Modular integrated construction in Hong Kong : evaluation of modular transitional housings

Abstract

Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) is an emerging construction technology in Hong Kong introduced by the Government in 2017 with the primary objective of improving construction time and cost performance, enhancing project safety and productivity, and addressing the prevailing problems in the local construction industry such as labour shortage. The Government has enthusiastically promoted this construction method, and it is widely adopted in government, institutions and community buildings, with transitional housing being one of the prevalent applications. This dissertation aims to extend the current research by investigating the use of MiC in modular transitional housing, with the objectives of summarising the design and construction consideration factors in these projects and identifying the MiC-related difficulties encountered. The ultimate goal is to provide recommendations for the advancement of MiC in Hong Kong. Desk research, interviews and case studies are applied to achieve the different research objectives. The research process commences with desk research, where the concept of MiC, its benefits, limitations and application in Hong Kong are reviewed. Seven interviews have been conducted with local construction professionals and representatives from non-governmental organisations to serve as the primary method of collecting qualitative data on the topic. The case studies on two modular transitional housing projects, Nam Cheong 220 and Yip Shing 6, are analysed to support the interview findings. Modular transitional housings, being a type of low-rise MiC projects aimed for speedy construction and intended for short-term usage, share similar design and construction considerations as other MiC projects. Design considerations include feasibility and efficiency in design and construction, as well as compliance with building performance requirements. For construction, the major considerations are logistics constraints such as limitations in site areas, transportation routes and restrictions on vehicle loads. Despite some unique challenges, common difficulties in MiC projects are predominant in transitional housing developments, such as limitations in modular design, technical capability of the industry, building approval systems and local site constraints. Multiple recommendations have been proposed to facilitate the application of MiC in local construction projects and amplify its advantages. Transitional housing projects benefit the application of MiC in Hong Kong as they enhance public knowledge and acceptance, accumulate experience and improve the industry's capabilities. Although this study on modular transitional housing cannot produce innovative research outcome for further research on MiC, it is believed that they can provide useful references for future MiC projects, particularly for low-rise temporary modular buildings. Potential directions for future research have also been recommended for both modular transitional housing projects and the application of MiC.