Capitol commission hears update on digital ‘HBIM’ twin, phased glass-floor repairs and landscape work

LANSING, Mich. — At its March 3, 2025 meeting, the Michigan State Capitol Commission heard an update from Executive Director Rob Blackshaw on a digital historical building information model (HBIM) and several preservation and operations projects, including a five‑phase replacement of the rotunda glass floor, work on the landscape master plan to remove hazardous trees, and the pending Fourth Floor ceiling contract bids.

The commission was shown the HBIM — described by staff as a “digital twin” built in Autodesk Tandem — which combines architectural drawings, laser scans, photographs and live building systems data so staff can view mechanical and electrical systems, preservation records and maintenance histories in one place. Blackshaw said the model is being piloted in the governor’s suite and will be expanded over time. “We are creating our HBIM with the use of Autodesk Tandem, which is now called a digital twin,” Blackshaw said.

The HBIM links multiple databases and tools, staff demonstrated, including: live temperature and humidity “heat maps” tied to the building management system, mechanical and electrical (MEP) drawings exposed “behind the walls,” photographic condition records for decorative ceilings, and work‑order histories for equipment in the essential utility plant. Blackshaw said the model helps prioritize inspections and reduces the time crews…