Coordinated Tekla model
Development of a fully coordinated 3D Tekla model.
LocationMiami (PortMiami), Florida, USA
OwnerNorwegian Cruise Line
General contractor / fabricatorHaskell Steel
ArchitectBermello Ajamil & Partners
Structural engineerDDA Engineers, P.A.
Completion2019
Total steel~7,700 tons
Project overview
A large-scale, state-of-the-art cruise facility at Port Miami.
The Norwegian Cruise Line Terminal B at Port Miami is a large-scale, state-of-the-art cruise facility designed to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency. Spanning approximately 166,500 square feet and supporting ships with up to 5,000 passengers, the terminal integrates advanced technologies for streamlined embarkation, security screening, and luggage handling.
The project combines complex structural systems with architectural features tailored to high-volume passenger flow, including dedicated lounge areas, service zones, and direct access parking facilities.
With approximately 7,700 tons of structural steel, the project required a high level of coordination across multiple disciplines to ensure seamless integration of structural, architectural, and operational elements.
Detailing scope
Full steel detailing in accordance with the AISC Code of Standard Practice.
Our scope covered full steel detailing in accordance with the AISC Code of Standard Practice.
Structural systems
Detailing of primary and secondary structural steel systems.
Shop drawings
Preparation of shop drawings for structural and miscellaneous steel.
Project coordination
Coordination of structural elements with architectural and operational requirements.
Connections
Detailing of connections, including bolts, anchor rods, and welds.
Design updates
Continuous model updates to reflect ongoing design changes.
Model to field
A model-driven and coordination-intensive workflow.
01 / Coordinated model
02 / Fabrication & fieldTechnical complexity
Engineering and detailing challenges across a large-scale, evolving structure.
Large-scale structure
High tonnage and extensive footprint required careful model management and sequencing.
Multi-system integration
Coordination between structural steel, architectural features, and operational systems.
Ongoing design evolution
Frequent updates to avoid clashes with building systems, installations, and miscellaneous elements.
High coordination demand
Alignment between architect, engineer, fabricator, and contractor.
Complex geometry and layouts
Driven by functional requirements of passenger movement and terminal operations.
Our approach
A model-driven and coordination-intensive workflow.
To successfully deliver this project, we focused on a model-driven and coordination-intensive workflow:
- Extensive use of Tekla Structures for accurate and data-rich modeling.
- Continuous coordination with the fabricator and project stakeholders.
- Proactive clash detection and resolution throughout the project lifecycle.
- Adaptation to ongoing design changes while maintaining model integrity.
- Strong emphasis on constructability and fabrication efficiency.
Our experience gained on complex, large-scale projects enabled us to effectively manage evolving conditions and deliver reliable results.
Project animation
The coordinated terminal model in motion.
A model-driven animation communicates the terminal geometry and relationship between the coordinated structural systems.
Project result
A highly coordinated steel model and drawing package.
The project resulted in a highly coordinated steel model and drawing package supporting the successful execution of this major infrastructure development.
- Efficient coordination across multiple disciplines.
- Reduced risk of clashes and field conflicts.
- Accurate and fabrication-ready detailing.
- Support for smooth construction and installation processes.
- Strong collaboration with the project team.