Housing Information Modelling for BIM-embedded Housing Refurbishment

Abstract

The aim of this research is to identify BIM input datasets within a BIM-embedded housing refurbishment process and enabling construction professionals to utilize BIM as an information management platform for housing refurbishment projects. A hypothetical case study using BIM tools for a housing refurbishment project is adopted to identify BIM input datasets to create a housing information model within a BIM system. Reliability of the research outcome is examined by conducting a comparative analysis between existing and simulated research outcomes. This research identifies essential BIM input datasets during the early design phase. The importance of a well-integrated housing information model containing accurate as-built condition, cost and thermal performance information is essential to utilize BIM for housing refurbishment. BIM can be feasible for housing refurbishment when an information enriched housing information model is constructed. Furthermore, the capability of BIM that can enable key project stakeholders to determine the most affordable refurbishment solution among various alternatives is identified since BIM can provide reliable cost estimations and thermal performance of refurbishment alternatives at the early design stage. The examined refurbishment processes and input datasets are confined to the early design phases since BIM use for housing refurbishment is limited. This research will contribute to utilize BIM for housing refurbishment by providing essential BIM input datasets and BIM-embedded refurbishment processes. This research reveals primary housing information datasets and BIM-embedded refurbishment processes at the early design phase.