#Hong Kong #Modular Construction #CIMC #City University

Major Milestone in Educational Infrastructure

The City University of Hong Kong (CityU) recently celebrated a significant achievement in educational infrastructure with the inauguration of the Lee Shau Kee Student Residence Village, recognized as the largest modular student residence in the world. Completed ahead of schedule, this innovative project is a testament to advanced construction technologies and sustainable practices, capturing the attention of the global community.

Construction Overview

Constructed in partnership with Gammon Construction Limited and CIMC Modular Building Systems, the Residence Village commenced its journey in 2022 and was completed by the third quarter of 2024. It boasts over 2,000 bed spaces within a substantial area of approximately 48,000 square meters. The Residence features six elegantly designed buildings, comprising 13 to 18 stories, and showcases an array of communal amenities and shared spaces optimized for student life.

Innovative Construction Techniques

The construction of the Residence Village utilized CIMC's cutting-edge volumetric modular construction technology, which emphasizes efficiency by allowing 90% of the construction processes to occur in a controlled factory setting. This process not only expedites build times—achieving completion two years earlier than planned—but also enhances quality control and minimizes disruptions typically associated with traditional construction methods.

Innovative Multi-trade Integrated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MiMEP) technology also played a crucial role in significantly reducing installation time by 50%. Prefabricated assemblies were constructed at CIMC's facility, resulting in streamlined integration upon arrival at the site. Additionally, a remarkable 90% of the aluminum cladding was pre-installed in the factory, enhancing the visual appeal while maintaining practical accessibility for future maintenance.

Addressing Challenges in Urban Development

Hong Kong has long faced challenges related to land scarcity and rising construction demands. The traditional construction methods have resulted in prolonged build times, excessive noise pollution, and significant waste. However, volumetric modular construction has emerged as a potential solution to these pressing issues, paving the way for sustainable urban development.

The Residence Village exemplifies how this building method can substantially minimize construction noise by an impressive 75% and cut waste production by 68%. Furthermore, the project incorporated environmentally friendly materials such as low-carbon concrete and adopted grid-powered facilities to reduce the carbon footprint during construction.

Lessons for the Future

The successful completion of the Lee Shau Kee Student Residence Village marks a notable benchmark not only for the City University but for the construction industry in Hong Kong and beyond. It showcases how modern technology can facilitate sustainable building practices while meeting the evolving needs of urban environments.

As the project sets an example for future educational infrastructure developments, it shines a light on the path toward more efficient, environmentally-conscious construction. With its innovative approach, the Residence Village stands as a model for future projects aiming at achieving a balance between quality, efficiency, and sustainability in urban construction.

In conclusion, the Lee Shau Kee Student Residence Village provides a glimpse into the future of educational infrastructure. It is an essential leap towards addressing the urgent needs of urban students while promoting sustainable practices in construction. It also offers vital insights for similar projects worldwide, signaling a shift towards smarter, greener, and more efficient building solutions.