The Application and Development of Historical Building Information Modeling in Chinese Architectural Heritage: Sustainability Assessment and Prospects

Abstract

Historical Building Information Modeling is a digital modeling technology applied to cultural heritage buildings. It has made remarkable progress in aspects such as data integration and management, digital protection of historical buildings, parametric and semantic modeling, multi-source data fusion, and interdisciplinary cooperation platforms. However, the sustainability of this technology has not been explored yet. This paper analyzes nearly a hundred related research achievements between 2010 and 2024 and finds that there is not only a lack of a review of the development and application of Historical Building Information Modeling (HBIM) technology in China, but also a serious shortage of discussions and explorations regarding its sustainability. Therefore, taking the development and application of Historical Building Information Modeling technology in China as the research scope, using relevant practical projects and research achievements in China, and combining a small number of the latest foreign achievements as cases, centering around the research question of the sustainability of Historical Building Information Modeling, this paper adopts the methods of review research and comparative research. It sorts out four development directions and the faced dilemmas in the development process of Historical Building Information Modeling in China and puts forward constructive suggestions for sustainable development, as well as a set of theoretical paths for the sustainability of HBIM technology based on Revit (version 23.0.1.318), Dynamo (version 2.17), Python (version 3.12.1) (Open 3D v0.18 and PointNet++), Network Attached Storage, and cloud-based collaboration platforms. The purpose is to provide a referable path for the sustainable development of Historical Building Information Modeling technology in China.

1. Introduction

The concept of sustainable development was initially put forward in 1987 in the report “Our Common Future” by the World Commission on Environment and Development. It generally emphasizes the coordinated development of the three dimensions of economy, society, and environment, and pursues a development model that can meet the needs of the current generation without harming the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This means that when carrying out various activities and making decisions, we need to comprehensively consider the factors of these three dimensions to ensure that they promote and support each other instead of conflicting with one another [1].

On 2 August 2015, the United Nations also released the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which standardized and defined sustainability from different perspectives and fields. Goal 11 clearly states, “Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable”, and 11.4 also emphasizes, “Intensify efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage”. However, there is no more constructive advice on how to achieve the sustainable protection of heritage [2].

On 1 June 2012, the Chinese government also released the “National Report on Sustainable Development of the People’s Republic of China”, which introduced the overall situation of China’s sustainable development and focused on several aspects such as the economic structure, development mode, individual development, social progress, sustainable progress of resources, ecological environment protection, construction of sustainable development, and international cooperation. Among them, there are no suggestions or opinions on the “sustainability” of cultural and natural heritage in the “Capacity Building for Sustainable Development”. Only the “Opinions on Strengthening the Protection and Inheritance of Historical and Cultural Heritage in Urban and Rural Construction” put forward relevant protection requirements [3].

In general, this paper finds that the concept of “sustainability” has long been proposed and has given important instructions for the sustainable development of cultural and natural heritage. In China’s “sustainable” development, there are no clear provisions and regulations regarding the sustainable development of architectural heritage. More often, the concept of “green buildings” is used as a substitute. This is also the reason why the sustainable development of architectural heritage is often ignored. In fact, there is an interdependent and mutually promoting relationship among heritage, economy, society, and the environment. For example, in urban renewal, the renovation and upgrading of old buildings not only preserve the local historical memories but also play an important role in the transformation of the contemporary economic society and the creation of “local” spaces, bringing economic benefits (cultural tourism), local identity, and resource conservation [4,5,6]. Similarly, if we want to achieve the sustainable development of architectural heritage in terms of economy, society, and environment, protecting the “authenticity” and “integrity” of heritage information and providing “heritage information services” are necessary key links [7,8]. And, one of the most effective ways to realize the informatization of surveying and mapping and recording of heritage, as well as to provide information management services throughout the whole process of heritage, is HBIM (Historical Building Information Modeling) technology. It plays an important role in aspects such as archival records and documents, cooperation with people from different professional backgrounds, cross-referencing historical records, original designs, analysis of building evolution, recording of material sources, analysis of construction techniques, history of ownership and use, and cultural and historical backgrounds [9]. Based on the achievements that the existing HBIM technology can produce, HBIM can provide impetus for sustainable development.

Overall, based on the above reports and standards (see Figure 1), the forms of sustainability can be defined and categorized into five major types: environmental sustainability, economic sustainability, social sustainability, cultural sustainability, and technological sustainability. The aspects most directly related to HBIM are cultural sustainability and technological sustainability. Among them, the purpose of cultural sustainability is to protect, inherit, and develop cultural resources, ensuring the diversity, continuity, and vitality of culture. It encompasses the protection and inheritance of tangible cultural heritage (such as historical buildings and cultural relics) and intangible cultural heritage (such as traditional crafts, folk cultures, and languages), encourages cultural innovation, and promotes the coordinated development of culture with society, economy, and the environment. For example, protecting and restoring historical buildings, inheriting traditional handicrafts to make them thrive in modern society, and at the same time promoting the development of the cultural and creative industry, combining traditional culture with modern technology and art to create new cultural values. Thirdly, technological sustainability mainly focuses on the research, development, application, and promotion of technologies, ensuring that they meet current needs without negatively affecting future development. This requires technologies to be scalable, compatible, and environmentally friendly, able to adapt to the changes in social development and promote the sustainability of other fields. For instance, the development of green building technologies can reduce the environmental impact of buildings by improving energy efficiency and using environmentally friendly building materials, while enhancing the comfort and functionality of buildings, thus promoting the sustainable development of the construction industry. The above discussion also reflects two characteristics of HBIM technology, namely its association with cultural sustainability and technical sustainability (see Figure 2 and Figure 3).

It is not difficult to see that the HBIM technology not only conforms to the concepts and standards of the World Commission on Environment and Development and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) but also meets the development needs and layouts of the Chinese government and universities in the aspects of economy, education, culture, and tourism. It can be said that HBIM is directly related to cultural and technological sustainability, and the two promote each other, so as to improve the utilization rate of architectural heritage (IPD). However, many domestic Chinese studies have shown that the current sustainability of HBIM has not been valued by Chinese scholars, nor has it been discussed at the levels of policy, process, technology, and socioculture.

Therefore, in order to solve the above problems and bridge the gap in the understanding of HBIM between China and other countries, the research scope of this paper mainly focuses on the field of HBIM in China. It reviews the current development status of this technology in the Chinese academic community, attempts to explore the potential of achieving the “sustainability” of HBIM at the cultural and technological levels in China, as well as the existing development problems. The aim is to bridge the “limitations” in the understanding between HBIM and sustainability and put forward constructive, practical paths and suggestions for the sustainable development of HBIM technology in China. Its research value lies in providing a brand new perspective for development and research, and promoting domestic Chinese scholars to discuss the sociocultural and technological sustainability of HBIM technology.

Therefore, in order to provide a new perspective, path, and future direction, we need to address the following questions:

• What is the current development status of HBIM in China? What are the technical problems and trends?
• Has the cultural and technological sustainability of HBIM been emphasized and discussed/studied?
• Are there sustainable methods and paths for HBIM to carry out related work?

2. Research Methods and Framework

This paper adopts a quantitative research method (see Figure 4), focusing on the current situation and sustainable development of building energy-saving technology in China. It selects nearly 100 relevant research achievements in China from 2010 to 2024, mainly including papers retrieved through SSCI, SCI, EI, etc. These papers are from high-impact-factor journals such as Automation in Construction, Journal of Cultural Heritage, Journal of Building Engineering, Results in Engineering, as well as Chinese core journals within the professional scope (with the number of paper citations ranging from 50 to 700), and master’s and doctoral theses from universities under China’s “Project 985”, “Project 211”, and “Double First-Class” construction programs. In this way, the peer review quality of the selected literature is ensured, and it can reflect the latest progress and application of this technology. Other journals are all used as reference data for formative research to serve as evidence.

The main methods used in this paper are the literature review method and the comparative research method. The literature review method is a widely used approach in academic research. It systematically collects, organizes, analyzes, and synthesizes existing literature on a specific topic to understand the research status, development trends, and existing problems in the research direction of that topic (this paper does not use Citespace. The main reasons are that it overly relies on algorithms, and the automatically clustered labels may deviate from the actual research topic, still requiring manual verification. For example, the labels generated by the LLR algorithm may be obscure or inaccurate, and it cannot objectively grasp trends; its text analysis is weak, focusing on bibliometrics and lacking in-depth semantic analysis of text content, making it difficult to capture the research connotation; and its dynamic tracking is insufficient. Although it supports time slicing, its continuous explanation of the evolution of research hotspots is weak, and it needs to be combined with other tools such as VOSviewer 1.6.20 or manual reviews). By using this method, through reading, analysis, organization, and classification, this paper deeply understands the development status and trends of HBIM in China and discovers the current development directions and problems of HBIM in China.

The comparative research method is a method of examining two or more related things according to certain criteria and topics, looking for their similarities and differences, and exploring the laws of things’ development. Through comparison, it is possible to more clearly understand the essential characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of things, as well as the interrelationships between different things, so as to better make decisions. By combining the latest foreign HBIM literature and comparing it with the current situation of HBIM in China, this paper identifies the development gaps between them, draws on the technologies in relevant advanced foreign research cases, as well as the current trends in artificial intelligence, providing a reference basis and practical path for research on the sustainability of HBIM in China.

3. An Overview of the Application of HBIM in the Field of Chinese Architectural Heritage

In 2009, Maurice Murphy from the University of Dublin in Ireland first proposed the concept of HBIM. In the same year, the Design and Research Institute of Tsinghua University and the Institute of Cultural Heritage Conservation in China also put forward “historic/heritage building information model” (HBIM) technology, defining HBIM as an information management tool in the life cycle of historical buildings with a three-dimensional model. Based on numerous HBIM cases and practices, Professor Cong Wu from Tianjin University proposed that a cross-platform information surveying and recording system with HBIM as the core technology could be established to provide systematic, practical, and convenient information services for all aspects of heritage research, protection, management, display, and utilization. He also predictively proposed that with the development of the combination of architectural heritage with knowledge base construction, the Internet of Things, big data, 3D printing, digital construction, virtual reality, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence, the digital and information development of architectural heritage will move toward an intelligent direction. Architectural heritage will also become intelligent buildings that are perceptive, responsive, and audience-friendly [9,10]. This statement can be said to cover the main development directions of HBIM and its possible “extensions”, providing a predictable general direction for the development of HBIM in China.

In terms of the number of published papers, the current development and research of HBIM in China have gone through many twists and turns, but overall, it shows an upward trend. There are still about 20 articles published in 2025 (see Figure 5). During the period from 2010 to 2025, Tianjin University conducted in-depth research on HBIM and the application of BIM in the field of heritage (see Figure 6), which mainly benefits from two aspects. First, Tianjin University has a solid foundation in the surveying and mapping research of architectural heritage. Since the research, teaching, and practical activities of the surveying and mapping of ancient buildings carried out in 1941, it has never been interrupted for more than 70 years and has formed an excellent tradition. The surveying and mapping research and projects of architectural heritage carried out by this university cover the whole country, and it has compiled the Technical Specification for the Surveying and Mapping of Cultural Relic Buildings, a standard in China’s cultural relics industry, and the textbook Surveying and Mapping of Ancient Buildings, which is a national general higher education textbook for the “10th Five-Year Plan” period in China. In addition, the research team of this university has started to carry out application research of HBIM technology in the field of heritage protection since 2009, including HBIM work in the Forbidden City, Jiayuguan, Yushu, Qufu, and other places. Both teachers and postgraduate students have published relatively rich research achievements. Second, the School of Architecture of Tianjin University has key scientific research bases of the National Cultural Heritage Administration for the surveying and mapping research of cultural relic buildings (Tianjin University is the only university that has it), such as the Laboratory of Spatial Humanities and Place Computing, the Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Culture for Information Technology of Architectural Cultural Heritage Inheritance, and the Key Scientific Research Base of the National Cultural Heritage Administration for the Surface Monitoring, Analysis, and Research of Cultural Relics. These are not available in all universities. In addition, the above institutions also have a large HBIM scientific research team, as well as master’s and doctoral students in this research direction. Therefore, in terms of the number of published papers, research depth, and the quality of achievements, it is obviously superior to other universities. In contrast, the achievements of other universities in the surveying and mapping of cultural relics are relatively weak, and they do not have the platforms like Tianjin University. In this section, by analyzing the latest research achievements related to HBIM in China, they are roughly divided into four aspects, and a summary and review will be carried out for each aspect one by one.

3.1. Building Heritage Information Models and Visualization Display

China’s research on HBIM started and developed later than that in foreign countries. However, in recent years, many universities and scientific research institutions in China have been actively conducting research on HBIM technology and have promoted continuous innovation of this technology in both theory and practice. Based on the journal papers published during the period from 2015 to 2024, most of the research and development of HBIM in China are still in the initial stage of transitioning from “digital surveying and mapping” to “information-based surveying and mapping”; that is, by using surveying and mapping data and point cloud data to build HBIM models and databases. Some studies even remain directly in the digital surveying and mapping stage. Nevertheless, it is undeniable that the vast majority of the research is still limited to model display.

For example, Wang Zhuonan and Gao Min’s research focused on the protection and research of Liao Dynasty brick pagodas based on digital technology. They expounded on the general situation and early research of Liao Dynasty brick pagodas and pointed out the advantages of digital technology in the field of ancient architecture protection. Regarding application key points, they emphasized that 3D laser scanning, and UAV oblique photogrammetry technology should be selected and reasonably combined as surveying and mapping instruments while also controlling data accuracy. In specific applications, digital technology can be used for the research of the tower body proportion and the shape of detailed components and can also be used to observe the mathematical relationships and damage conditions of Wu’anzhou Pagoda [11].

Another example is that Sun Xiangwang, based on HBIM and knowledge ontology technology, proposed the technical route for establishing the HBIM of Zhanyuan Garden. He constructed the knowledge ontology and semantic library framework for garden information preservation and achieved an interaction with HBIM. This provided a comprehensive and systematic solution for the information preservation of Jiangnan gardens, standardized the digital modeling process standards, improved the levels of information management and knowledge reuse, and promoted the digital and intelligent development of garden research [12].

Han Sai’s research, taking the survey project of the duty rooms in Yangxin Hall of the Forbidden City as an example, explored the expression of architectural heritage survey information results based on HBIM. HBIM technology can effectively integrate, store, and manage survey information to meet the requirements of visualization, specialization, and integration. This research created a damage keyword dictionary and adopted two-parameter control to solve the problems of the standardization and automation of survey information expression. Through the application of shadow primitives, the visual expression of the relationships between components, local damage, and overall unit information was achieved. Practice has proved that HBIM technology is feasible in survey work and provides a new technical means for architectural heritage protection work [13,14].

Lai Yujing and Xia Tian’s research, taking the Xiangdian Hall in Qufu as an example, explored the construction of an architectural heritage information database based on HBIM. HBIM technology has advantages such as comprehensive and convenient information recording, integrity and authenticity, associated dynamics, and the ability to extend to 5D simulation. In the research of Xiangdian Hall in Qufu, an information database was constructed through data collection, classification, numbering, model creation, and the entry of detailed information. This database contains various types of information, facilitating the research, repair, and protection of architectural heritage [15].

E Guangshu’s research, taking the architectural heritage in Taipingjiao, Qingdao as an example, explored the application of HBIM under the concept of preventive protection. The model definition level was clarified, the Revit platform and suitable building types were selected, and the family library and model were constructed. The result expression utilized included thematic drawings and 3D model expressions, which can be used for structural analysis, monitoring, and information management. This research provided a useful reference for the preventive protection of architectural heritage [16].

Zhang Jiahao used informatized surveying and mapping technology, HBIM technology, and software such as Trimble RealWorks (version 12.4), DJI Terra (version 4.1.0), and RealViewer (version 3.11) to process point clouds, and constructed the component family library and HBIM building information models of the architectural heritages of Haicang Juren Di in Xiamen and Anxi Tea Factory in Quanzhou. Based on HBIM, the historical information and current damage information of Juren Di were recorded, managed, and visually analyzed. Its prominent feature is the phased modeling construction by recording the phased information of repair construction based on secondary-developed plugins. The research has an exploratory significance for the technical route of multi-source point cloud data fusion, proposed component information classification and coding methods, and carried out classification planning, naming, coding, and parametric design. It provided a standardized information management method for the digital protection of traditional Minnan large-style houses [17,18,19]. Scholars with similar research types include Niu Pengtao and Tian Jiang [20], Yang Lin [21], Zhang Jingwei [22], Zhang Enming [23], Li Rui [24], Li Wenqiang [25], Li Weirong [26], Chen Ye [27], and so on.

Ji Huanqun, taking the Rouyuan Tower in Jiayuguan, a traditional building in the Hexi Corridor during the Ming and Qing dynasties, as an example, aiming at the problems of low efficiency in most modeling work, illogical model construction operations, and difficult-to-unify work processes, reconstructed the construction knowledge graph, divided the large-scale wooden frame units, analyzed the construction types, and combined theoretical results with modeling development to innovate the research perspective and modeling method, improving the modeling efficiency and quality of the large-scale wooden structure parts [28].

Wang Lingxu et al., taking the restoration project of Jiangsu Road Church in Qingdao as an example, applied BIM technology to the entire process of the church restoration. They proposed the protection idea of tracking the restoration process with a data model, emphasizing the dynamic update and reverse-assisting role of building information in the restoration process, and innovating data translation, integration, and digital model applications; that is, physical models and virtual models. This improved the scientificity and accuracy of ancient building restoration and expanded the application field of digital models [29].

Wang Licai explored the application of HBIM technology in the relocation plan and construction stages of relocated construction projects. In the plan stage, HBIM technology was utilized to build information models, locate components, simulate the environment, and display the plans. In the construction stage, it was applied to construction site layout, quantity calculation, information recording, and later-stage maintenance. Through the analysis of the process and the application of HBIM technology, this paper provided a new approach to solving the problems in the relocated construction of Huizhou traditional dwellings. It also helped relevant practitioners recognize the advantages of HBIM technology and promoted the protection and development of traditional dwellings [30].

In addition, many scholars have made contributions in this regard. For example, Zhang Wenjing [31], Zhu Ning [32], Zhu Lei [33], Shi Yue [34], Shi Ruoming [35], Li Shujing [36], Li Lijuan [37], Du Xin [38], Zhou Chengchuanqi [39], Xing Liang [40], Tong Qiaohui [41,42,43], Liu Yingxiang [44], Guan Xian [45], Chang Lei [46], Wang Zhixin [47], Shi Liwen [48], Meng Hui [49], Xun Haowei [50], Ma Weikang [51], Fu Jinyu [52], Wang Hechi [53], Du Shihu [54], Wang He [55], Liang Yi [56], Jia Zheng [57], Gui Yuhuan [58], Jing Songfeng [59], Tao Ye [60], etc. These scholars have carried out work similar to that of the previously mentioned scholars, so it is not necessary to elaborate on each of them here.

3.2. Four Major Directions of HBIM Practice and Application

In addition to the explorations and practices of HBIM carried out by the above-mentioned scholars and experts for different types of architectural heritage, the current frontiers of HBIM research in China also include the following major directions. These include the automatic BIM modeling algorithm and the automated route, parametric and procedural modeling, multi-dimensional extended applications of HBIM, and the establishment and management of collaborative platforms.

3.2.1. In the Aspect of Automatic Modeling Algorithms and Automated Routes

First, in terms of HBIM automatic modeling algorithms and automated routes, several scholars are the most representative. For example, Sun Zhuqing, Zhang Dabao, and others took the main hall of a temple in Guangdong Province as the research object to explore a new practice of automatically converting point cloud data into BIM models. They proposed an automatic BIM modeling algorithm based on architectural grammar and an automated roadmap and verified the feasibility of the algorithm. This research improved the modeling efficiency of historical buildings, provided new technical means for digital protection, clarified the development direction and stage goals of automatic BIM modeling, and promoted its application in the construction industry [61].

Another example is Huo Pengpeng. For the roof decorative components of Ming and Qing official-style buildings (such as the Qianqing Palace and the Jiaotai Hall in the Forbidden City), she used Context Capture to automatically generate a rough model of the decorative components. Then, she applied the 3DS Max 3D modeling software (version 2024.2)and referred to the design details listed in the books and manuscripts of roof decorative components of Ming and Qing official-style buildings to refine the rough 3D model. Finally, she reconstructed decorative components with good expressions, established a template library of roof decorative components by building 3D models, and achieved high-efficiency and high-precision 3D reconstruction of Ming and Qing official-style buildings. She also proposed a registration method based on image and point cloud data to realize the automatic invocation of the template library [62].

Moreover, Wu Rui and others took the large wooden structure of the Holy Mother Hall in Jinci Temple, Shanxi Province, as the main experimental object to study the processing of its 3D point cloud data and the construction and reasoning of knowledge graphs. They proposed an automatic HBIM generation method based on knowledge-graph construction and reasoning technology, which enabled the rapid and accurate construction of historical building models. Additionally, they solved the problems of data missing, uneven density, and data anomalies when obtaining 3D point cloud data of historical buildings using lidar and oblique photogrammetry technology, as well as the problem that the 3D models generated by point cloud fitting were non-disassemblable [63].

3.2.2. In the Aspect of Parametric and Procedural Modeling

Secondly, there are only a small number of scholars conducting research on HBIM at the level of parametric and procedural modeling. For example, Feng Xu proposed a new method for modeling the wooden frames of historical buildings in HBIM based on carpentry’s architectural rules. Through the research on the drum towers in the Pingtan River Basin of Hunan, carpentry’s building rules were obtained, and the rapid generation of wooden frame models was achieved by using procedural modeling. This method can generate models similar to actual buildings according to simple constraints, reducing the workload of manual modeling and improving the modeling efficiency. Although there are some differences in model accuracy, it can generally meet the requirements of HBIM [64].

Another example is that Yang Hongji and others proposed an innovative parametric and computational modeling method based on the HBIM technical process for the large wooden frames of traditional Minnan residences. They innovated the geometric description of components and built a cloud-based display platform, which improved the efficiency and accuracy of modeling and provided a new path for the informatized protection of traditional residences [65].

Wang Xi is a scholar who has conducted in-depth research in this field. He proposed a method for generating regular axes from irregular column grids through a genetic algorithm and a method for realizing the synergy between metadata and meta-models through algorithmic modeling. That is, he reconstructed the tile model in Grasshopper, generated IFC models and Cypher statements through algorithm clusters, and constructed a graph database [66,67,68].

3.2.3. In the Aspect of Multi-Dimensional Extended Applications

Thirdly, in terms of the multi-dimensional extended application of HBIM, the currently more mainstream approaches for cross-platform application, data exchange, and virtual display include HBIM+GIS (Geographic Information System), HBIM+VR (virtual reality), HBIM+3D, HBIM+MR (Mixed Reality), etc. These are also the main means of display and interaction for a large number of teams and scholars after they have completed the basic “information-based modeling”.

For example, Fang Dongya took the main building of Tianjin Foreign Studies University as an example to explore the applicability of BIM technology, elaborated on the process of constructing an information model, and analyzed the cooperation methods with other technologies, such as BIM + GIS, BIM + VR, and BIM + 3D scanning [69].

Shi Yilin explored the advantages of the BIM + VR technology in response to the problems faced by the renovation of China’s current industrial heritage, such as chaotic data management, lack of visual expression, and difficulties in collaborative design. He established an information model platform and applied it to the renovation project of the Traditional Architecture Museum at Inner Mongolia University of Technology. Additionally, during the stages of scheme design, construction drawing design, and optimization and adjustment, the BIM + VR technology achieved the informatization of data, the high efficiency of collaborative design, and the instant synchronization of information. This improved the overall design level and the advancement efficiency of the project, providing a new technical path and practical reference for the renovation of industrial heritage [70]. The article mentions the viewpoints that collaborative design and information synchronization are significant for sustainable development, yet it does not conduct in-depth discussions and research on these two aspects. Shang Dunjiang [71,72] also adopted BIM + VR technology. Moreover, he explored the combinations of BIM with the Internet and BIM + MR.

Li Yuan’s research analyzed the protection of architectural cultural heritage based on the BIM + concept, mainly including data collection of HBIM, integration with GIS, and construction of virtual scenes with VR. Valuable perspectives on the future development directions of HBIM were put forward, including user behavior analysis, the monitoring of changes in the building environment, engineering construction management, and the operation of intelligent museums [73].

Liu Niancheng took the corners of Song Dynasty official-style buildings as the research object. Based on the Yingzao Fashi (Treatise on Architectural Methods), the parametric logic of its large wooden structure system was sorted out. The Revit–Dynamo platform was used to create a component family library. Not only was parametric modeling achieved and numerical control construction explored, but also a digital chain system from the parametric system to parametric modeling was established [74].

3.2.4. In the Aspect of Construction and Management of Collaborative Platforms

Finally, in terms of the construction and management of collaborative platforms, for example, Zhang Kehan et al. [75] analyzed the application status of the HBIM concept in architectural heritage protection projects. They pointed out that it has rich applications in information collection, integration, and collaborative cooperation, but relatively fewer applications in design, management, construction, and other aspects. Taking the Gulangyu Island Bagua Tower protection project as a case, this study constructed an application strategy framework for the HBIM concept, covering a basic data platform, a design management platform, a construction management platform, and a result display platform, and sorted out the application strategies and work functions of each participating team at different stages. It can be said that such a platform has a certain sense of sustainability, reducing the consumption of human and material resources and improving the efficiency of heritage protection and renewal.

Another example is that Li Ling [76] proposed an HBIM system architecture suitable for ancient buildings and built a health monitoring platform for ancient buildings based on this. On the basis of the HBIM 3D model, an IFC model of the structural damage of ancient buildings was constructed, and the overall health status of ancient buildings was evaluated through the data fusion technology of multi-source sensors. Scholar Xu Mu [77] also achieved preventive monitoring and protection based on the BIM platform, just like others.

Xu Chaoran explored the sustainable recording and protection of the Zangniang Pagoda and Sangzhou Temple in China using HBIM technology. Requirements for HBIM sustainable recording methods and the functional framework of the HBIM + Bentley + NAS sustainable information recording and management platform were proposed [78], enabling a way for multiple teams or types of work to update the information model in real time. Xu Jianzhuo proposed constructing an accessible resource database based on HBIM to promote public participation and combining digital twins and deep learning with HBIM to improve the accuracy and efficiency of modeling [10]. It can be said that this direction is the path along which the sustainability of HBIM can be most easily achieved.

In general, currently in China, few scholars and teams discuss the issue of the “sustainability” of HBIM in terms of practice and application. Only a few scholars, such as Zhang Kehan, Li Ling, Xu Chaoran, and Xu Jianzhuo, have put forward some insights and approaches regarding the construction of the “collaborative platform” with sustainable potential.

4. Problems of HBIM Technology in China in Terms of “Sustainability”

Combined with the above literature review, it is not difficult to find that although many domestic teams and scholars in China have discussed research objects such as gardens, traditional ancient buildings, and industrial heritage, few of them actually consider issues related to the sustainability of HBIM. That is, few people pay attention to the issues of HBIM in terms of cultural sustainability and technological sustainability. Only some people explore relevant topics in directions with sustainable potential, such as collaborative cooperation, management platforms, and automated modeling.

In addition, we can also find some clues from the National Standard of the People’s Republic of China, “Design Delivery Standard for Building Information Modeling” (GB/T 51301-2018, implemented in 2019) (

Table 1. Building information modeling design delivery standard.

Building Information Modeling Design Delivery Standard
Grade	Code	Requirements
Level 1.0 model refinement	LOD1.0	Project-level model unit (carrying project, sub-project, or local building information)
Level 2.0 model refinement	LOD2.0	Function-level model unit (carrying module or space information of complete functions)
Level 3.0 model refinement	LOD3.0	Component-level model unit (carrying single component or product information)
Level 4.0 model refinement	LOD4.0	Part-level model unit (carries part information belonging to the assembly)
Level 1 geometric expression accuracy	G1	Geometric expression accuracy that meets the needs of two-dimensional or symbolic recognition
Level 2 geometric expression accuracy	G2	Geometric expression accuracy that meets the needs of rough recognition, such as space occupancy and main colors
Level 3 geometric expression accuracy	G3	Geometric expression accuracy that meets the needs of fine recognition, such as construction and installation processes, procurement, etc.
Level 4 geometric expression accuracy	G4	Geometric expression accuracy that meets the needs of high-precision recognition, such as high-precision rendering display, product management, manufacturing, and processing preparation
Level 1 information depth	N1	It is advisable to include the model unit’s identity description, project information, organizational role, and other information
Level 2 information depth	N2	It is advisable to include and supplement N1-level information; add entity system relationship, composition, and material performance; or attribute information

) [79]. This standard only focuses on three major categories: model fineness, geometric expression accuracy, and information depth, and does not mention the requirements for the sustainable protection, renewal, and management of architectural heritage by the model. This requirement is similar to the BIM development levels of LOK100-500 proposed by UNITED-BIM.

However, the “A report for the Government Construction Client Group Building Information Modelling (BIM) Working Party Strategy Paper” issued by the British government in 2011 and the BIM dimensions (2D–8D level) have put forward constructive opinions on the sustainability of BIM models [80], but these are limited to the technical level. In contrast, there is still a long way to go for the exploration of HBIM technology in China in terms of cultural sustainability and technological sustainability.

In addition, most of the latest foreign research on HBIM technology focuses on architectural structure analysis [81], model accuracy control [82], semantic segmentation, BIM software plugins [83], and HBIM customization strategies [84]. However, a small number of scholars have established remote access methods by updating customized repositories to sustainably record the historical evolution of heritage, update its preservation status and decay process [85], and integrate multi-source information of historical buildings [86], thus supporting decision making in the protection, restoration, and management of architectural heritage. Some scholars have also built HBIM cross-cycle management platforms to manage the geometric data, decay degree, and material loss of architectural heritage structures in different time cycles [87]. Meanwhile, some students use HBIM to analyze and visually display the collected data. They use the real-time data view function of the platform to display sensor positions and the latest readings, generate interactive charts through the data navigator, and provide operations such as data browsing and export. They also use the analysis module to analyze the building’s energy performance and generate reports to visually present the changing trends and characteristics of the building’s energy performance, providing a basis for the building’s energy management and optimization [88]. This is also the strategy closest to the sustainable monitoring and analysis of heritage. It can be seen that the latest foreign research is all focused on the exploration and study of the real-time interaction, transmission, and analysis of HBIM, as well as the exploration and research of multi-source information browsing and management platforms.

In addition, scholars such as Reuven Maskil-Leitan, Iris Reychav, Bani Feriel Brahmi, Souad Sassi Boudemagh, Ilham Kitounif, and Aliakbar Kamari have also proposed the potential of Historical Building Information Modeling (HBIM) in relation to sociocultural sustainability and studied the performance of the integration of BIM and IPD in terms of sociocultural sustainability [89,90]. These two documents deeply explore the close connection and significant contributions of HBIM to sociocultural sustainability in construction projects from different perspectives. Specifically, HBIM helps with cultural inheritance and the maintenance of local characteristics. Under the Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) model, it promotes the participation of stakeholders and enhances community cohesion. This enhancement is an important manifestation of sociocultural sustainability, contributing to the construction of a more harmonious and stable social environment. With the help of HBIM technology, it plays a role in promoting the coordinated development of buildings and the sociocultural environment, contributing to the achievement of the goal of adapting buildings to sociocultural requirements in sociocultural sustainability. Moreover, HBIM promotes the dissemination of the concept of sustainable development in the construction industry. The spread of this concept helps to create a cultural atmosphere of sustainable development throughout the construction industry, driving the industry to develop in a more environmentally friendly, efficient, and socioculturally friendly direction, and promoting the realization of sociocultural sustainability at a macro level. Heap-Yih Chong and Xiangyu Wang proposed the development direction of integrating BIM with green assessment criteria and renewable energy and collaborating with multiple disciplines to make up for the shortcomings of existing standards and guidelines and promote the sustainable development of the built environment. There are numerous articles related to the association between HBIM and “sustainability”, so they will not be listed one by one here [91].

In contrast, China is still in the stage of practice and exploration. There has been no in-depth reflection on the issues related to the relationship between HBIM, cultural sustainability, and technological sustainability. Even the construction of BIM models is merely for the purpose of display and to “fulfill superficial requirements”, and there has been no in-depth discussion on subsequent applications and management.

Overall, the HBIM technology currently implemented in China is more inclined toward completing model construction and digital display. The research achievements also present a “fragmented” and unsystematic state, which differs from the explorations and research of some foreign scholars. These foreign scholars have deeply explored the “sustainable” potential of HBIM at the technical level, such as remote access to databases, the establishment of cross-cycle management platforms, the display of interactive icons, and the continuous detection and analysis of heritage structures. Zhang Yunan discussed and pointed out this issue in the article “Domestic HBIM Management Platform and Its Follow-up Business Expansion” [92], and Zhiwei Zhou also addressed it in the article “Driving Sustainable Cultural Heritage Tourism in China through Heritage Building Information Modeling” [93].

For the current HBIM technology in China, if we aim to achieve its technological sustainability in the protection, renewal, and management of architectural heritage, and thereby promote cultural sustainability, we should neither blindly copy foreign methods nor simply imitate them. Instead, we should explore a suitable path by integrating the characteristics of China’s own architectural heritage. Combining the literature review and previous research experience, this paper argues that the HBIM technology in China should first improve its technological sustainability and start from the following key technical nodes. That is, in the technological sustainability of the HBIM modeling stage, it includes five steps: (1) model planning, (2) data collection, (3) geometric measurement, (4) semantic segmentation, and (5) information modeling. The cultural sustainability of the HBIM application stage involves five aspects: (1) delivery methods, (2) interaction methods, (3) management methods, (4) expansion methods, and (5) display methods.

5. Evaluation and Suggestions on the Sustainability of HBIM Technology in China

Referring to the introduction section, it is not difficult to find that HBIM not only aligns with the concept of sustainability pointed out in reports such as those by the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) but also has a close connection with cultural and technological sustainability. For example, HBIM contributes to the effective management of heritage information, providing a basis for decision making to reduce disaster risks. The information acquisition method of HBIM and its online and offline exhibitions can break the monopoly of educational resources and benefit science popularization education in more regions. The popularization and development of HBIM are in line with the Outline of the Fourteenth Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development of the People’s Republic of China and the Long-Range Objectives Through the Year 2035, that is, the policy and strategic direction of the digitalization of the cultural industry, and are guaranteed by relevant policies. HBIM can effectively inherit and protect the spiritual wealth of local people, drive and promote the development of local sustainable cultural tourism, bring economic benefits to the local area, and leave a large amount of digital heritage for future generations. The cross-cycle management and interactive platform of HBIM can achieve minimal intervention in heritage protection and research, save scientific research and protection costs, improve the accuracy of decision making, and avoid irreversible losses caused by investigations, scientific research, surveying and mapping, and force majeure factors. Based on the above-mentioned review research, this paper takes the “sustainable” path of HBIM technology as the theme and puts forward “sustainable” ideas and suggestions regarding the modeling stage (technological sustainability) and the application stage (cultural sustainability) of this technology.

(1) Transformation of Surveying and Mapping Thinking: When carrying out HBIM work, model planning is of utmost importance in the modeling stage, and a clear mindset is the key to model planning. We should be aware that HBIM is actually “information-based surveying and mapping”, which is significantly different from traditional analog surveying and mapping and digital surveying and mapping. “Information-based surveying and mapping” means that it no longer simply provides “surveying and mapping drawings” or “technical base maps” for research or survey and design work, nor is it a basic task subordinate to local protection work (such as renovation projects). Instead, through technological innovation, it develops a sustainable information management platform for heritage and provides information management services that command the overall situation and run through the entire process of protection work. It is characterized by the digitalization of the technical system, the networking of information interaction, the professionalization and socialization of information services, and the legalization of information sharing. Therefore, we need to change our thinking in surveying and mapping as well as in heritage protection.

(2) Transformation of the Workflow: This part involves multiple stages of HBIM, including data collection, geometric measurement, semantic segmentation, and information modeling. These stages are also important ways to achieve the technological sustainability of HBIM. That is, in the early stage of model construction, a Network-Attached Storage (NAS) cloud server is used to exchange and update the key files in BIM model files, so as to achieve cross-time–space, cross-professional, and cross-platform collaborative work among different surveying and mapping teams, thus realizing the “sustainability” of the modeling stage. For example, ArchiCAD (Graphisoft) (version 28.2.0), Tekla Structures (version 2024 SP7), Bentley System (version 2024 v24.00.03.0077), Revit Autodesk (version 2024), and AccaSoftware Edificius (version Edificius5 11.0.4) (the component family libraries of the above-mentioned software adapted to traditional Chinese architecture need to be built separately, which is a relatively long-term process) can all be used to exchange model files (

Table 2. HBIM modeling software. Data source: author’s summary.

HBIM Modeling Software Classification
BIM Platform Name	Main Functions	Remark
Autodesk Revit Architecture (version 2025, Autodesk, Inc.)	Architectural modeling and parametric design	Dynamo (suitable for NAS file exchange)
Autodesk Revit Structure (version 2025, Autodesk, Inc.)	Structural modeling and parametric design	Dynamo (suitable for NAS file exchange)
Bentley Architecture (version 08.11.07.87, Bentley Systems, Inc.)	BIM modeling	(Suitable for NAS file exchange)
AccaSoftware Edificius (version 11.0.4, ACCA Software)	CADBuilding information modeling design and 3D CAD	Professionally developed software (suitable for NAS file exchange)
Vico Office (version 3.0, Vico Software)	Five-dimensional conceptual modeling
Trelligence Affinity (version 9.0, Trelligence, Inc.)	Concept design modeling	Early design stage
Graphisoft ArchiCAD (version 27 build 3001, Graphisoft)	Architectural Concept Modeling	(Suitable for NAS file exchange)
Tekla Structures (version 2024 SP7, Tekla)	Architectural Concept Modeling
Nemetschek Vectorworks Designer (version 2025, Vectorworks, Inc.)	Architectural Concept Modeling

). In China, Revit Autodesk and the Bentley System are mainly used. They are not only suitable for the construction of HBIM models of ancient buildings but also have the stability to meet the requirements of IFC data exchange under the condition of version adaptation. In addition, in the division of labor and cooperation among different teams, by combining the investigation and surveying and mapping processes, it is possible to discover the deformation, diseases, damages of architectural heritage and their causes, as well as potential correlations, providing basic data and information services for subsequent structural deformation monitoring, protection projects, daily maintenance, exhibition utilization, and scientific management. At the same time, different teams can integrate the recorded files of previous protection projects, daily maintenance, and other multi-source information data (such as documents and drawings), and combine on-site investigations to evaluate the effects, gains, and losses of previous protection projects, which can also provide information services for subsequent protection projects and further improve the accuracy and integrity of the information model.

(3) Application of the management platform: This part covers the application stage of HBIM, which is also a crucial step for HBIM to promote cultural sustainability. It involves integrating HBIM achievements into an integrated platform for delivery, interaction, management, monitoring, and display (input data information such as form analysis, disease investigation, historical documents, engineering archives, and value assessment obtained through on-site investigations, literature research, and follow-up interviews. At the same time, we standardize the data to form data conforming to the IFC standard and other graphic and text data.) For example, by customizing the HBIM repository and platform, sustainable management and remote access to architectural heritage can be achieved, ensuring the sustainable inheritance of heritage information. With the help of software and methods such as Navisworks Freedom, Tekla BIMsight, Open BIM xBIMXplorer, VR, and AR, sustainable education, interaction, and research can be realized, breaking the monopoly and imbalance of educational resources. Using software such as Ecotect Analysis (version 1.0, Autodesk, USA), DAYSIM (version4.0, Canada/USA), and Energy Plus (version V24.1.0, DOE, USA) (

Table 3. HBIM functional analysis software. Data source: author’s summary.

HBIM Functional Analysis Software
BIM Platform Name	Main Functions	Remark
Autodesk Robot (version 2025, Autodesk, USA)	Building structure analysis	Bidirectional link to Autodesk Revit Structure
Autodesk Ecotect (version 2011, Autodesk, USA)	Building energy analysis	Weather, energy, water, carbon emissions analysis
Autodesk Green Building Studio (Cloud platform, Autodesk, USA)	Building energy analysis	Measure energy use and carbon footprint
Bentley Systems Structural Analysis Design Detailing, Building Performance (version 08.11.07.87, Bentley Systems, Inc.)	Structural analysis, detailing, earthwork calculations, building performance	Measure, evaluate, and report building performance
Beck Technology DProfiler (version DProfiler11, Beck Technology, USA)	Cost estimate	With real-time cost-estimation function
Vico Office (version 5.5, Vico Software, USA)	Cost and schedule estimates

) and remote detection instruments (such as PIR-, LUX-level sensors, VOC and dB sensors, CO₂-level sensors, etc.), sustainable monitoring, diagnosis, and energy conservation of the structure and space of architectural heritage can be achieved. Of course, there are already many such integrated platforms. Mainstream delivery platforms include Autodesk BIM 360, Simplebim, and BIMCC (China), among others. However, there is still no platform specifically developed for HBIM. The main reason is that for most domestic teams and scholars in China, there are significant limitations in the funds available for the development and establishment of professional platforms.

In addition to the methods mentioned above that can promote the development of sustainability in HBIM at the technical and cultural levels, currently, combining HBIM with means such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and machine learning can also provide more methods and models for “sustainability” at the technical level. For example, it can achieve automatic scanning of the BIM workflow, automatic classification, archiving, and improvement of heritage information; automatic filtering and semantic recognition of point cloud data; predictive maintenance; and preventive protection, among other aspects.

This paper proposes a set of modeling paths applicable to HBIM to achieve “technological sustainability” and promote cultural sustainability:

• The first stage of the modeling phase. The team conducts model planning, data collection, and geometric measurement work internally. Different groups carry out scanning work on site with the help of point cloud scanning tools, generating formats such as .pts, .ptx, .pod, and .rcs. At the same time, set up the Revit and Dynamo modeling environment (insert the Python module and call the Revit API for programming at any time), and load the Open 3D module on the Python module to automatically filter the collected point cloud data (including open source codes for index filtering, statistical filtering, radius filtering, and voxel filtering), remove outliers, and generate more accurate point cloud data.
• The second stage of the modeling phase. Based on the filtered point cloud data, different groups load the new neural network PointNet++ module on Python (version 3.12.1, PSF, USA) to perform semantic segmentation on the point cloud data and import it into Dynamo. Through different steps such as point cloud display, simplification, slicing, projection, and solid modeling, the corresponding solid model is obtained. At the same time, with the help of the NAS server, exchange the Revit model information files and assemble the model in the “cloud” (premise: the PointNet++ model needs to be trained on the S3DIS dataset or the Shapenet dataset, which involves the spatial point clouds of different types of traditional Chinese architecture).
• The third stage of the modeling phase. Different groups input the sorted data of exploration, archaeology, interviews, monitoring, etc., into different blocks of the BIM model and finally complete the preliminary work of information modeling.
• The application phase: The team leader exports the final HBIM achievement in the IFC format (IFC4.3 add2) through Revit for data exchange. The file can be integrated with cloud-based collaboration platforms such as Autodesk BIM 360, Simplebim, NBS Platform, and BIMCC (China) to achieve the sustainability of HBIM protection, update, and management. The team and groups can continuously update the HBIM data across cycles according to customer needs, further realizing the sustainable management, sustainable interaction, and sustainable expansion of HBIM; they can also use functional analysis equipment to achieve the sustainable monitoring, sustainable display, and sustainable protection of heritage; and they can cooperate with institutions of higher education, use HBIM as an educational resource, open different permissions, and give play to the function of sustainable education.

The above workflow can basically achieve the automation of the HBIM modeling stage and the sustainability of HBIM in the application stage. Combining the previous discussion on the relationship between HBIM and sustainability, the final achievement is bound to promote the sustainable development of traditional Chinese architectural heritage.

6. Discussion

6.1. Restatement and Interpretation of Research Results

This study comprehensively analyzed the application and development of HBIM in Chinese architectural heritage, with a focus on its sustainability. We found that while HBIM in China has shown certain development trends in aspects like model construction and application directions, there are still significant limitations in terms of sustainability.

In terms of development status, HBIM research in China has seen an upward trend, but many studies remain at the initial stage of model construction and digital display. The four major practice and application directions, including automatic modeling algorithms, parametric and procedural modeling, multi-dimensional extended applications, and collaborative platform construction, have shown potential but lack in-depth exploration of sustainability.

Regarding sustainability, current HBIM technology in China pays insufficient attention to cultural and technological sustainability. There is a lack of systematic research and practical exploration in this area, and the existing research achievements are fragmented. Our proposed sustainable working path for HBIM, covering aspects such as surveying and mapping, thinking transformation, workflow improvement, and management platform application, aims to address these issues. It provides a theoretical framework for promoting the sustainable development of HBIM in China, which is crucial for better protecting and managing architectural heritage.

6.2. Comparison with Previous Studies

Previous studies on HBIM in China mainly concentrated on technical applications like model building and visualization display, such as using HBIM for the protection and research of specific architectural heritages. However, they rarely delved into the sustainability of HBIM. In contrast, this paper takes a more comprehensive view, not only summarizing the existing application status but also deeply analyzing the sustainability issues.

Compared with foreign research, which has explored aspects like remote access to databases, cross-cycle management platforms, and real-time interaction and analysis of HBIM, China is still in the stage of practice and exploration. Our research fills the gap by specifically focusing on the “sustainable” potential of HBIM in the Chinese context, considering the characteristics of China’s architectural heritage and the domestic research environment.

6.3. Limitations of the Research

Firstly, the research sample is limited. This paper mainly focuses on Chinese scholars’ research results and foreign research on HBIM in China, covering only several databases. It may not comprehensively represent all academic achievements, which could affect the generalization of the research conclusions.

Secondly, the selected articles are mainly high-quality articles from certain databases, and other articles are used as supplementary references. Although efforts have been made to ensure objectivity, this selection method may overlook some valuable research from less well-known sources.

Thirdly, the current research on HBIM in China is fragmented. Many studies lack systematicity, and this fragmentation also affects the in-depth exploration of HBIM sustainability in this paper. It is difficult to form a complete theoretical system based on these fragmented findings.

Fourthly, BIM software and IFC updating and compatibility issues pose challenges. Data loss and damage during the exchange process not only affect the normal application of HBIM but also limit the realization of its sustainability, which is an aspect that cannot be ignored in our research.

Fifthly, the high cost of HBIM technology development restricts the research. Smaller teams and individual scholars face difficulties in obtaining sufficient funds for software purchase, instrument acquisition, and cloud platform rentals, which may slow down the exploration and practice of HBIM sustainability. This is also mentioned in the article Integration of Building Information Modelling (BIM) for Cultural Preservation in Infrastructure Development in Bali, Indonesia. The author points out that the support of the government and stakeholders is crucial to promoting the local application of BIM, such as policy and financial support, training, and incentives. Only in this way can HBIM play a role in social and cultural sustainability [94].

6.4. Research Significance and Application Prospects

Despite the limitations, this research has important significance. It is the first to systematically analyze the sustainability of HBIM in the context of Chinese architectural heritage, providing a new perspective for domestic scholars. The proposed sustainable working path offers practical guidance for future HBIM development, which can help improve the efficiency of architectural heritage protection and management.

In the future, with the continuous development of technology and increasing attention to heritage protection, HBIM is expected to play a more important role. Our research can serve as a reference for promoting the integration of HBIM with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, further enhancing its sustainability. It also provides a basis for formulating relevant policies and standards, promoting the healthy development of the HBIM industry in China.

7. Conclusions

This research focuses on the application and development of HBIM technology in the field of Chinese architectural heritage. It has significant value in many aspects, yet also has certain limitations, with numerous possibilities for future research expansion.

Regarding the research value added, theoretically, this study deeply reveals the close connection between HBIM technology and cultural and technological sustainability. By integrating it with international sustainable development concepts and standards, it enriches the theoretical system of digital protection for architectural heritage and lays a theoretical foundation for subsequent research. In practice, it sorts out the application status, four major practical directions of HBIM technology in China, and proposes a sustainable working path, providing practical technical references and practical guidance for architectural heritage protection and management work, which helps to improve the efficiency and quality of projects. From an academic perspective, it fills the gap in the research on the sustainability of HBIM technology in China, provides a new perspective for domestic scholars, and stimulates more academic discussions and cooperation.

However, the research has some limitations. In terms of research sample selection, although multiple databases are used, due to personal energy constraints, it is impossible to cover all academic achievements. Moreover, when screening, the emphasis on high-quality articles may lead to the omission of valuable research, affecting the universality and comprehensiveness of the conclusions. Currently, the research achievements of HBIM in China are scattered and lack systematicity, which hinders the in-depth exploration of its sustainability. The update and compatibility issues of BIM software and IFC standards lead to data loss and damage during the exchange process, affecting the assessment of the full life cycle sustainability of HBIM technology in the research. In addition, the high development cost of HBIM technology restricts the participation of small teams and individual scholars, limiting the diversity of research samples and the expansion of the research scope.

Based on these limitations, future research can be expanded in many aspects. One can broaden the data collection channels and incorporate more domestic and foreign databases, academic conference materials, and unpublished research results to increase the diversity of the research samples; construct a unified research framework for HBIM sustainability, integrate scattered research results, and promote the standardization and systematization of research; pay attention to the updates of software and standards, participate in technical improvements and standard-setting processes, and explore better data management and exchange methods; explore ways to reduce costs to attract more participants; and deeply study the integration and application of HBIM with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and blockchain to enhance its sustainability with the help of new technologies.