Housing information modelling for BIM-embedded housing refurbishment

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to identify building information modelling (BIM) input data sets within a BIM-embedded housing refurbishment process and enable construction professionals to use BIM as an information management platform for housing refurbishment projects.Design/methodology/approachA hypothetical case study using BIM tools for a housing refurbishment project is adopted to identify BIM input data sets 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.FindingsThis research identifies essential BIM input data sets 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 use 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 as BIM can provide reliable cost estimations and thermal performance of refurbishment alternatives at the early design stage.Research limitations/implicationsThe examined refurbishment processes and input data sets are confined to the early design phases as BIM use for housing refurbishment is limited.Practical implicationsThis research will contribute to use BIM for housing refurbishment by providing essential BIM input data sets and BIM-embedded refurbishment processes.Originality/valueThis research reveals primary housing information data sets and BIM-embedded refurbishment processes at the early design phase.