MULTI-AR

About

WHY BIM?

Multi-Automated Review (Multi-AR) is a research initiative exploring how digital technologies can accelerate the municipal permitting process for housing. The project investigates how Building Information Modeling (BIM) and automated compliance E-check software can streamline development approvals by enabling faster and more accurate regulatory review.

By combining BIM-based design with automated compliance review systems, Multi-AR aims to support:

  • Faster permit application preparation

  • Faster municipal review and approvals

  • Reduced administrative costs

  • Improved consistency in regulatory interpretation

  • More efficient housing delivery at scale

Currently existing auto-review software is based on 2D drawing data, greatly limiting its auto-review capabilities. By using BIM submissions, with enhanced 3D data built directly into the model, automated review software can review applications instantly and reliably.

Project Team

Multi-AR is a collaborative research initiative led by Arno Matis Architecture + Urbanism Inc. and brings together expertise in architecture, digital technology, and BIM standards to explore a new approach to automated permitting. The Multi-AR research initiative is supported by co-investment from AMA+U and federal and provincial government funding programs, reflecting the growing importance of digital innovation in addressing Canada’s housing challenges.

AMA+U is an award-winning architecture and urban design firm based in Vancouver with more than 30 years of experience delivering residential and mixed-use developments across North America. The firm specializes in navigating complex municipal approvals and has deep expertise in urban policy, housing design, and development processes.

For the Multi-AR project, AMA+U leads overall project coordination and research development. The team focuses on translating municipal regulations into structured datasets that can be embedded within BIM models, enabling automated compliance checking.

Archistar is a global technology company specializing in automated planning and code-compliance software used by cities, architects, and developers. Founded in 2010, the company has developed digital platforms that translate planning regulations into machine-readable rules for real-world development projects.

Within the Multi-AR project, Archistar is responsible for the automated review technology, including rule-based compliance checking, BIM model ingestion, and the generation of detailed compliance reports.

SolidCAD is a leading Canadian provider of digital design and BIM solutions for the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. The company supports organizations in implementing advanced digital workflows and maintaining high-quality BIM standards.

For Multi-AR, SolidCAD provides guidance on BIM standards and model validation to ensure building models are structured to support reliable automation and regulatory compliance checks.