Urban Mixed-Use Design Challenge-Design a centrally located mixed-use building in Autodesk Revit with commercial spaces (Ground + 1st floor) and residential units (up to 8 floors). 1 Level of Basement (Car Parking + EV Charging), Total (B+G+9)(Note: Plot size and all required dimensions may be assumed by students (in mm units).
“You need to design a modern, eco-friendly building that combines shops on the bottom floors and apartments on the top. The building must include a basement for parking, a central garden area for fresh air, and a smart design that saves energy while looking great.”
Deconstructed Problem Blueprint
WHAT TO BUILD?
A comprehensive Building Information Modeling (BIM) project using Autodesk Revit, featuring a B+G+9 mixed-use structure with architectural, structural, and environmental design components.
WHO IS IT FOR?
Urban developers, city planners, and future residents who need sustainable, high-density housing that integrates commercial convenience with green living spaces.
WHY DOES IT EXIST?
Rapid urbanization leads to 'concrete jungles' that lack ventilation and green space. This problem addresses the need for climate-responsive, human-centric architecture that balances commercial utility with residential comfort.
INPUT → PROCESS → OUTPUT ARCHITECTURE PIPELINE
Site dimensions, local climate data (sun path/wind), Revit architectural templates, and structural material specifications.
BIM modeling in Revit, environmental simulation via Forma, structural load calculations, and facade optimization for thermal comfort.
3D Revit model, 2D structural reinforcement drawings, high-quality rendered images, and a 30-second architectural walkthrough video.
CONSTRAINTS
- Must use Autodesk Revit exclusively (no external 3D software for core modeling).
- Strict B+G+9 floor configuration (Basement + Ground + 9 floors).
- No AI-generated content allowed in the final design or presentation.
- Must include structural detailing for at least one floor.
- Submission must be completed within the specified SIH timeline.
JURY METRICS
- Quality of architectural aesthetics and facade innovation.
- Functional efficiency of the floor plans (daylight, ventilation, privacy).
- Technical accuracy of structural detailing and BIM data.
- Visual storytelling quality of the walkthrough and presentation.
- Integration of sustainable features (green terraces, courtyard).
CORE BOTTLENECK
Balancing the complex structural requirements (reinforcement detailing) with the aesthetic facade design within the limited time, while ensuring the Revit model remains lightweight and error-free.
Why You Should Choose This PS (Pros)
- Clear, tangible deliverables that showcase high technical proficiency.
- High 'wow' factor through rendering and architectural visualization.
- Direct alignment with industry-standard software (Autodesk ecosystem).
Challenges & Risks to Watch (Cons)
- High learning curve for advanced Revit features like structural reinforcement.
- Risk of file corruption in large BIM models.
- Subjective evaluation criteria regarding 'design aesthetics'.
Recommended Tech Stack & Grand Finale Features
Killer Features to Impress the SIH Jury
View Official SIH 2026 Portal Raw Text▼
For Grand Finale:
Students must use Autodesk Revit to design and create 3D Model of specific mixed used building within the given time period and present the following to the jury members:
Design a B+G+9 mixed-use development that brings together active commercial spaces and sustainable residential living. Create a nature-integrated, climate-responsive building centered around a landscaped courtyard that enhances daylight,ventilation, and occupant well-being.
Key Deliverables:
Note: Teams coming with pre-designed files will be disqualified.

