Application of modular construction method to constructing buildings: advantages and barriers

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the advantages and barriers of modular construction method that could facilitate the leverage of this method in practice by effectively overcoming barriers in the process. Three typical modular construction cases: Leishenshan Hospital in Wuhan, media residence hotel for the 2018 Winter Olympic Games in Pyeong-Chang and Global Academy in Hayes, were selected and analysed. Findings show that modular construction method can shorten construction time, facilitate collaborations between stakeholders, enable effective management, save labors and costs, reduce waste, and minimize impacts on local community. The eco-friendly design allows the modular buildings to be recycled or relocated for some other use purposes. The engagement of current engineering technologies upgrades the construction quality and enhances the project management. It is expected that modular design and construction would be an appropriate option to construct multifunctional buildings, particularly for short-term events or in some urgent circumstances. On the other hand, it is suggested that more effective logistic approaches should be used to transport modules to the site and new technologies focusing on flexibly resizing or reshaping modules could be developed. The modular technology is expected to be employed in constructing more permanent buildings by improving the quality and sustainability.