Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
4.4
3.1
Journals
Buildings
Editor’s Choice
share announcement

Editor’s Choice Articles

Editor’s Choice articles are based on recommendations by the scientific editors of MDPI journals from around the world. Editors select a small number of articles recently published in the journal that they believe will be particularly interesting to readers, or important in the respective research area. The aim is to provide a snapshot of some of the most exciting work published in the various research areas of the journal.

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
20 pages, 1581 KB  
Article
Smart Building Recommendations with LLMs: A Semantic Comparison Approach
by Ioannis Papaioannou, Christos Korkas and Elias Kosmatopoulos
Buildings 2025, 15(13), 2303; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15132303 - 30 Jun 2025
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3352
Abstract
The increasing need for sustainable energy management in smart buildings calls for cost-effective solutions that balance energy efficiency and occupant comfort. This article presents a Large Language Model (LLM)-based recommendation system capable of generating proactive, context-aware suggestions from dynamic building conditions. The system [...] Read more.
The increasing need for sustainable energy management in smart buildings calls for cost-effective solutions that balance energy efficiency and occupant comfort. This article presents a Large Language Model (LLM)-based recommendation system capable of generating proactive, context-aware suggestions from dynamic building conditions. The system was trained on a combination of real-world data and Sinergym simulations, capturing inputs such as weather conditions, forecasts, energy usage, electricity prices, and detailed zone parameters. Five models were fine-tuned and evaluated: GPT-2-Small, GPT-2-Medium, DeepSeek-R1-Distill-Qwen-1.5B, DeepSeek-R1-Distill-Qwen-7B, and GPT-4. To enhance evaluation precision, a novel metric, the Zone-Aware Semantic Reward (ZASR), was developed, combining Sentence-BERT with zone-level scoring and complemented by F1-Score metrics. While GPT-4 demonstrated strong performance with minimal data, its high inference cost limits scalability. In contrast, open-access models like DeepSeek-R1-Distill-Qwen-1.5B, DeepSeek-R1-Distill-Qwen-7B, and GPT-2-Medium required larger datasets but matched or exceeded GPT-4’s performance at significantly lower cost. The system demonstrated adaptability across diverse building types, supported by heterogeneous datasets and parameter normalization. Importantly, the system was also deployed in a real-world multi-zone residential building in Thessaloniki, Greece. During a two-week operational period under near-identical weather and occupancy conditions, the model-assisted recommendations contributed to an estimated 10% reduction in electricity consumption, showcasing the practical potential of LLM-based recommendations in live building environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 5026 KB  
Article
Quantifying the Thermal and Energy Impacts of Urban Morphology Using Multi-Source Data: A Multi-Scale Study in Coastal High-Density Contexts
by Chenhang Bian, Chi Chung Lee, Xi Chen, Chun Yin Li and Panpan Hu
Buildings 2025, 15(13), 2266; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15132266 - 27 Jun 2025
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2134
Abstract
Urban thermal environments, characterized by the interplay between indoor and outdoor conditions, pose growing challenges in high-density coastal cities. This study proposes a multi-scale, integrative framework that couples a satellite-derived land surface temperature (LST) analysis with microscale building performance simulations to holistically evaluate [...] Read more.
Urban thermal environments, characterized by the interplay between indoor and outdoor conditions, pose growing challenges in high-density coastal cities. This study proposes a multi-scale, integrative framework that couples a satellite-derived land surface temperature (LST) analysis with microscale building performance simulations to holistically evaluate the high-density urban thermal environment in subtropical climates. The results reveal that compact, high-density morphologies reduce outdoor heat stress (UTCI) through self-shading but lead to significantly higher cooling loads, energy use intensity (EUI), and poorer daylight autonomy (DA) due to restricted ventilation and limited sky exposure. In contrast, more open, vegetation-rich forms improve ventilation and reduce indoor energy demand, yet exhibit higher UTCI values in exposed areas and increased lighting energy use in poorly oriented spaces. This study also proposes actionable design strategies, including optimal building spacing (≥15 m), façade orientation (30–60° offset from west), SVF regulation (0.4–0.6), and the integration of vertical greenery to balance solar access, ventilation, and shading. These findings offer evidence-based guidance for embedding morphological performance metrics into planning policies and building design codes. This work advances the integration of outdoor and indoor performance evaluation and supports climate-adaptive urban form design through quantitative, policy-relevant insights. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 18896 KB  
Article
Visual Discomfort in the Built Environment: Leveraging Generative AI and Computational Analysis to Evaluate Predicted Visual Stress in Architectural Façades
by Cleo Valentine, Arnold J. Wilkins, Heather Mitcheltree, Olivier Penacchio, Bruce Beckles and Ian Hosking
Buildings 2025, 15(13), 2208; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15132208 - 24 Jun 2025
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 7720
Abstract
The built environment is increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of human health, profoundly influencing neurophysiological and psychological well-being. Previous studies show that specific visual patterns can elicit cortical hyperexcitation and visual discomfort, particularly in individuals with a predisposition to cortical hyperexcitability. However, [...] Read more.
The built environment is increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of human health, profoundly influencing neurophysiological and psychological well-being. Previous studies show that specific visual patterns can elicit cortical hyperexcitation and visual discomfort, particularly in individuals with a predisposition to cortical hyperexcitability. However, traditional approaches to examining visual stress have yet to capture the complexity of ways in which the built environment may contribute to visual discomfort. This study presents a novel, integrated analytical methodology that merges generative artificial intelligence (using Midjourney v6.1) with advanced Fourier-based computational analysis to quantify the impact of architectural façades on visual stress. By systematically varying contrast ratios, pattern periodicity, spatial frequency distribution, stylistic elements, and geometric curvature across nine façade designs, the research generated a diverse array of stimuli that were then analyzed using the Visual Stress Analysis Tool (ViStA). This tool employs Fourier spatial frequency decomposition to extract key metrics that are proxy indicators of potential cortical stress responses. The results revealed that façades with regularly spaced elements at approximately three cycles per degree exhibited the highest stress metrics, particularly when combined with high contrast ratios and consistent repetition. Vertical wooden slats and vertical metal screening elements produced the most pronounced indicators of visual stress, while more varied geometric compositions demonstrated substantially lower stress metrics. This methodology offers a scalable, reproducible approach for the evaluation of visual stress. The framework lays the groundwork for developing a more robust evidence base to support architectural design decision-making that proactively addresses the health impacts of the built environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Wellbeing: The Impact of Spatial Parameters—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

53 pages, 3424 KB  
Review
Circular Industrialized Construction: A Perspective Through Design for Manufacturing, Assembly, and Disassembly
by Héctor Hernández
Buildings 2025, 15(13), 2174; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15132174 - 22 Jun 2025
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 6516
Abstract
Improving resource efficiency by reducing waste and process inefficiencies across the building life cycle is essential for advancing sustainability in the built environment. Circular and industrialized construction offer complementary strategies to meet this challenge. While Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) enhances constructability, [...] Read more.
Improving resource efficiency by reducing waste and process inefficiencies across the building life cycle is essential for advancing sustainability in the built environment. Circular and industrialized construction offer complementary strategies to meet this challenge. While Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) enhances constructability, standardization, and productivity in early project phases, Design for Disassembly (DfD) facilitates material recovery and adaptability at end-of-life. Despite their synergies, their integrated application remains underexplored. This study proposes a unified framework—Design for Manufacturing, Assembly, and Disassembly (DfMAD)—to align value creation and value retention strategies across the life cycle. A systematic literature review of 102 articles, following PRISMA guidelines, combined bibliometric and thematic analysis to identify key principles, benefits, barriers, and enablers of DfMA and DfD. Cross-mapping these findings revealed conceptual overlaps and distinctions and informed the synthesis of core DfMAD attributes. The resulting framework offers a life cycle-oriented approach that supports product-based delivery, traceability, and circular design strategies. By promoting shared logic across disciplines and project phases, DfMAD provides a foundation for operationalizing circularity in industrialized construction, contributing both theoretical and practical guidance for advancing resource-efficient, adaptable, and disassemblable building systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 22501 KB  
Article
Computer Vision-Based Safety Monitoring of Mobile Scaffolding Integrating Depth Sensors
by Muhammad Sibtain Abbas, Rahat Hussain, Syed Farhan Alam Zaidi, Doyeop Lee and Chansik Park
Buildings 2025, 15(13), 2147; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15132147 - 20 Jun 2025
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2808
Abstract
Mobile scaffolding is essential in construction but presents significant safety risks, particularly falls from height (FFH) due to improper use and insufficient monitoring. While prior research has identified hazards, it often lacks robust, actionable solutions, especially regarding the comprehensive analysis of worker behaviors [...] Read more.
Mobile scaffolding is essential in construction but presents significant safety risks, particularly falls from height (FFH) due to improper use and insufficient monitoring. While prior research has identified hazards, it often lacks robust, actionable solutions, especially regarding the comprehensive analysis of worker behaviors and the spatial context. This study proposed a computer vision-based safety monitoring system that leverages depth cameras for accurate spatial assessments and incorporates temporal conditions to reduce false alarms. The proposed system extends object detection algorithms with mathematical logic derived from safety rules to classify four key unsafe conditions related to safety helmet use, guardrail and outrigger presence, and worker overcrowding on mobile scaffolds. A diverse dataset from multiple sources enhances the model’s applicability to real-world scenarios, while a status trigger module verifies worker behavior over a 3 s window, minimizing detection errors. The experimental results demonstrate high precision (0.95), recall (0.97), F1-score (0.96), and accuracy (0.95) for safe behaviors, with similarly strong metrics for unsafe behaviors. The qualitative analysis further confirms substantial improvements in worker position detection and safety compliance using 3D data over 2D approaches. These findings highlight the effectiveness of the proposed system in improving mobile scaffolding safety, addressing critical research gaps, and advancing construction industry safety standards. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Next-Gen Risk Management: AI-Driven Solutions for Engineering and Construction Projects)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 5488 KB  
Review
3D Concrete Printing Review: Equipment, Materials, Mix Design, and Properties
by Giedrius Girskas and Modestas Kligys
Buildings 2025, 15(12), 2049; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15122049 - 14 Jun 2025
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 14155
Abstract
3D concrete printing (3DCP) technology holds significant potential to revolutionise traditional concrete production methods, offering designers and architects greater flexibility in creating intricate and innovative structures. Beyond structural applications, 3D printed concrete products encompass decorative elements, customised design solutions, and even artistic installations. [...] Read more.
3D concrete printing (3DCP) technology holds significant potential to revolutionise traditional concrete production methods, offering designers and architects greater flexibility in creating intricate and innovative structures. Beyond structural applications, 3D printed concrete products encompass decorative elements, customised design solutions, and even artistic installations. The 3DCP process is highly automated, often integrating building information modelling (BIM) systems, minimising the need for manual labour and generating minimal material waste. 3DCP is regarded as one of the most advanced and efficient methods for fabricating concrete components in the future. This paper examines 3DCP technology and equipment, focusing on the selection of binder types, aggregates, and chemical admixtures, suitable for printable concrete mixes. Particular attention is given to the consistency and workability of 3DCP mixtures. Furthermore, the study evaluates the influence of 3D printing parameters on the mechanical properties of hardened concrete. The insights presented in this review contribute to a deeper understanding of 3D concrete printing technologies, equipment, and materials, benefiting researchers, structural engineers, and designers in the pursuit of enhanced durability and performance of 3D printed concrete structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Concrete: Research on Waste Utilization and Performance Optimization)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 1825 KB  
Article
Dynamic Gradient Descent and Reinforcement Learning for AI-Enhanced Indoor Building Environmental Simulation
by Xiaolong Chen, Haohao Yang, Hongfeng Zhang and Cora Un In Wong
Buildings 2025, 15(12), 2044; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15122044 - 13 Jun 2025
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1834
Abstract
We propose a novel dynamic gradient descent (DGD) framework integrated with reinforcement learning (RL) for AI-enhanced indoor environmental simulation, addressing the limitations of static optimization in dynamic settings. The proposed method combines a hybrid optimizer—stochastic gradient descent with momentum and adaptive learning rates—with [...] Read more.
We propose a novel dynamic gradient descent (DGD) framework integrated with reinforcement learning (RL) for AI-enhanced indoor environmental simulation, addressing the limitations of static optimization in dynamic settings. The proposed method combines a hybrid optimizer—stochastic gradient descent with momentum and adaptive learning rates—with an RL-driven meta-controller to dynamically adjust hyperparameters in response to real-time environmental fluctuations. The core innovation lies in the time-varying optimization landscape, where a Transformer-based policy network modulates the learning process based on a reward signal that balances prediction accuracy and parameter stability. Furthermore, the system employs a multilayer perceptron predictor trained on computational fluid dynamics-augmented data to model nonlinear thermal–airflow interactions, replacing conventional lumped-parameter models. The integration of these components enables autonomous adaptation to short-term disturbances (e.g., occupancy changes) and long-term drifts (e.g., seasonal variations) without manual recalibration. Experiments demonstrate that the framework significantly improves simulation accuracy and control efficiency compared to existing methods. The contributions include a unified adaptive optimization-RL architecture, a closed-loop hyperparameter control mechanism, and scalable implementation on GPU-accelerated hardware. This work advances the state-of-the-art in intelligent building systems by enabling self-tuning simulations for real-world dynamic environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 1049 KB  
Systematic Review
Modular Construction: A Comprehensive Review
by Mohammadamin Zohourian, Apurva Pamidimukkala, Sharareh Kermanshachi and Deema Almaskati
Buildings 2025, 15(12), 2020; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15122020 - 12 Jun 2025
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 25929
Abstract
Modular construction has the potential to transform the construction industry, as most (80–95%) of the modules, which are considered prefabricated buildings, are manufactured off-site, which is more efficient, safe, cost-effective, sustainable, productive, and faster than traditional construction. It is not without challenges, however, [...] Read more.
Modular construction has the potential to transform the construction industry, as most (80–95%) of the modules, which are considered prefabricated buildings, are manufactured off-site, which is more efficient, safe, cost-effective, sustainable, productive, and faster than traditional construction. It is not without challenges, however, as it requires detailed and comprehensive planning, high initial costs, and navigating transportation and design constraints. The goal of this study was to identify and categorize the benefits and challenges of modular construction and offer strategies for resolving the challenges. This study also provides a comprehensive review of modular construction methods, including permanent modular construction (PMC), movable modular construction (RMC), volumetric modular construction (VMC), and panelized construction, and examines the connectivity of the modules, as well as the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). The results revealed that the most frequently cited benefits of modular construction were reducing construction time by up to 50%, 20% cost savings, and material waste reduction of up to 83%. The most common challenges included transportation complexity, limited design flexibility, and high initial costs. The results of this study will assist project managers, construction professionals, and company owners in evaluating modular construction by providing quantified benefits and challenges, a comparative analysis of different modular methods, and insights into effective mitigation strategies, allowing them to assess its suitability based on project timelines, budgets, design requirements, and logistical constraints. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 3266 KB  
Review
State of the Art Review on Hempcrete as a Sustainable Substitute for Traditional Construction Materials for Home Building
by Wei Tong and Ali M. Memari
Buildings 2025, 15(12), 1988; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15121988 - 9 Jun 2025
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 13334
Abstract
Currently, the construction industry relies mainly on non-environmentally sustainable materials such as fired clay brick, concrete, and steel, which significantly contribute to global carbon dioxide generation, leading to environmental degradation. In response to mounting environmental concerns, there is a growing emphasis on developing [...] Read more.
Currently, the construction industry relies mainly on non-environmentally sustainable materials such as fired clay brick, concrete, and steel, which significantly contribute to global carbon dioxide generation, leading to environmental degradation. In response to mounting environmental concerns, there is a growing emphasis on developing and utilizing low-impact materials that mitigate the ecological footprint of construction activities. This review offers a detailed overview of current formulations and applications of hempcrete and compares the performance of different types of hempcrete as construction materials. Additionally, this paper seeks to evaluate the potential of hempcrete as a sustainable substitute for traditional construction materials with high energy demands and significant CO2 emissions based on life cycle assessment (LCA). Furthermore, this study summarizes current challenges and prospects for composite innovations in hempcrete, emphasizing the need for standardized product control and broader industrial acceptance, thus providing useful insights for practitioners and researchers in the field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Advances in Enhancing Properties of Concrete, Mortar, Gypsum, and Plaster Materials)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 2051 KB  
Review
Unfired Bricks from Wastes: A Review of Stabiliser Technologies, Performance Metrics, and Circular Economy Pathways
by Yuxin (Justin) Wang and Hossam Abuel-Naga
Buildings 2025, 15(11), 1861; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15111861 - 28 May 2025
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6230
Abstract
Unfired bricks offer a sustainable alternative to traditional fired bricks by enabling the large-scale reuse of industrial, construction, and municipal wastes while significantly reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This review contributes to eliminating knowledge fragmentation by systematically organising stabiliser technologies, performance [...] Read more.
Unfired bricks offer a sustainable alternative to traditional fired bricks by enabling the large-scale reuse of industrial, construction, and municipal wastes while significantly reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This review contributes to eliminating knowledge fragmentation by systematically organising stabiliser technologies, performance metrics, and sustainability indicators across a wide variety of unfired brick systems. It thus provides a coherent reference framework to support further development and industrial translation. Emphasis is placed on the role of stabilisers—including cement, lime, geopolymers, and microbial or bio-based stabilisers—in improving mechanical strength, moisture resistance, and durability. Performance data are analysed in relation to compressive strength, water absorption, drying shrinkage, thermal conductivity, and resistance to freeze–thaw and wet–dry cycles. The findings indicate that properly stabilised unfired bricks can achieve compressive strengths above 20 MPa and water absorption rates below 10%, with notable improvements in insulation and acoustic properties. Additionally, life-cycle comparisons reveal up to 90% reductions in CO2 emissions and energy use relative to fired clay bricks. Despite technical and environmental advantages, broader adoption remains limited due to standardisation gaps and market unfamiliarity. The paper concludes by highlighting the importance of hybrid stabiliser systems, targeted certification frameworks, and waste valorisation policies to support the transition toward low-carbon, resource-efficient construction practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycling of Waste in Material Science and Building Engineering)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 7192 KB  
Article
Evaluating Art Exhibition Spaces Through Space Syntax and Multimodal Physiological Data
by Yunwan Dai, Yujie Ren, Hong Li and Meng Wang
Buildings 2025, 15(11), 1776; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15111776 - 22 May 2025
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4621
Abstract
Art exhibition spaces increasingly emphasize visitor experience, yet the relationships among spatial structure, visitor behavior, and emotional response remain unclear. Traditional space syntax analyses typically focus on physical spatial structures, insufficiently capturing visitors’ emotional and cognitive experiences. To address these gaps, this study [...] Read more.
Art exhibition spaces increasingly emphasize visitor experience, yet the relationships among spatial structure, visitor behavior, and emotional response remain unclear. Traditional space syntax analyses typically focus on physical spatial structures, insufficiently capturing visitors’ emotional and cognitive experiences. To address these gaps, this study presents an integrative evaluation framework that combines space syntax theory with multimodal physiological measurements to systematically assess spatial design performance in art exhibition environments. Eye-tracking and heart rate variability (HRV) experiments were conducted to investigate how spatial configuration affects visual attention and emotional responses. Visibility graph analysis, spatial integration metrics, and regression modeling were applied using the third-floor temporary exhibition hall of the Pudong Art Museum in Shanghai as a case study. The results revealed that HRV levels (β = −7.92) were significantly predicted via spatial integration, and the relationship between spatial integration and the number of fixations was partially mediated by HRV (indirect effect: β = −0.36; direct effect: β = 8.23). Additionally, zones with higher occlusivity were associated with more complex scanpaths (mean complexity: 0.14), whereas highly integrated regions triggered more fixations (mean = 10.54) and longer total fixation durations (mean = 2946.98 ms). Therefore, spatial syntax, when coupled with physiological indicators, provides a robust and actionable method for evaluating and optimizing exhibition space design. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2805 KB  
Article
Impact of Thermal Mass, Window Performance, and Window–Wall Ratio on Indoor Thermal Dynamics in Public Buildings
by Ran Cheng, Nan Zhang, Wengan Zhang, Yinan Sun, Bing Yin and Weijun Gao
Buildings 2025, 15(10), 1757; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15101757 - 21 May 2025
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3617
Abstract
Thermal comfort in public buildings is crucial for occupant well-being and energy efficiency. This study employs TRNSYS software to simulate the effects of thermal mass, window performance, and window–wall ratio (WWR) on summer thermal comfort. The results indicate that without energy-saving measures, increased [...] Read more.
Thermal comfort in public buildings is crucial for occupant well-being and energy efficiency. This study employs TRNSYS software to simulate the effects of thermal mass, window performance, and window–wall ratio (WWR) on summer thermal comfort. The results indicate that without energy-saving measures, increased thermal mass raises daily average maximum and minimum temperatures by 0.33–0.96 °C and 0.14–0.94 °C, respectively. Enhanced WWRs lead to higher daily average maximum and minimum temperatures for double-glazed windows (0.18–0.61 °C and 0.07–0.62 °C, respectively), while single-glazed windows show increased maximum temperatures (0.18–1.86 °C) but decreased minimum temperatures (−0.01 to −0.72 °C). Thermal mass has a modest effect on indoor overheating during high outdoor temperatures. Double-glazed windows and lower WWRs effectively reduce indoor overheating, decreasing the attenuation coefficient by 2.13–28.94%. Conversely, single-glazed windows and higher WWRs enhance heat dissipation, increasing daily average temperature fluctuations by 2.33–44.18%. Notably, single-glazed windows with WWRs ≥ 50% improve thermal comfort by reducing extreme superheat temperature occurrence in heavy-thermal-mass buildings by 0.81 to 14.63%. Despite lower cooling loads with heavy thermal mass, double-glazed windows, and low WWRs, the study suggests that single-glazed windows and high WWRs can enhance summer thermal comfort. Therefore, reasonable shading measures and lighter thermal mass are recommended for such buildings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 7861 KB  
Review
Data-Driven Analysis of Construction Safety Dynamics: Regulatory Frameworks, Evolutionary Patterns, and Technological Innovations
by Hosam Olimat, Zaid Alwashah, Osama Abudayyeh and Hexu Liu
Buildings 2025, 15(10), 1680; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15101680 - 16 May 2025
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4017
Abstract
Construction remains one of the most hazardous industries, consistently reporting high rates of workplace injuries and fatalities. Despite advancements in safety regulations and technologies, significant risks persist due to hazardous tasks, including working at heights, operating heavy machinery, and exposure to harmful materials. [...] Read more.
Construction remains one of the most hazardous industries, consistently reporting high rates of workplace injuries and fatalities. Despite advancements in safety regulations and technologies, significant risks persist due to hazardous tasks, including working at heights, operating heavy machinery, and exposure to harmful materials. The establishment of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration in 1971 marked a significant turning point in construction safety, resulting in a decline in workplace fatalities. However, evolving construction methodologies and digital transformations demand continuous research to enhance worker protection and mitigate emerging risks. This study conducts a longitudinal bibliometric analysis to examine the evolution of construction safety research from 1972 to 2025. Using a dataset of 14,174 journal publications from Scopus, the analysis identifies key research trends, technological advancements, and regulatory shifts that have shaped the field. Findings reveal a transition from basic safety regulations to AI-driven hazard detection, digital twins, and IoT-enabled safety monitoring. The study also identifies key contributors, including prominent countries. By tracing both historical and contemporary research trends, this study offers insights into knowledge gaps and provides guidance on future directions. The findings provide valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and industry professionals, supporting the development of research-informed safety strategies and the integration of emerging technologies in an increasingly complex industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Construction Management – Future Innovations, Methods, Techniques and Technologies)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 7896 KB  
Review
Embodied Impacts in Buildings: A Systematic Review of Life Cycle Gaps and Sectoral Integration Strategies
by Tsvetelina Spasova Bacheva and Javier F. Raposo Grau
Buildings 2025, 15(10), 1661; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15101661 - 15 May 2025
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5545
Abstract
The growing focus on operational energy efficiency in the building sector has revealed a critical gap in addressing embodied impacts—carbon emissions and energy demands associated with the production, construction, use, and end-of-life stages of buildings. This research addresses this gap by introducing an [...] Read more.
The growing focus on operational energy efficiency in the building sector has revealed a critical gap in addressing embodied impacts—carbon emissions and energy demands associated with the production, construction, use, and end-of-life stages of buildings. This research addresses this gap by introducing an integrated framework encouraging collaboration across academia, industry, and policymakers. Based on a systematic analysis of current research, the study identifies trends and provides actionable recommendations to enhance embodied impacts assessments. The findings reveal limited representation in key areas like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and policy frameworks, alongside a strong geographical imbalance in research, with 60% of the investigations originating from only five countries. Life cycle stages beyond “cradle-to-gate” remain marginally explored, with only 39% concerning end-of-life or reuse phases. Moreover, 65% of stakeholder engagement is confined to LCA specialists and building designers, highlighting the need for broader participation. This study proposes a comprehensive framework promoting a holistic approach to embodied impacts, advocating their integration into academic curricula and urging industry professionals to adopt collaborative and sustainable practices. By clarifying sectoral gaps and outlining targeted pathways for integration, this study provides a foundation for translating embodied impact research into practical application and regulatory frameworks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resilient Urban and Architecture Design: Strategies for Low-Carbon and Climate-Adaptive Cities)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 20680 KB  
Article
Hybrid Machine Learning Model for Predicting the Fatigue Life of Plain Concrete Under Cyclic Compression
by Lucas Rodrigues Lunardi, Paulo Guilherme Cornélio, Lisiane Pereira Prado, Caio Gorla Nogueira and Emerson Felipe Felix
Buildings 2025, 15(10), 1618; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15101618 - 11 May 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1785
Abstract
Accurately predicting the fatigue life of concrete is crucial for ensuring the safety and durability of structural elements subjected to cyclic loading. Traditional empirical models often struggle to capture the complex interactions between mechanical properties and loading conditions, particularly the influence of frequency. [...] Read more.
Accurately predicting the fatigue life of concrete is crucial for ensuring the safety and durability of structural elements subjected to cyclic loading. Traditional empirical models often struggle to capture the complex interactions between mechanical properties and loading conditions, particularly the influence of frequency. This study introduces a hybrid machine learning model based on the stacking ensemble strategy, integrating Support Vector Regression (SVR), Random Forest (RF), and Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) to enhance prediction accuracy. A dataset of 891 experimental results from the literature was utilized, incorporating four key input variables: compressive strength, stress ratio, maximum stress-to-strength ratio, and loading frequency. The hybrid model demonstrated superior performance (R2 = 0.965, RMSE = 0.19), outperforming individual models and established predictive equations. SHAP analysis validated the model’s interpretability and emphasized the necessity of accounting for loading frequency. This study contributes a robust and generalizable tool for fatigue life prediction within the defined input domain, offering valuable insights for engineering design and structural assessment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Structural Analysis and Design of Civil Structures)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

38 pages, 2697 KB  
Systematic Review
A Systematic Review on the Research and Development of Adaptive Buildings
by Yaolin Lin, Ling Xu, Wei Yang, Lin Tian and Melissa Chan
Buildings 2025, 15(10), 1593; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15101593 - 8 May 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4739
Abstract
Rapid urbanization and industrialization have led to great changes to the climate, such as global warming, urban heat islands, and frequent fluctuations in ambient temperature, and also a large amount of building energy consumption. Adaptive building provides an appropriate solution to maintain low [...] Read more.
Rapid urbanization and industrialization have led to great changes to the climate, such as global warming, urban heat islands, and frequent fluctuations in ambient temperature, and also a large amount of building energy consumption. Adaptive building provides an appropriate solution to maintain low energy consumption under various indoor and outdoor conditions and therefore has increasingly gained attention recently. Yet there is no clear definition on adaptive buildings and the current literature often focuses on the building envelope and overlooks buildings’ mechanical system, which is also an important part of the building system for responding to the indoor requirements and outdoor conditions. This article presents a systematic review on the research and development of adaptive buildings to address the identified research gaps. Firstly, it introduces and discusses the definition and evolution of the concept of adaptive building. Secondly, it reviews the adaptive building envelope technologies of roof, wall and window. Thirdly, it investigates the research progress on the adaptive mechanical system, especially lighting and air-conditioning systems. Lastly, it demonstrates practical applications of adaptive buildings and provides recommendations on future research directions on adaptive buildings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Building Energy-Saving Technology—3rd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 4424 KB  
Article
“True” Accessibility Barriers of Heritage Buildings
by Samir E. Chidiac and Mouna A. Reda
Buildings 2025, 15(9), 1528; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15091528 - 2 May 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4361
Abstract
Heritage buildings, which symbolize the pride of a nation, were built prior to the development of current standards, including those for accessibility. As nations strive for equity, diversity, and inclusion, creating barrier-free environments, including heritage buildings, becomes imperative. This study aims to identify [...] Read more.
Heritage buildings, which symbolize the pride of a nation, were built prior to the development of current standards, including those for accessibility. As nations strive for equity, diversity, and inclusion, creating barrier-free environments, including heritage buildings, becomes imperative. This study aims to identify the “true” accessibility barriers of heritage buildings. Accordingly, a three-part study was conducted: review current standards and best practices; document and investigate the accessibility lived experiences of people with different abilities in heritage buildings; and analyze and discuss the data. The findings revealed that 19%, 17%, and 64% of reported “true” barriers per building were attributed to the conflict between accessibility and heritage preservation, accessibility standard clarity/specificity, and accessibility standard compliance, respectively. In comparison, accessibility-trained professionals attributed 16%, 39%, and 45% of their assessments to the same categories. A significant number of accessibility barriers in heritage buildings can be mitigated by applying current standards. The accessibility needs of people with cognitive/intellectual disabilities are the least addressed and understood by the standards and accessibility-trained professionals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

43 pages, 9566 KB  
Article
Large Concrete Rubble as a New Structural Construction Material: Opportunities and Digital Processes for Load-Bearing Walls
by Maxence Grangeot, Malena Bastien-Masse, Corentin Fivet and Stefana Parascho
Buildings 2025, 15(9), 1437; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15091437 - 24 Apr 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4376
Abstract
Concrete is amongst the most wasted materials on earth, mainly due to building demolitions. Currently, after a building’s end of life, concrete is crushed to be used as replacement gravel in new concrete mixes or for backfilling. Aiming to increase the circularity of [...] Read more.
Concrete is amongst the most wasted materials on earth, mainly due to building demolitions. Currently, after a building’s end of life, concrete is crushed to be used as replacement gravel in new concrete mixes or for backfilling. Aiming to increase the circularity of the construction industry, this article presents design explorations and a design-to-construction process for building single-leaf masonry walls from large flat demolition concrete rubble, thus avoiding the need for further crushing after initial demolition. The proposed process augments the capabilities of conventional construction machinery with new digital control and sensing devices that are widely available on the market and at low cost. The design-to-construction process is implemented through methods of physical prototyping and load testing of a full-scale demonstrator to benchmark the construction precision and the structural, environmental, and productivity performances. The results highlight the viability and scalability of the approach, calling for a more systematic reuse of concrete rubble as it allows for the construction of low-carbon masonry structures while diverging part of concrete waste from downcycling and landfilling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Concrete Technology for Sustainable Architecture)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 4313 KB  
Review
Enhancing Concrete Sustainability: A Critical Review of the Performance of Recycled Concrete Aggregates (RCAs) in Structural Concrete
by Alireza Alibeigibeni, Flavio Stochino, Marco Zucca and Fernando López Gayarre
Buildings 2025, 15(8), 1361; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15081361 - 19 Apr 2025
Cited by 49 | Viewed by 12146
Abstract
In the context of sustainable construction, recycled concrete aggregates (RCAs), including both fine and coarse fractions derived from construction and demolition waste (CDW), are gaining traction due to their potential to mitigate environmental impacts by reducing reliance on natural aggregates and minimizing waste. [...] Read more.
In the context of sustainable construction, recycled concrete aggregates (RCAs), including both fine and coarse fractions derived from construction and demolition waste (CDW), are gaining traction due to their potential to mitigate environmental impacts by reducing reliance on natural aggregates and minimizing waste. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the effects of RCAs on the mechanical and durability properties of concrete, including compressive and tensile strengths, modulus of elasticity, and resistance to environmental degradation. The review highlights that the presence of adhered mortar and higher porosity in RCAs generally leads to reduced mechanical performance and durability. However, pretreatment methods—mechanical, chemical, and thermal—along with optimized mix designs and the use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) have shown to significantly improve the concrete properties of RCAs. Additionally, recent studies on carbon dioxide (CO2) capture through the accelerated carbonation of RCAs offer promising environmental benefits. Life cycle assessment (LCA) analyses reveal reductions in energy use, CO2 emissions, and material costs when RCAs are properly processed and locally sourced. Despite challenges related to RCA quality variability, the review identifies pathways for the effective use of RCAs in structural applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Advanced Concrete Materials in Construction)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 7905 KB  
Article
Rheological and Environmental Implications of Recycled Concrete Powder as Filler in Concrete 3D Printing
by Tiago Canavarro Cavalcante, Romildo Dias Toledo Filho and Oscar Aurelio Mendoza Reales
Buildings 2025, 15(8), 1280; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15081280 - 14 Apr 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2166
Abstract
3D printing with concrete has been accounted as a foremost strategy to mitigate low productivity, workforce shortage, and high waste generation in the construction industry. However, substantial environmental impacts related to high cement content in printable mixtures have received minor concern so far. [...] Read more.
3D printing with concrete has been accounted as a foremost strategy to mitigate low productivity, workforce shortage, and high waste generation in the construction industry. However, substantial environmental impacts related to high cement content in printable mixtures have received minor concern so far. An interesting prospect is the use of recycled concrete powders (RCP) to decrease cement content through their fineness and high specific surface area, which can potentially enhance rheological properties for 3D printing. However, their effects on cementitious mixtures greatly depend on their origin. This research investigated two distinct RCPs to replace 50% of Portland cement in pastes. On cementitious pastes, rotational rheometry, isothermal calorimetry, and a Life Cycle Inventory assessment were conducted. Printability tests on mortars evaluated the effects of RCP on extrudability and buildability. The results showed intensified early hydration for RCP pastes and up to a three-fold increase in static yield stress and higher dynamic yield stresses, regardless of origin. The viscosity of RCP pastes varied in relation to packing density. Extrudability and buildability can be compromised using RCP due to higher yield stress. The LCI assessment indicated a potential decrease of up to 62% in CO2 emissions using RCPs. Therefore, if adequate rheological adjustments are employed in the mix design of RCP mixtures, this material emerges as a feasible strategy to formulate 3D printable mixtures with a lower environmental footprint. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Cement-Based Materials)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 5036 KB  
Article
Impact of Corrosion on the Behaviour of Reinforced Concrete Buildings
by Ana Caixinhas, João Tomé, José Melo, Gonçalo Marreneca and André Furtado
Buildings 2025, 15(8), 1267; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15081267 - 12 Apr 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1928
Abstract
Corrosion significantly contributes to the deterioration of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. This work investigates its impact on the seismic behaviour of RC buildings. A simplified numerical simulation strategy was developed and validated, analysing two columns with corrosion rates of 0% and 20%, based [...] Read more.
Corrosion significantly contributes to the deterioration of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. This work investigates its impact on the seismic behaviour of RC buildings. A simplified numerical simulation strategy was developed and validated, analysing two columns with corrosion rates of 0% and 20%, based on existing experimental research found in the literature. Subsequently, five distinct scenarios were developed, incorporating various corrosion rates of 0%, 10%, and 20%, applied to a structure designed in accordance with the Eurocode 8. Nonlinear pushover analyses were conducted to derive capacity curves and bilinear curves, focusing on key parameters such as maximum strength and corresponding drift, initial stiffness, secant stiffness, yield force and drift. Displacement and drift profiles per floor were analysed at the significant damage performance point (SD). The results indicate a clear negative impact of corrosion on structural performance, evidenced by reduced capacity to withstand deformations and lateral forces, alongside an increased likelihood of damage to non-structural elements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 1074 KB  
Article
Impact of Wooden Stadium Design on Spectators’ Perception and Satisfaction: A Multidimensional Analysis of Audience Experience
by Xueyan Xiao, Xiaolong Chen, Hongfeng Zhang, Cora Un In Wong and Bei Sun
Buildings 2025, 15(7), 1204; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15071204 - 7 Apr 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2944
Abstract
In modern stadium design, wood materials have received increasing attention due to their affinity with nature. Based on the pro-nature design hypothesis, this study explores how wood stadium design perception affects spectators’ spectator satisfaction through biophilicity, and analyzes its mechanism of action in [...] Read more.
In modern stadium design, wood materials have received increasing attention due to their affinity with nature. Based on the pro-nature design hypothesis, this study explores how wood stadium design perception affects spectators’ spectator satisfaction through biophilicity, and analyzes its mechanism of action in the four dimensions of visual, olfactory, tactile, and perceptual wood design perception. By analyzing 641 samples, structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to explore the effects of wood design perception on multiple sensory dimensions. The findings suggest that (1) four-dimensional wood design perceptions positively affect stadium spectator satisfaction, and (2) biophilic affinity plays a mediating role in four-dimensional wood design perceptions affecting stadium spectator satisfaction. This study enriches the theoretical framework of the pro-natural design hypothesis, provides insights into the potential of wooden stadium design to enhance spectator experience, and provides new empirical evidence for the field of architectural and environmental psychology. By revealing the emotional role played by biophilicity in multi-sensory dimensions, it has important practical guidance for enhancing spectator satisfaction, optimizing spatial experience design, and promoting the integration of architectural design with the natural environment in sports stadiums, which has broad social and cultural value. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Timber in the City: Interior Design and City Environment Development with Wood Materials)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 6755 KB  
Article
Evaluating the Influence of Alfa Fiber Morphology on the Thermo-Mechanical Performance of Plaster-Based Composites and Exploring the Cost–Environmental Effects of Fiber Content
by Othmane Horma, Mohammed Drissi, Boutahar Laaouar, Sara El Hassani, Aboubakr El Hammouti and Ahmed Mezrhab
Buildings 2025, 15(7), 1187; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15071187 - 4 Apr 2025
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1611
Abstract
The construction industry’s escalating energy demands and greenhouse gas emissions underscore the need for sustainable, high-performance building materials. This study investigates the incorporation of locally sourced alfa fibers (AFs) into plaster-based composites to enhance thermal insulation, reduce environmental impact, and lower production costs. [...] Read more.
The construction industry’s escalating energy demands and greenhouse gas emissions underscore the need for sustainable, high-performance building materials. This study investigates the incorporation of locally sourced alfa fibers (AFs) into plaster-based composites to enhance thermal insulation, reduce environmental impact, and lower production costs. Three distinct AF morphologies—small (<5 mm), medium (10 ± 5 mm), and large (20 ± 5 mm)—were incorporated at fixed mass ratios, and their effects on key material properties were systematically evaluated. The results indicate that integrating AFs into plaster reduces composite density by up to 16.5%, improves thermal characteristics—lowering thermal conductivity and diffusivity by up to 52%—and diminishes both CO2 emissions and production costs. The addition of fibers also enhances flexural strength (up to 40%) through a fiber bridging mechanism that mitigates crack propagation, although a general decline in compressive strength was observed. Notably, composites containing medium and large fibers achieved significantly lower densities (~1050 kg/m3) and superior thermal insulation (~0.25 W/mK) compared with those with small fibers, with the largest fibers delivering the greatest thermal performance at the expense of compressive strength. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of AF–plaster composites as environmentally responsible, high-performance building materials, while emphasizing the need to carefully balance mechanical trade-offs for structural applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development and Properties of Sustainable Composite Materials for Building Applications)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2719 KB  
Review
Adaptation of Connection Systems for Integration with Engineered Wood Products in Buildings: A Systematic Review
by Harshani Dissanayake, Tharaka Gunawardena and Priyan Mendis
Buildings 2025, 15(7), 1131; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15071131 - 31 Mar 2025
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2430
Abstract
Connection systems are a critical component of buildings constructed with engineered wood products (EWPs), influencing structural integrity, durability, and construction efficiency. This systematic review categorises connection types into mechanical, adhesive, and interlocking systems and evaluates their structural performance, adaptability in prefabrication, applicable design [...] Read more.
Connection systems are a critical component of buildings constructed with engineered wood products (EWPs), influencing structural integrity, durability, and construction efficiency. This systematic review categorises connection types into mechanical, adhesive, and interlocking systems and evaluates their structural performance, adaptability in prefabrication, applicable design standards, and modelling approaches. The review synthesises recent trends in EWP connection research, highlighting key developments in digital fabrication, reversible joints, and sustainable construction. Findings emphasise the need for standardisation, performance validation, and hybrid systems to support the wider adoption of prefabricated timber structures in environmentally responsible building practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 545 KB  
Article
Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Construction Industry Among Undergraduate Construction Management Students: Case Study—A Study of Future Leaders
by Jonghoon Kim, Soomin Park, Sarah Moukhliss, Kwonsik Song and Dan Koo
Buildings 2025, 15(7), 1095; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15071095 - 27 Mar 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5030
Abstract
This study investigates the perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) among undergraduate construction management students who are poised to become future leaders in the construction industry. As the industry increasingly adopts AI technologies to enhance project planning, design, site management, and safety, understanding students’ [...] Read more.
This study investigates the perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) among undergraduate construction management students who are poised to become future leaders in the construction industry. As the industry increasingly adopts AI technologies to enhance project planning, design, site management, and safety, understanding students’ attitudes toward these innovations becomes crucial. This research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative survey data with qualitative data to capture the students’ insights on AI’s potential applications, benefits, and challenges within the construction sector. Findings indicate that while students recognize AI’s transformative potential to improve efficiency and safety in construction processes, they also express concerns regarding ethical implications, job displacement, and the necessity of new skills to effectively integrate AI into their future careers. Additionally, this study reveals a significant gap in students’ knowledge about AI technologies and their applications in the construction industry. These insights underscore the importance of incorporating AI-focused curricula in construction management programs to better prepare students for the evolving landscape of the industry. Ultimately, this research contributes to the understanding of how the next generation of construction professionals perceives AI and highlights the need for educational institutions to adapt their programs to equip students with the competencies required for a technology-driven future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 798 KB  
Article
Exploring Barriers to the Adoption of Digital Technologies for Circular Economy Practices in the Construction Industry in Developing Countries: A Case of Ghana
by Hayford Pittri, Godawatte Arachchige Gimhan Rathnagee Godawatte, Osabhie Paul Esangbedo, Prince Antwi-Afari and Zhikang Bao
Buildings 2025, 15(7), 1090; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15071090 - 27 Mar 2025
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 10011
Abstract
Despite the potential of digital transformation to enhance resource efficiency and waste reduction, numerous barriers hinder its adoption. This study examines the critical barriers to digital technology adoption for circular economy implementation in the construction industry in developing countries, using Ghana as a [...] Read more.
Despite the potential of digital transformation to enhance resource efficiency and waste reduction, numerous barriers hinder its adoption. This study examines the critical barriers to digital technology adoption for circular economy implementation in the construction industry in developing countries, using Ghana as a case study. A structured quantitative approach was employed, integrating mean score ranking, exploratory factor analysis, and fuzzy synthetic evaluation to assess the severity of identified barriers. Data were collected from construction professionals through structured surveys, and statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, Excel, and RStudio to determine the criticality of the barriers. The fuzzy synthetic evaluation revealed that financial and adoption constraints emerged as the most critical barrier group, followed closely by institutional and knowledge barriers, while technological and market limitations and regulatory and organizational challenges also exhibited significant impediments. In response, this study develops a strategic framework comprising targeted solutions such as financial incentives, capacity building, regulatory reforms, and technological infrastructure development. This framework addresses not only the barriers but also the associated risks, including financial uncertainty, data security threats, and regulatory gaps. This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of digital technology adoption in CE practices and offers practical recommendations for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and academics seeking to foster sustainable construction practices in the construction industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

38 pages, 9827 KB  
Review
Applications and Trends of Machine Learning in Building Energy Optimization: A Bibliometric Analysis
by Jingyi Liu and Jianfei Chen
Buildings 2025, 15(7), 994; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15070994 - 21 Mar 2025
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 6061
Abstract
With the rapid advancement of machine learning (ML) technologies, their innovative applications in enhancing building energy efficiency are increasingly prominent. Utilizing tools such as VOSviewer and Bibliometrix, this study systematically reviews the body of the related literature, focusing on the key applications and [...] Read more.
With the rapid advancement of machine learning (ML) technologies, their innovative applications in enhancing building energy efficiency are increasingly prominent. Utilizing tools such as VOSviewer and Bibliometrix, this study systematically reviews the body of the related literature, focusing on the key applications and emerging trends of cutting-edge ML techniques, including deep learning, reinforcement learning, and unsupervised learning, in optimizing building energy performance and managing carbon emissions. First, this paper delves into the role of ML in building performance prediction, intelligent energy management, and sustainable design, with particular emphasis on how smart building systems leverage real-time data analysis and prediction to optimize energy usage and significantly reduce carbon emissions dynamically. Second, this study summarizes the technological evolution and future trends of ML in the building sector and identifies critical challenges faced by the field. The findings provide a technology-driven perspective for advancing sustainability in the construction industry and offer valuable insights for future research directions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 6226 KB  
Article
Assessment of Biogenic Healing Capability, Mechanical Properties, and Freeze–Thaw Durability of Bacterial-Based Concrete Using Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus sphaericus, and Bacillus megaterium
by Izhar Ahmad, Mehdi Shokouhian, David Owolabi, Marshell Jenkins and Gabrielle Lynn McLemore
Buildings 2025, 15(6), 943; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15060943 - 17 Mar 2025
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5705
Abstract
Microbial-induced carbonate precipitation technology allows concrete to detect and diagnose cracks autonomously. However, the concrete’s compact structure and alkaline environment necessitate the adoption of a proper carrier material to safeguard microorganisms. In this study, various bacterial strains, including Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus sphaericus, and [...] Read more.
Microbial-induced carbonate precipitation technology allows concrete to detect and diagnose cracks autonomously. However, the concrete’s compact structure and alkaline environment necessitate the adoption of a proper carrier material to safeguard microorganisms. In this study, various bacterial strains, including Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus sphaericus, and Bacillus megaterium, were immobilized in lightweight expanded clay aggregates (LECA) to investigate their effect on the self-healing performance, mechanical strength, and freeze–thaw durability. Self-healing concrete specimens were prepared using immobilized LECA, directly added bacterial spores, polyvinyl acetate (PVA) fibers, and air-entraining admixture (AEA). The pre-cracked prisms were monitored for 224 days to assess self-healing efficiency through ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) and surface crack analysis methods. A compressive strength restoration test was conducted by pre-loading the cube specimens with 60% of the failure load and re-testing them after 28 days for strength regain. Additionally, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were conducted to analyze the precipitate material. The findings revealed that self-healing efficiency improved with the biomineralization activity over the healing period demonstrated by the bacterial strains. Compression and flexural strengths decreased for the bacterial specimens attributed to porous LECA. However, restoration in compression strength and freeze–thaw durability significantly improved for the bacterial mixes compared to control and reference mixes. XRD and SEM analyses confirmed the formation of calcite as a self-healing precipitate. Overall, results indicated the superior performance of Bacillus megaterium followed by Bacillus sphaericus and Bacillus subtilis. The findings of the current study provide important insights for the construction industry, showcasing the potential of bacteria to mitigate the degradation of concrete structures and advocating for a sustainable solution that reduces reliance on manual repairs, especially in inaccessible areas of the structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Properties and Durability of Concrete Materials and Structures)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 5838 KB  
Article
A Study on the Spatial Perception and Inclusive Characteristics of Outdoor Activity Spaces in Residential Areas for Diverse Populations from the Perspective of All-Age Friendly Design
by Biao Yin, Lijun Wang, Yuan Xu and Kiang Chye Heng
Buildings 2025, 15(6), 895; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15060895 - 13 Mar 2025
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3283
Abstract
With the transformation of urban development patterns and profound changes in population structure in China, outdoor activity spaces in residential areas are facing common issues such as obsolete infrastructure, insufficient barrier-free facilities, and intergenerational conflicts, which severely impact residents’ quality of life and [...] Read more.
With the transformation of urban development patterns and profound changes in population structure in China, outdoor activity spaces in residential areas are facing common issues such as obsolete infrastructure, insufficient barrier-free facilities, and intergenerational conflicts, which severely impact residents’ quality of life and hinder high-quality urban development. Guided by the principles of all-age friendly and inclusive design, this study innovatively integrates eye-tracking and multi-modal physiological monitoring technologies to collect both subjective and objective perception data of different age groups regarding outdoor activity spaces in residential areas through human factor experiments and empirical interviews. Machine learning methods are utilized to analyze the data, uncovering the differentiated response mechanisms among diverse groups and clarifying the inclusive characteristics of these spaces. The findings reveal that: (1) Common Demands: All groups prioritize spatial features such as unobstructed views, adequate space, diverse landscapes, proximity accessibility, and smooth pavement surfaces, with similar levels of concern. (2) Differentiated Characteristics: Children place greater emphasis on environmental familiarity and children’s play facilities, while middle-aged and elderly groups show heightened concern for adequate space, efficient parking management, and barrier-free facilities. (3) Technical Validation: Heart Rate Variability (HRV) was identified as the core perception indicator for spatial inclusivity through dimensionality reduction using Self-Organizing Maps (SOM), and the Extra Trees model demonstrated superior performance in spatial inclusivity prediction. By integrating multi-group perception data, standardizing experimental environments, and applying intelligent data mining, this study achieves multi-modal data fusion and in-depth analysis, providing theoretical and methodological support for precisely optimizing outdoor activity spaces in residential areas and advancing the development of all-age friendly communities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 11904 KB  
Article
Dynamic Mechanical Properties and Deformation Mechanisms of Lightweight High-Strength TWIP Steel
by Jia Yang, Xiyue Liu, Yu Tang, Shuxin Bai, Yicong Ye, Manchao He and Min Xia
Buildings 2025, 15(6), 897; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15060897 - 13 Mar 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2082
Abstract
This study developed a twinning-induced plasticity (TWIP) steel characterized by lightweight, high strength, and high toughness. Tensile tests were conducted at strain rates ranging from 10−4 to 6500 s−1 using a universal testing machine and a Hopkinson bar to evaluate the [...] Read more.
This study developed a twinning-induced plasticity (TWIP) steel characterized by lightweight, high strength, and high toughness. Tensile tests were conducted at strain rates ranging from 10−4 to 6500 s−1 using a universal testing machine and a Hopkinson bar to evaluate the material’s mechanical properties. A Johnson–Cook (J-C) constitutive model was developed based on the mechanical performance data for high-strain behavior. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) were employed to analyze the microstructural evolution and fracture mechanisms of tensile specimens. The results show that the TWIP steel exhibits positive strain rate sensitivity (PSRS) under both quasi-static and dynamic strain rates. At high strain rates, the yield strength increased from 1133.0 MPa to 1430.6 MPa, and the tensile strength rose from 1494.3 MPa to 1640.34 MPa. The J-C model fits well at strain rates of 1000 s−1 and 3000 s−1, but fitting errors increase at higher strain rates due to the competition between thermal softening and strain hardening. XRD results reveal no significant phase transformation occurred during deformation, with twinning being the dominant mechanism. As the strain rate increased, deformation twins appeared in the material’s microstructure, inducing plastic deformation during tensile testing. The twin volume fraction increases progressively with the strain rate. At high strain rates, secondary twins emerge and intersect with primary twins, refining the grains through mutual interaction. The TWIP effect enhances the material’s mechanical performance by improving its strength and ductility while maintaining its lightweight nature. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Properties of Advanced Metal Structures in Civil Infrastructure)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 10033 KB  
Article
The Role of Mechanical Ventilation in Indoor Air Quality in Schools: An Experimental Comprehensive Analysis
by Vincenzo Ballerini, Maddalena Coccagna, Matteo Bisi, Antonella Volta, Lorenzo Droghetti, Eugenia Rossi di Schio, Paolo Valdiserri and Sante Mazzacane
Buildings 2025, 15(6), 869; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15060869 - 11 Mar 2025
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3328
Abstract
Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a vital role in supporting both the physical and mental well-being of individuals in enclosed spaces, and the role of mechanical ventilation systems has gained increasing attention due to building design’s focus on energy efficiency and thus airtight [...] Read more.
Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a vital role in supporting both the physical and mental well-being of individuals in enclosed spaces, and the role of mechanical ventilation systems has gained increasing attention due to building design’s focus on energy efficiency and thus airtight constructions. This study investigated the pre–post effects of installing a heat recovery mechanical ventilation system (MVHR) on indoor air quality in a high school classroom in Ferrara, Italy. The analysis focused on experimental measurements of temperature (T), relative humidity (RH), and carbon dioxide (CO2) both inside and outside the same classroom, which had constant occupancy (17 students) for an entire school year, allowing a comparison between natural and mechanical ventilation. With a comprehensive approach, particulate matter (PM2.5), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and radon levels (Rn) were monitored as well, after the installation of the MVHR. By comparing natural and mechanical ventilation, the study highlights the strengths and limitations of the ventilation system implemented, together with an evaluation of the system’s energy consumption, including a 2 kW post-heating battery. In terms of results, the MVHR demonstrated clear benefits in managing CO2 levels and improving sensory, olfactory, and psychophysical well-being, as well as the attention levels of students. In detail, under natural ventilation, peak concentrations exceeded 4500 ppm, while mechanical ventilation kept them below 1500 ppm. The average CO2 concentration during occupancy dropped from 2500 ppm to around 1000 ppm, achieving a 62% reduction. However, beneficial effects were not observed for other parameters, such as PM2.5, VOCs, or radon. The latter displayed annual average values around 21 Bq/m3 and peaks reaching 56 Bq/m3. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

42 pages, 5335 KB  
Review
Strategies for Driving the Future of Educational Building Design in Terms of Indoor Thermal Environments: A Comprehensive Review of Methods and Optimization
by Shihai Wu, Pengzhi Zhou, Ying Xiong, Chengye Ma, Dizi Wu and Weizhen Lu
Buildings 2025, 15(5), 816; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15050816 - 4 Mar 2025
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3906
Abstract
This comprehensive review critically examines current methodologies and optimization strategies for designing indoor thermal environments in educational buildings amid the challenges of global climate change and energy demands. The paper evaluates existing research methods, such as numerical simulations, data-driven models, and field measurements, [...] Read more.
This comprehensive review critically examines current methodologies and optimization strategies for designing indoor thermal environments in educational buildings amid the challenges of global climate change and energy demands. The paper evaluates existing research methods, such as numerical simulations, data-driven models, and field measurements, revealing significant limitations in addressing the complex and dynamic nature of educational environments. It highlights the overemphasis on energy efficiency while neglecting user comfort and individual differences, such as students’ physiological and psychological needs. The review underscores the necessity of integrating human-centered design strategies, climate adaptability, and interdisciplinary approaches to improve building performance and enhance student well-being. Future research should focus on developing multimodal data fusion frameworks, applying AI-based optimization, and incorporating emerging technologies like BIM and IoT for dynamic management. By advocating for more adaptable and sustainable thermal environment strategies, this study provides a foundation for advancing educational building design in response to climate change and energy crises. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frameworks, Tools, Methods, Indicators, and Considerations for Evaluating Circular Economy in Buildings)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 4741 KB  
Article
Analyzing the Environmental Impacts and Empirical Limitations of Green Remodeling with Life Cycle Assessment
by Jaemoon Kim, Wonkyeong Ko, Jaehee Kim, Jiyeon Byun, Seonghoon Nam and Subin Jeong
Buildings 2025, 15(5), 783; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15050783 - 27 Feb 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2187
Abstract
The Government of Korea uses green remodeling (GR) as a central policy for achieving carbon neutrality in the building sector. However, despite GR’s energy-saving benefits, it raises embodied carbon (EC) due to the incorporation of new materials, and there is a lack of [...] Read more.
The Government of Korea uses green remodeling (GR) as a central policy for achieving carbon neutrality in the building sector. However, despite GR’s energy-saving benefits, it raises embodied carbon (EC) due to the incorporation of new materials, and there is a lack of impact analysis and assessment research. Thus, this study established the GR-LCA methodology to evaluate the environmental impacts (EIs) of GR, including EC. The methodology disaggregated and assessed the effects of EC and energy on GR in terms of GR’s proportion of EC, six EI categories, and the carbon reduction impacts. The analysis revealed that GR’s EC accounted for 10.6%, reducing to 9.89% when EPD materials were used. In terms of the reduction impact across six EIs, GWP was reduced to 0.84 and EP to 0.96. However, ODP, ADP, AP, and POCP, all elevated by high EIs from material inputs, increased to 626.7, 1.04, 1.16, and 250.09, respectively. Ultimately, the carbon reduction in GR was 24.9% when considering only energy usage, and 16.1% when including EC. When EPD materials were applied, the efficiency of reduction improved by an additional 0.6%, indicating a minimal application effect. Based on these findings, the differences in GR’s EC compared to new constructions, reduction limitations, and potential improvements were discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 35591 KB  
Article
Physical Appearance Design Evaluation of Community Emotional Healing Installations Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process–Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation Method
by Tanhao Gao and Phillip Bernstein
Buildings 2025, 15(5), 773; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15050773 - 26 Feb 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1766
Abstract
An increasing number of residents are burdened with psychological pressure, and the majority of them refuse to seek professional mental help, falling to a “silent majority” of the untreated. This “silent majority” lives in every corner of cities, and public installations scattered in [...] Read more.
An increasing number of residents are burdened with psychological pressure, and the majority of them refuse to seek professional mental help, falling to a “silent majority” of the untreated. This “silent majority” lives in every corner of cities, and public installations scattered in various spaces have the potential to become community emotional healing touchpoints. Therefore, it is urgent to establish a comprehensive evaluation system for emotional healing installations. This research establishes a physical appearance evaluation system for healing installations based on affinity analysis, thereby combining the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation (FCE) to construct data matrixes and quantitative analysis. The AHP results revealed some trends, including that placing environment is the most critical design indicator for healing installations, saturation is more closely associated with healing than color temperature, and small-scale installations have better healing efficacy. FCE ranked the combined weights of design indicators and revealed preference differences between Western and Eastern scholars regarding emotional healing. Eastern scholars show a clear preference for low-saturation colors and place significant emphasis on the multifunctionality of healing installations. Meanwhile, Western scholars have a stronger inclination toward healing shapes. Furthermore, this research conducts cross-category analysis and sensitive analysis to provide rigorous foundations for future healing research and offer guidance to future designers in healing installation design. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 20838 KB  
Article
Building Change Detection in Aerial Imagery Using End-to-End Deep Learning Semantic Segmentation Techniques
by Tee-Ann Teo and Pei-Cheng Chen
Buildings 2025, 15(5), 695; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15050695 - 23 Feb 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3901
Abstract
Automatic building change detection is essential for updating geospatial data, urban planning, and land use management. The objective of this study is to propose a transformer-based UNet-like framework for end-to-end building change detection, integrating multi-temporal and multi-source data to improve efficiency and accuracy. [...] Read more.
Automatic building change detection is essential for updating geospatial data, urban planning, and land use management. The objective of this study is to propose a transformer-based UNet-like framework for end-to-end building change detection, integrating multi-temporal and multi-source data to improve efficiency and accuracy. Unlike conventional methods that focus on either spectral imagery or digital surface models (DSMs), the proposed method combines RGB color imagery, DSMs, and building vector maps in a three-branch Siamese architecture to enhance spatial, spectral, and elevation-based feature extraction. We chose Hsinchu, Taiwan as the experimental site and used 1:1000 digital topographic maps and airborne imagery from 2017, 2020, and 2023. The experimental results demonstrated that the data fusion model significantly outperforms other data combinations, achieving higher accuracy and robustness in detecting building changes. The RGB images provide spectral and texture details, DSMs offer structural and elevation context, and the building vector map enhances semantic consistency. This research advances building change detection by introducing a fully transformer-based model for end-to-end change detection, incorporating diverse geospatial data sources, and improving accuracy over traditional CNN-based methods. The proposed framework offers a scalable and automated solution for modern mapping workflows, contributing to more efficient geospatial data updating and urban monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in AI, Digitization, Robotics, IoT, BIM, and Spatial Modeling in Building Sciences)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 8927 KB  
Article
AI-Enabled Cognitive Predictive Maintenance of Urban Assets Using City Information Modeling—Systematic Review
by Oluwatoyin O. Lawal, Nawari O. Nawari and Omobolaji Lawal
Buildings 2025, 15(5), 690; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15050690 - 22 Feb 2025
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4073
Abstract
Predictive maintenance of built assets often relies on scheduled routine practices that are disconnected from real-time stress assessment, degradation and defects. However, while Digital Twin (DT) technology within building and urban studies is maturing rapidly, its use in predictive maintenance is limited. Traditional [...] Read more.
Predictive maintenance of built assets often relies on scheduled routine practices that are disconnected from real-time stress assessment, degradation and defects. However, while Digital Twin (DT) technology within building and urban studies is maturing rapidly, its use in predictive maintenance is limited. Traditional preventive and reactive maintenance strategies that are more prevalent in facility management are not intuitive, not resource efficient, cannot prevent failure and either underserve the asset or are surplus to requirements. City Information Modeling (CIM) refers to a federation of BIM models in accordance with real-world geospatial references, and it can be deployed as an Urban Digital Twin (UDT) at city level, like BIM’s deployment at building level. This study presents a systematic review of 105 Scopus-indexed papers to establish current trends, gaps and opportunities for a cognitive predictive maintenance framework in the architecture, engineering, construction and operations (AECO) industry. A UDT framework consisting of the CIM of a section of the University of Florida campus is proposed to bridge the knowledge gap highlighted in the systematic review. The framework illustrates the potential for CNN-IoT integration to improve predictive maintenance through advance notifications. It also eliminates the use of centralized information archiving. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue BIM Methodology and Tools Development/Implementation)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 1826 KB  
Review
Current Insight on Eco-Friendly Concrete: A Review
by Shaheda T. Akter and Allan Hawas
Buildings 2025, 15(5), 682; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15050682 - 21 Feb 2025
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4456
Abstract
Concrete is known for its high structural performance and workability, but its environmental impact is significant in terms of the utilization of virgin resources and greenhouse gas emissions. To mitigate the negative climate effects of concrete, it is essential to continuously develop and [...] Read more.
Concrete is known for its high structural performance and workability, but its environmental impact is significant in terms of the utilization of virgin resources and greenhouse gas emissions. To mitigate the negative climate effects of concrete, it is essential to continuously develop and adopt eco-friendly practices in the construction sector. This paper provides an overview of current practices, opportunities, and challenges for developing and adopting eco-friendly concrete. Promising paths for eco-friendly concrete construction include using supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) instead of energy-intensive traditional cement, incorporating locally available, waste-based materials rather than virgin resources, adopting recycling and reusing techniques, employing advanced technologies, such as performance-enhanced concrete and carbon capture and utilization techniques, etc. Among the studied materials, some waste materials such as rice husk ash, mine tailings, and municipal solid waste ash have found potential and demand further research. The adoption of new materials in concrete and attributing them in practices faces significant social, economic, and regulatory challenges. Addressing these obstacles requires interdisciplinary research and development, the establishment of clear standards and incentives, and educating skilled professionals and efforts to raise social awareness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 8500 KB  
Article
Modular Steel Buildings Based on Self-Locking-Unlockable Connections Seismic Performance Analysis
by Xingwang Liu, Qingkai Meng, Liwen Xu, Yang Liu and Xinpeng Tian
Buildings 2025, 15(5), 678; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15050678 - 21 Feb 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2877
Abstract
This paper introduces a new self-locking-unlockable modular building with an inter-module connection, and its seismic performance is investigated. The new connection can realize fast connection and unlocking during construction through exceptional design. In this paper, taking the Tianjin Binhai Apartment project as the [...] Read more.
This paper introduces a new self-locking-unlockable modular building with an inter-module connection, and its seismic performance is investigated. The new connection can realize fast connection and unlocking during construction through exceptional design. In this paper, taking the Tianjin Binhai Apartment project as the background, for the actual force situation of the new connection, considering the influence of corrugated steel plate stiffness, a simplified model of the connection is constructed by using multi-fold elastic connection, and the corrugated steel plate stiffness is simulated with equivalent support. In the MIDAS Gen 2021 software, the five-story and six-story structural models using traditional rigid connections and new connections were established, respectively, and reaction spectrum analysis was carried out. Meanwhile, seismic waves that comply with codes were selected for dynamic time course analysis. The results show that the stress ratios of all components of the new connection model and the traditional rigid model are less than 1. Among them, the maximum stress ratios of both floor beams are 0.745 and 0.725, respectively; the maximum stress ratios of the modular columns are 0.655 and 0.494, respectively; the stress ratios of the ceiling beams are all less than 0.5; and the two models show good strength and stiffness reserves, following the design principle of strong columns and weak beams and verifying the reliability of the new connection model. Meanwhile, it is found that the inter-story displacement angle of the six-story structure with the new connections is less than the normative value under the action of rare earthquakes, and the difference in top displacement is about 18% compared with that of the rigid structure, so it is suggested that the new connections can be applied within the height of six stories. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Modern Structural Engineering: From Materials to Building Structures)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 7064 KB  
Article
Enabling Sufficiency Through Smart Locks: Transforming Office Occupancy and Building Management for Energy Savings
by Andrea Giovanni Mainini, Francesco Pittau, Elena Casolari, Matthieu Simon Majour, Matteo Cavaglià, Riccardo Riva, Giulia Amendola, Alberto Speroni, Juan Diego Blanco Cadena and Tiziana Poli
Buildings 2025, 15(5), 669; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15050669 - 21 Feb 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2803
Abstract
In the aftermath of the global pandemic, the widespread embrace of flexible working models has led to suboptimal occupancy levels in office buildings. Despite this shift, traditional space management practices persist, contributing to increased energy consumption per person. This study investigates how integrating [...] Read more.
In the aftermath of the global pandemic, the widespread embrace of flexible working models has led to suboptimal occupancy levels in office buildings. Despite this shift, traditional space management practices persist, contributing to increased energy consumption per person. This study investigates how integrating smart lock systems can enhance space utilization within flexible working environments, ultimately reducing energy use. A case study of an office building in Milan, Italy, is used to evaluate the proposed approach. The methodology includes a comprehensive assessment of building design and functionality, coupled with impact analyses using Building Energy Modeling and Life Cycle Assessment. The results indicate that innovative occupancy management strategies can achieve energy savings of from 9% up to 14% compared to baseline operational energy use, leading to a reduction in CO2 emissions of 7.5 to 17.6 kgCO2eq/m2 depending on occupancy scenarios. The life cycle assessment reveals that, while smart locks introduce an initial embodied carbon footprint of approximately 2 tons of CO2, that is recovered through the savings obtained after a few months of installation. The findings demonstrate that this methodology is effective in buildings that allow both functional and temporal flexibility, enabling partial shutdowns and the redirection of certain services when not in use, ultimately improving energy efficiency through lean interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 7637 KB  
Article
Elastic Body Spring Method (EBSM) for the Stability Analysis of the Global Vipassana Pagoda in Mumbai, India
by Alessandro Gandolfi, Natalia Pingaro and Gabriele Milani
Buildings 2025, 15(5), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15050653 - 20 Feb 2025
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 1681
Abstract
This paper presents an innovative procedure for the stability assessment of masonry domes, aiming at simplifying the modelling and the computational stages of structural analysis. It exploits a macroscopic approach to discretise masonry, specifically using elastic bodies linked by nonlinear interfaces. The latter [...] Read more.
This paper presents an innovative procedure for the stability assessment of masonry domes, aiming at simplifying the modelling and the computational stages of structural analysis. It exploits a macroscopic approach to discretise masonry, specifically using elastic bodies linked by nonlinear interfaces. The latter are made by axial and, when needed, tangential trusses—in turn characterised by an elastic perfectly plastic/brittle behaviour—which constitute the joints connecting homogenised elastic macroblocks. The objective is—by employing low-cost commercial Finite Element software—to predict the behaviour of a masonry curved structure up to failure, maintaining the computational complexity low and the approach accessible to a common user. The process enables not only the quantification of damage at failure but also the tracking of its evolution within the structure, by examining axial forces found in the trusses at each load step. The method allows the modelling of the response of any kind of masonry structure under imposed loads or displacements. Its efficacy is proven on a paradigmatic dome (Global Vipassana Pagoda, Mumbai, India) by comparing the results with limit analysis precedent studies. Finally, the major reliability of a 3D approach is demonstrated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Scientific Developments on the Mechanics of Masonry Structures)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 9276 KB  
Article
Unlocking Physical Resilience Capacities of Building Systems: An Enhanced Network Analysis Approach
by Lingzhi Li, Jiaqi Wang, Jingfeng Yuan, Tiantian Gu, Sheng Ling and Hanzhang Zhan
Buildings 2025, 15(4), 641; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15040641 - 19 Feb 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1307
Abstract
Fostering the physical resilience of building systems and ensuring their functionality during disasters is paramount. To unlock the physical resilience capacities of building systems, this study applied an enhanced network-based approach comprising four steps: (1) classifying the building systems and developing a comprehensive [...] Read more.
Fostering the physical resilience of building systems and ensuring their functionality during disasters is paramount. To unlock the physical resilience capacities of building systems, this study applied an enhanced network-based approach comprising four steps: (1) classifying the building systems and developing a comprehensive building system network can be achieved by treating building components as nodes and their functional, resource, information, and physical interdependence as connections; (2) characterizing the physical resilience capacities of building systems through robustness and redundancy; (3) setting up both deliberate and random attack scenarios and revealing the robustness of building systems by using the relative size of maximum connected subgraphs and global network efficiency; and (4) proposing a novel redundancy index to reveal the capacities to maintain function in the face of disruptions. A real-world case study was conducted to analyze the physical resilience of a building system under disruptions, illustrating the feasibility of the proposed approach. The case study identified several key systems and operation strategies for enhancing the resilience of building systems. In summary, the proposed approach contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the building system and quantitatively reveals its robustness and redundancy capacities. Practically, these findings offer valuable insights and practical strategies for facility managers to foster resilient and sustainable operations during building operations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 4033 KB  
Review
Digital Technologies and Circular Economy in the Construction Sector: A Review of Lifecycle Applications, Integrations, Potential, and Limitations
by Cagla Keles, Fernanda Cruz Rios and Simi Hoque
Buildings 2025, 15(4), 553; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15040553 - 12 Feb 2025
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 8177
Abstract
The circular economy implementation in the built environment is hindered by the complexity of CE strategies and unique nature of the construction industry. Digital technologies have been explored as promising solutions to aid decision making and enable circular solutions in the architecture, engineering, [...] Read more.
The circular economy implementation in the built environment is hindered by the complexity of CE strategies and unique nature of the construction industry. Digital technologies have been explored as promising solutions to aid decision making and enable circular solutions in the architecture, engineering, and construction sector. The literature on both circular economy and digital technology fields has grown exponentially in the past few years, and there is a need for a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art applications, integrations, potential, and limitations of digital technologies in the circular economy context. Through a systematic literature review, this study identified ten key digital technologies to enable circularity in the building sector: building information modeling, spatial data acquisition, artificial intelligence and machine learning, Internet of Things, blockchain, digital twin, augmented and virtual realities, digital platform/marketplace, material passports, and additive manufacturing and digital fabrication. In this study, we review current applications, discuss their integrations, match digital technology opportunities with circular economy barriers, and map the digital technologies applications along a building’s lifecycle. Blockchain and material passport technologies demonstrated potential to enable circular economy strategies throughout the whole building’s lifecycle, but their application remains limited in the construction industry. Building information modeling was found to be at the core of most technological integrations, but more research is needed to understand the impact of such integrations in supporting circular economy policies, standards, and assessment methods. Finally, collaborative research efforts are needed to unveil the risks of digitalization in the built environment, including risks concerning privacy and cybersecurity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 9463 KB  
Article
Uncertainty and Prediction Intervals of New Machine Learning Approach for Non-Destructive Evaluation of Concrete Compressive Strength
by Seyed Alireza Alavi and Martin Noel
Buildings 2025, 15(4), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15040544 - 11 Feb 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2289
Abstract
This paper presents a machine learning (ML) model for predicting concrete strength using a combination of two non-destructive testing (NDT) methods: ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) and rebound number (RN). The model was developed using an extensive and diverse dataset and is the first [...] Read more.
This paper presents a machine learning (ML) model for predicting concrete strength using a combination of two non-destructive testing (NDT) methods: ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) and rebound number (RN). The model was developed using an extensive and diverse dataset and is the first such model to consider the effect of three different sample types: cubic, cylindrical, and core samples. This study is also the first of its kind to present an in-depth analysis of the results to quantify model uncertainty, which is an important prerequisite for its use in practice. Accordingly, two ML models were trained using 620 data points from the aforementioned sample types. The prediction intervals and associated uncertainties of the ML-based approach were thoroughly examined. Validation with the testing dataset showed that 93% of the testing data points for the combined cylindrical and cubic dataset fell within the 95% prediction interval, indicating strong alignment with expected results. Based on the findings, a roadmap is also proposed for future work. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Advanced Concrete Materials in Construction)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

40 pages, 11500 KB  
Article
Innovative Approaches to Urban Revitalization: Lessons from the Fort Bema Park and Residential Complex Project in Warsaw
by Janusz Sobieraj and Dominik Metelski
Buildings 2025, 15(4), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15040538 - 10 Feb 2025
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5975
Abstract
The revitalization of Fort Bema in Warsaw’s Bemowo district addresses the urgent need for sustainable urban development in degraded post-military areas. This study aims to explore innovative urban development strategies that effectively integrate historic preservation with modern housing solutions. Using a case study [...] Read more.
The revitalization of Fort Bema in Warsaw’s Bemowo district addresses the urgent need for sustainable urban development in degraded post-military areas. This study aims to explore innovative urban development strategies that effectively integrate historic preservation with modern housing solutions. Using a case study approach, the research employs SWOT analysis and examines public–private partnerships (PPP) to evaluate revitalization strategies. Key findings include an analysis of the factors that contributed to the successful transformation of 148 hectares of land, including the construction of the “Parkowo-Leśne” housing estate with 1637 apartments with a total area of 118,255.97 m2 and volume of 669,982.73 m3. In addition, the Osmańczyka Street Housing Estate was developed on an area of 11.7 hectares, providing over 100,000 m2 of residential space and buildings with a total volume of approximately 548,000 m3. The positive net migration trends observed during this period further confirm the development and attractiveness of the Bemowo district as a desirable residential area. These developments enhance community engagement and urban cohesion. The study concludes that flexible planning methods and stakeholder collaboration are essential to successful urban transformation. It recommends that similar projects adopt these strategies to balance development pressures with heritage conservation, thereby addressing housing shortages while preserving cultural significance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Trends in the Revitalization of Buildings and Post-Industrial Facilities)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 1964 KB  
Article
Development of an Optimal Machine Learning Model to Predict CO2 Emissions at the Building Demolition Stage
by Gi-Wook Cha and Choon-Wook Park
Buildings 2025, 15(4), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15040526 - 9 Feb 2025
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2294
Abstract
The construction industry accounts for approximately 28% of global CO2 emissions, and emission management at the building demolition stage is important for achieving carbon neutrality goals. Systematic studies on the demolition stage, however, are still lacking. In this study, research on the [...] Read more.
The construction industry accounts for approximately 28% of global CO2 emissions, and emission management at the building demolition stage is important for achieving carbon neutrality goals. Systematic studies on the demolition stage, however, are still lacking. In this study, research on the development of optimal machine learning (ML) models was conducted to predict CO2 emissions at the demolition stage. CO2 emissions were predicted by applying various ML algorithms (e.g., gradient boosting machine [GBM], decision tree, and random forest), based on the information on building features and the equipment used for demolition, as well as energy consumption data. GBM was selected as a model with optimal prediction performance. It exhibited very high accuracy with R2 values of 0.997, 0.983, and 0.984 for the training, test, and validation sets, respectively. The GBM model also showed excellent results in generalization performance, and it effectively learned the data patterns without overfitting in residual analysis and mean absolute error (MAE) evaluation. It was also found that features such as the floor area, equipment, wall type, and structure significantly affect CO2 emissions at the building demolition stage and that equipment and the floor area are key factors. The model developed in this study can be used to support decision-making at the initial design stage, evaluate sustainability, and establish carbon reduction strategies. It enables efficient data collection and processing and provides scalability for various analytical approaches compared to the existing life cycle assessment (LCA) approach. In the future, it is deemed necessary to develop ML tools that enable comprehensive assessment of the building life cycle through system boundary expansion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 5387 KB  
Review
Leveraging Digital Twins for Enhancing Building Energy Efficiency: A Literature Review of Applications, Technologies, and Challenges
by Amina Sghiri, Maryam Gallab, Safae Merzouk and Saliha Assoul
Buildings 2025, 15(3), 498; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15030498 - 5 Feb 2025
Cited by 37 | Viewed by 11855
Abstract
Amid global efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, improving the energy efficiency of buildings has emerged as a strategic priority. Buildings account for approximately 40% of global energy consumption and a significant share of CO2 emissions, making them key targets for sustainable [...] Read more.
Amid global efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, improving the energy efficiency of buildings has emerged as a strategic priority. Buildings account for approximately 40% of global energy consumption and a significant share of CO2 emissions, making them key targets for sustainable practices. This study employs a systematic literature review combined with a bibliometric analysis to explore the transformative potential of digital twins in building energy efficiency. The review synthesizes key contributions of digital twins in real-time monitoring, predictive modeling, renewable energy integration, and proactive maintenance while addressing critical challenges such as interoperability, scalability, and privacy. The originality of this work lies in its integrated approach, which identifies emerging trends and research gaps, providing actionable insights to guide the future adoption of digital twins in the building sector. These findings highlight the pivotal role of digital twins in fostering sustainable and intelligent energy practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 6630 KB  
Article
Sustainable Design of a Tiny House: Using a Life Cycle Assessment Approach to Compare the Environmental Performance of Industrial and Earth-Based Building Systems
by Letizia Dipasquale, Giada Giuffrida, Natalia Jorquera Silva, Riccardo Maria Pulselli and Rosa Caponetto
Buildings 2025, 15(3), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15030491 - 5 Feb 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5130
Abstract
The increased concerns about climate change, diminishing natural resources, and environmental degradation call for deep research into new environmentally friendly building systems that use natural or recycled materials. The article presents an assessment of the environmental and climatic benefits associated with the construction [...] Read more.
The increased concerns about climate change, diminishing natural resources, and environmental degradation call for deep research into new environmentally friendly building systems that use natural or recycled materials. The article presents an assessment of the environmental and climatic benefits associated with the construction of a tiny house made of quincha, a building system based on a wooden structure filled with locally sourced earth and straw. The tiny house is located in the Elqui Valley, in the Chilean region of Coquimbo, and it is designed to be compact, functional, comfortable, and efficient. The study uses a life cycle approach to assess the environmental impacts of building construction, maintenance, and end-of-life treatment, comparing the adopted quincha solution with four hypothetical scenarios using industrial, prefabricated, and/or synthetic construction materials currently adopted in the region. The thermal performance of all the analyzed solutions is also included in order to provide insights into the impact of the operational phase. This paper demonstrates that the quincha solution, in the face of lower thermal insulation compared to the other prefabricated solutions (the U-value of the quincha wall is 0.79 W/m2K while the U-value of the best prefabricated wall is 0.26 W/m2K), has higher thermal inertia (time lag (TL) and decrement factor (DF) are, respectively, 6.97 h and 0.60, while other systems have a TL below 4 h and DF higher than 0.81). For a quantitative environmental evaluation, the carbon footprint (global warming potential), water footprint, and embodied energy indicators are assessed through LCA, which takes into account the mass of the materials and their emission factors. The effectiveness of the quincha solution is also reflected in environmental terms; in fact, it is found to have the lowest carbon footprint (2635.47 kgCO2eq) and embodied energy (42.7 GJ) and the second-lowest water footprint (2303.7 m3). Moreover, carbon sequestration values, which are assessed by estimating the carbon contained in building systems using wood and straw, demonstrate that the quincha tiny house is the only solution that can theoretically reach carbon neutrality (with its carbon storage value at −5670.21 kgCO2eq). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials and Technologies for Regenerative Built Environments)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 3490 KB  
Review
Assessing Post-Fire Damage in Concrete Structures: A Comprehensive Review
by Eneye A. Ibrahim, Dale Goff, Ali Keyvanfar and Mohammad Jonaidi
Buildings 2025, 15(3), 485; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15030485 - 4 Feb 2025
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6499
Abstract
Bridge fires present unique challenges due to their potential for catastrophic structural failures, leading to extensive traffic disruptions, economic losses, and, in some cases, loss of life. In the aftermath of a fire incident, assessing the structural integrity and future viability of concrete [...] Read more.
Bridge fires present unique challenges due to their potential for catastrophic structural failures, leading to extensive traffic disruptions, economic losses, and, in some cases, loss of life. In the aftermath of a fire incident, assessing the structural integrity and future viability of concrete bridges has become a paramount concern for civil engineers and safety inspectors. The critical decision to rehabilitate or demolish a fire-damaged structure hinges on accurately assessing the extent of damage incurred. Enhancing the fire resilience of concrete structures is a critical endeavor within civil engineering, necessitating accurate evaluation methods to analyze conditions after fire exposure. Focusing on concrete bridges, this study aimed to establish a comprehensive review of research on the effects of fire, providing engineers with the necessary means to develop guidelines for post-fire assessment to enhance safety and operational readiness. It proposes an in-depth examination of various methods as strategic decision-making tools. The assessment involves estimating the temperature, the extent of damage to concrete, and the reduction in the strength of both concrete and reinforcement. To achieve this, a detailed review of the existing literature on the impact of fire on concrete and its steel reinforcements is conducted. Current post-fire assessment tools have also been evaluated to improve the efficiency of the evaluation process. This study establishes a systematic post-fire assessment review framework that incorporates assessment information domains (including non-destructive testing, destructive testing, advanced computational modeling, and digital-twin technology) to provide a practical solution for accurately determining the safety and operational readiness of fire-damaged concrete bridges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Scientific Developments in Structural Damage Identification)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 15826 KB  
Article
Research on Chinese Traditional Architectural Culture and Inheritance Strategy: A Case Study of the Goulou Cluster of Yue Dialects in Guangxi
by Yuan Kuang, Feifei Zheng, Chengzhi Lin and Yue Hu
Buildings 2025, 15(3), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15030489 - 4 Feb 2025
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3181
Abstract
Traditional Chinese villages and architectural cultural resources are abundant. Against the backdrop of rapid development in contemporary socioeconomic and urbanization processes, rural construction is facing multiple challenges such as imbalanced urban–rural development, gradually fading cultural traditions, and disharmonious living environments. The cultural elements [...] Read more.
Traditional Chinese villages and architectural cultural resources are abundant. Against the backdrop of rapid development in contemporary socioeconomic and urbanization processes, rural construction is facing multiple challenges such as imbalanced urban–rural development, gradually fading cultural traditions, and disharmonious living environments. The cultural elements of rural architecture urgently need more systematic and effective protection, integration, and reuse. Therefore, the precise extraction of traditional architectural features and their translation applications in modern contexts are gradually becoming key issues in current research and practice fields. This study takes traditional architecture of the Goulou Cluster of Yue Dialects in Guangxi, China, as an example. Through field investigations and mathematical and GIS spatial analysis, architectural samples were identified and extracted typologically, and a database of traditional architecture was constructed, delineating architectural cultural zones and summarizing type characteristics to create a genealogy map. Based on the results of the architectural genealogy study, modern translation pathways for traditional architecture were proposed through spatial modeling, technical analysis, and iterative optimization. Modern translation experiments were conducted on selected typical villages and their traditional buildings, exploring the application model system of traditional architecture in modern contexts. This study not only deepens the scientific understanding of the genealogy zoning characteristics of traditional architecture in the Goulou Cluster of Yue Dialects in Guangxi but also provides a reference for the modern translation and optimization path of traditional architecture, providing important theoretical basis and application guidance for promoting the inheritance and innovation of rural culture, and realizing the protection and updating of rural architectural style. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewal Design and Challenge of Urban and Rural Livable Environments in the Age of Population Shrinkage)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

38 pages, 11460 KB  
Article
Simulation-Based Optimization of Crane Lifting Position and Capacity Using a Construction Digital Twin for Prefabricated Bridge Deck Assembly
by Dae-Ho Jang, Gi-Tae Roh, Chi-Ho Jeon and Chang-Su Shim
Buildings 2025, 15(3), 475; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15030475 - 3 Feb 2025
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4815
Abstract
The growing adoption of off-site construction methods has increased the critical role of mobile cranes within the construction sector. This study develops a Construction Digital Twin (CDT) framework to optimize crane lifting positions and capacities for the installation of prefabricated bridge decks. By [...] Read more.
The growing adoption of off-site construction methods has increased the critical role of mobile cranes within the construction sector. This study develops a Construction Digital Twin (CDT) framework to optimize crane lifting positions and capacities for the installation of prefabricated bridge decks. By integrating 3D site modeling, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and crane simulations within the Unity game engine, the CDT overcomes the limitations of conventional 2D-based planning by providing a three-dimensional representation of site conditions. An exhaustive search method identifies optimal crane configurations, enhancing precision and efficiency. Simulation calibration using video analysis of real bridge deck installations aligns crane speed and cycle times with actual operations, improving reliability. Case studies demonstrate the CDT’s ability to reduce crane operation costs by 27% when employing a smaller capacity crane while maintaining operational efficiency. Additional DFA-focused simulations with varying deck dimensions revealed a potential 10% cost reduction by optimizing crane operations and deck design strategies. The CDT framework supports early-stage planning, reduces operational risks, and contributes to cost-effective and safer construction practices, offering a scalable solution adaptable to various construction scenarios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying article 1-50 on page 1 of 11.
Go to page     1 2 3 4 5 chevron_right last_page
Back to TopTop