating the growing relevance of 

automated, prefabricated systems. In the operation phase, digital twins and predictive maintenance approaches 

support energy-efficient management and adaptive control strategies, while in refurbishment and demolition, 

BIM-based life cycle assessment frameworks contribute to circular material use and sustainability evaluation. 

Across these phases, common trends include the increasing use of life cycle thinking, AI-assisted optimisation, 

and interoperable digital platforms. However, several challenges persist. The literature highlights barriers related 

to interoperability between software environments, high data and resource requirements, and the limited 

consideration of social and economic sustainability aspects. These findings underline the need for developing 

open, standardised frameworks capable of integrating real-time data, user behaviour, and comprehensive 

sustainability indicators. Overall, the review confirms that while significant progress has been achieved in linking 

BIM and parametric modelling, further methodological and technical developments are necessary to ensure 

their full potential in sustainable building practice. 

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