Implementing modular integrated construction in high-rise high-density cities: perspectives in Hong Kong

ABSTRACT

Modular construction has been widely promoted with numerous benefits, but the promotion has largely been for low- to medium-rise buildings. The implementation of high-rise modular buildings in high-density cities remains limited. This paper aims to investigate modular adoption in high-rise high-density cities by examining drivers, constraints and strategies with the case of modular integrated construction in Hong Kong. The research was carried out through a literature review, expert interviews and a questionnaire survey with key stakeholders. The most important drivers were identified to be faster construction and shortened project duration, financial incentives, better quality control, policy initiative and promotion and improved workers’ well-being. The most significant constraints were found to be over-stringent regulations, limited codes and standards, limited capable suppliers and contractors, logistics challenges and loss of saleable areas. The most important success strategies were identified relating to financial incentives, standards and codes, technical solutions, transport regulations and prioritized adoption in public housing. A systems framework is proposed to address the complexity of modular adoption within social, technological, economic, supply chain and regulatory contexts. The findings should help accelerate the adoption of modular methods in high-rise high-density cities and contribute a systematic approach to informing future research into modular construction.

KEYWORDS:

• Modular integrated construction
• off-site construction
• modular construction
• socio-technical system
• high-rise construction

Acknowledgements

The authors acknowledge many organizations and individuals for their participation and support for this research. The interviews and questionnaire survey were undertaken following the ethics approval from the Human Research Ethics Committee of the University of Hong Kong.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by the Strategic Public Policy Research Funding Scheme [Project Number: S2019.A8.013.19S] from the Policy Innovation and Co-ordination Office of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and by the Construction Industry Council [Project No.: 260910166].