Zhang Rong1 Liang Cong2
1. School of Architecture and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang Province
2. Department of Building Management and Real Estate, Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Abstract: Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a three-dimensional, real-time, and dynamic modeling software that significantly improves productivity throughout both design and construction phases. BIM enables the generation, management, and output of building data across the entire building lifecycle, representing not only a technological breakthrough but also a transformation in building operation methodologies. In China, BIM is still commonly regarded as mere design software, with its use mainly focused on buildings featuring complex or irregular structures, such as stadiums and skyscrapers. However, BIM has substantial potential for civil buildings, which make up the majority of China’s built environment. With affordable housing construction included as part of China’s 12th Five-Year Plan, this paper draws on the Hong Kong Housing Department’s experience in using BIM for public housing projects. We explore the application of BIM in affordable housing construction in Mainland China, focusing on design, construction, and property management stages.
Keywords: Building Information Modeling; Economically Affordable Housing; Application Prospects
The Application of Building Information Modeling in the Construction of Economically Affordable Housing
ZHANG Rong1 LIANG Cong2
1. Institute of Construction Management, College of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
2. Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Abstract: Building Information Modeling (BIM) refers to the process of generating and managing building data throughout the entire lifecycle of a project. BIM typically employs three-dimensional, real-time, and dynamic modeling software to improve efficiency and productivity during both design and construction. BIM is ushering in a revolution in the construction industry, affecting both technologies and processes. Nevertheless, in Mainland China, BIM is still primarily viewed as a type of design software, and its application is mostly limited to stadiums and skyscrapers. In fact, BIM is also highly applicable to residential construction. As the Chinese government places great emphasis on public housing development, this paper presents strategies for applying BIM to the construction of Economically Affordable Housing based on the experience of the Hong Kong Housing Authority. We discuss its application in the design, construction, and property management stages.
Keywords: BIM; Economically Affordable Housing; Application Trend
First author: Zhang Rong (born January 16, 1986), female, from Cangzhou, Hebei, master’s student. Her main research interests are Building Information Modeling, Core Competitiveness of Cost Enterprises, and Information Technology for Construction Enterprises. Email: rongzhangcn@yahoo.com.cn
1. Introduction
1.1 BIM
Building Information Modeling (BIM), known in Chinese as “Building Information Modeling” (Mainland China) or “Building Information Simulation” (Hong Kong), is a process for generating and managing building data throughout the entire building lifecycle. It typically utilizes three-dimensional, real-time, and dynamic modeling software to enhance efficiency in both design and construction stages. The resulting BIM model incorporates geographic information, spatial relationships, building elements, and quality data (BIM Institute, 2009). The rise of BIM has transformed both building technology and the processes of construction.
Even before the term “BIM” was established, researchers engaged in building product modeling, although different terms were used. Examples include Building Product Models (Eastman, 1999) and Multidimensional Models (Eastman and Augenbroe, 1998). BIM is not simply a 3D model or a digital version of paper-based design documents. With BIM, project risks can be reduced, design changes are easier to manage, quality control is strengthened, communication is improved, and advanced analysis of building performance is made possible.
BIM is currently a key focus in both academia and industry, with various definitions and interpretations. According to Aranda Mina and Crawford et al. (2009), understanding of BIM can be divided into three levels:
(1) BIM as application software;
(2) BIM as a digital process for architectural design and documentation;
(3) BIM as a new practice requiring new policies, contract models, and stakeholder relationships.
In China, most people have only a basic, first-level understanding of BIM, with some reaching the second level (nD modeling). The third level, as proposed by Lee, reflects the future direction of BIM development. Marshall-Ponting et al. (2003) developed a research model for the application of 4D BIM in affordable housing construction using Virtual Design and Construction (4D product models; Fischer, 2001; Kunz and Fischer, 2007). The term “BIM” was first popularized by Jerry Laiserin and refers to the digital representation of the construction process, providing a precise means for exchanging and converting information in digital formats.
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