Freeform buildings differ from conventional buildings in a way that they have irregularly shaped facades. Oftentimes, freeform projects run behind schedule and over the budget. This study aimed at exploring factors that influence time and cost overruns on freeform buildings. The study employed questionnaire surveys to collect data from experts with freeform project experience, and the responses were analyzed using R statistical program. The study used exploratory factor analysis to identify the most critical latent factors to freeform project success. The study found factors related to application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and fabrication of freeform components as very crucial to timely completion, whereas factors related to personnel involved as essential to completing within budget. Additionally, the study summarized time overrun variables into three latent factors; uniqueness, capabilities and practices of the parties involved, and level of preparation for the project. The cost overrun latent factors were: cost uncertainty, client decisions, extent of preparation, and delay. Understanding the causes of time and cost overruns on freeform buildings identified in this study can help clients make informed decisions regarding undertaking freeform projects as well as help consultants and contractors minimize the risk of encountering such overruns.

The primary drawback of concrete lies in its low tensile strength, prompting the development of various solutions to enhance this aspect. A notable approach is the utilization of Prestressed Reinforced Concrete (PRC) with tendons, aimed at bolstering its tensile strength. As the use of diverse tendon types in the PRC continues to surge, a review becomes imperative to delve into this evolution. Therefore, this study delved into the engineering characteristics, performance, and evolution of different tendon varieties, encompassing both steel and composite options. Despite certain drawbacks associated with employing composite materials such as Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) tendons - such as heightened costs, limited availability of composite materials, and intricate manufacturing processes - there are distinct advantages and merits to incorporating FRP composite tendons in the realm of construction. In this respect, Carbon FRP tendons exhibited superior strength, comparable to their steel counterparts. Glass FRP tendons, lacking metallic components, possessed non-magnetic properties, rendering them resistant to corrosion. Additionally, Aramid FRP tendons boasted low flammability and exceptional resistance to elevated temperatures. Lastly, Basalt FRP tendons offered sustainability, rust resistance, and non-corrosiveness. The findings derived from this review study serve as a valuable resource for researchers seeking to advance the applications of steel tendons and FRP composite materials within the construction industry.

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore and prioritize the key client values within contracting services for reconstructing the built environment in post-disaster situations. Design/methodology/approach A literature review, semi-structured interviews and questionnaire survey were included in this study. A comparative analysis was used to obtain different perspectives between public and private sectors. Findings A total of 39 client values were identified in this study. Clients for disaster reconstruction services put more emphasis on values such as timeliness, availability of resources, competency, building a trust-based relationship, financial stability, and communication techniques than contract price. Public and private clients have a different perspective regarding the importance of the identified values, while these are not statistically significant for the most important values. Research limitations/implications The construction literature is focussed on business-as-usual rather than post-disaster reconstruction. To ensure that reconstruction programmes after a disaster are successfully implemented, it is necessary to identify and prioritize the client values within contracting services. Focussing the attention of the service providers on these values is believed to have the greatest impact on the programmes’ success. Practical implications Understanding the client values identified by this study can aid contractors to better prepare for reconstruction programmes and provide improved services to clients. Originality/value A number of important client values within contracting services that appear to have a bearing on the success of disaster reconstruction programmes were identified in this study.