China’s BROAD Group has stunned the world by erecting a 10-story building in just 28 hours using modular “Magic Bricks.”
The 28-Hour Wonder: How BROAD Group Built a Tower Overnight
In Changsha, China, the skyline changed overnight, literally. BROAD Group, a Chinese manufacturing and construction firm, completed a fully functional 10-story apartment building in just 28 hours and 45 minutes. The project, dubbed the “Living Building,” was assembled using modular steel units that were pre-fabricated off-site and bolted together on location like high-tech Lego bricks.
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Each module came pre-installed with:
- Electrical wiring and plumbing
- Fireproof and earthquake-resistant walls
- Ventilation and insulation systems
The secret? A proprietary material called B-CORE slab, made from stainless steel and copper brazing. These slabs are lightweight yet 100 times stronger than conventional materials. The modules, measuring 40 feet long and 8 feet wide, were transported in standard containers and stacked with surgical precision using cranes.
This wasn’t just a speed stunt, it was a showcase of engineering mastery, logistical coordination, and sustainable design.
Why It Matters: Speed, Sustainability & Seismic Safety
The implications of this construction method are profound. Traditional building projects take months or even years. BROAD’s modular approach slashes that timeline by over 90%, reduces labour by 80%, and cuts construction waste by up to 90%.
Key advantages:
- Earthquake resistance: The structure can withstand Level 9 seismic activity.
- Energy efficiency: Built-in air filtration and passive solar design reduce energy consumption.
- Cost savings: The cost per square meter is 30-50% lower than conventional builds.
This method also creates cleaner, safer construction sites, no dust clouds, no jackhammers, and minimal disruption to surrounding communities. It’s a game-changer for urban housing, disaster relief, and infrastructure in remote areas.
BROAD Group believes this technology could scale to 200-story skyscrapers, public buildings, and even mobile hospitals. The company’s vision is not just to build fast but to build better, greener, and smarter.
The Future of Urban Development: Global Disruption Ahead?
As cities grapple with housing shortages, climate change, and aging infrastructure, BROAD’s “Magic Bricks” offer a compelling solution. The ability to mass-produce modular buildings in factory settings and assemble them in days could revolutionize urban planning.
Potential global impacts:
- Affordable housing: Rapid builds could ease housing crises in megacities.
- Disaster response: Emergency shelters and hospitals could be deployed within hours.
- Export potential: BROAD’s technology could be licensed or exported to countries facing construction bottlenecks.
While sceptics raise concerns about architectural uniformity and long-term durability, early results are promising. The Living Building is not just a prototype, it’s a fully operational residential tower, already housing tenants and drawing global attention.
China has once again demonstrated its ability to leapfrog traditional development models, blending speed with sustainability. The question now is: will the rest of the world catch up or be left behind?
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