The Greenland Jinghu Century City Commercial Complex in Wuhu City, Anhui Province, leverages BIM technology to highlight its unique features and integrate both past and present aspects of the building. Through a “one-click query” function, BIM not only enhances construction efficiency but also helps prevent errors. The building has undergone multiple renovations, with walls demolished and holes drilled before use—yet all this can be managed easily on a standard computer, allowing users to quickly grasp the building’s details at a glance.
For example, pipelines and elevators, which have reached their maintenance period and are distributed across various locations, can be effortlessly identified by simply navigating the model with a mouse. This capability allows maintenance teams to anticipate and resolve issues before they arise.
According to a representative from China Railway Times Architectural Design Institute, “The so-called BIM 3D design model is like constructing a house on a computer. It reveals everything from the overall building structure down to individual screws with clear visibility.” Wuhu City is the first in Anhui Province to adopt this cutting-edge technology in architectural design.
Traditionally, architectural design relies on two-dimensional software, where design data often lack correlation. This makes it challenging to address complex equipment pipelines and the high net height requirements typical of large commercial complexes. Such challenges often lead to construction difficulties, frequent on-site rework, and poor cost control.
“BIM technology integrates all design data into a cohesive information system, effectively solving these issues,” the institute’s representative explained. Before construction begins, specialists in structural engineering, water supply and drainage, electrical systems, HVAC, and others collaborate to establish a comprehensive 3D model. This allows decision-makers to identify potential issues from any angle and position, enabling the development of the most reasonable and scientific construction plans.
During construction, the 3D model supports real-time adjustments to plans, elevations, and sections. This flexibility ensures that pipeline placements and spatial layouts are both practical and aesthetically pleasing, without compromising other building components. Additionally, BIM technology provides accurate tracking of materials and equipment usage, helping to control project costs effectively.
BIM application is just one step forward for Wuhu’s construction industry. The city is advancing towards intelligent manufacturing and digital innovation, embodying a vision of continuous progress likened to “small rivers flowing into the ocean” or the “tip of the iceberg.”
For instance, the Dongfang Hongjun Community in the city’s east relies on ground source heat pump technology to maintain a constant temperature year-round. The Longhu office building in Sanshan District incorporates two innovative technologies: solar photovoltaic thermal systems and ground source heat pumps. Across all construction sites, the Wuhu City Construction Project Full-Process Supervision and Management Interactive Information System employs GIS, GPS, video surveillance, 3G connectivity, facial recognition attendance, ID card verification, and data exchange to prevent illegal construction activities from evading legal oversight.
This culture of innovation has unleashed vast potential within Jiangcheng’s architectural field, fostering vibrancy and growth.
Emphasizing innovation and excellence has become a cornerstone for construction enterprises in Wuhu City to solidify their market presence and core competitiveness. For example, China Railway Times Architectural Design Institute has applied for 13 patents, including 6 utility model patents and 2 software copyrights registered with the national intellectual property authorities. Their inventions are widely used in areas such as building insulation, protection, materials, and water supply and drainage systems.
By 2014, the institute had earned 31 awards recognizing outstanding design, surveying, and technological achievements. Notably, the Chunshuiwan Affordable Housing Project in the Economic Development Zone received the Third Prize of the National Excellent Design Special Award for Affordable Housing. Meanwhile, the research on seismic performance of buildings on soft soil foundations won the First Prize for Excellent Architectural Engineering Design in Anhui Province.
“This wave of innovation has injected vitality into Wuhu’s construction market, securing significant market share and numerous honors for enterprises,” the institute’s representative stated confidently, expressing optimism for the city’s construction industry future.
Innovation-driven growth is now the engine propelling the transformation and upgrade of Jiangcheng’s construction industry. In 2015, Wuhu was designated as a comprehensive pilot city for construction industry modernization in Anhui Province. Locally based Anhui Hangxiao Steel Structure Co., Ltd. and Wuhu Keyi Residential Equipment Co., Ltd. were named demonstration bases for this modernization, leading the city’s shift toward industrialized and modern construction practices.
Simultaneously, Wuhu plans to promote industrial clusters centered on construction industry modernization. By 2017, the city aims to establish at least three modern demonstration bases and four leading enterprises in this field. The products and components produced by these modern enterprises will not only satisfy local demand but also serve surrounding cities.
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