HOLISTEEC was an EU-funded FP7 research project focused on advancing energy-efficient building design. It developed a cloud-based, BIM-integrated platform for holistic life-cycle support during architectural design phases.cordis.europa+1
Project Overview
The project ran from 2013 to 2017, creating a collaborative software platform with nine interconnected tools via APIs. These enabled multi-criteria optimization, simulating building performance across physical scales while factoring in urban surroundings.b4l.ectp+1
Key Features
- Innovative feedback-loop workflows linking design and multi-physical simulations (e.g., energy, structure, environment).cordis.europa+1
- Unified data model using standards like IFC, CityGML, and BCF for stakeholder collaboration beyond traditional coordination.[cordis.europa]
- Focus on early design phases to validate options against regulations, comfort, and performance goals.[cordis.europa]
Methodology and Validation
HOLISTEEC introduced a BIM-based methodology merging design and assessment, unlike siloed traditional practices. It was tested on five real-world cases, showing gains in time savings, process efficiency, and building value.cordis.europa+1


