Modular Construction in Portugal: Analysis of Advantages, Structural Typologies, and Technical Challenges

Modular construction has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional building methods in Portugal, driven by the need for faster, more sustainable, and economically viable solutions. This article critically analyzes the advantages, structural typologies, and technical challenges associated with this methodology. Through technical review and analysis of practical case studies, steel, precast concrete, CLT timber, and hybrid systems were evaluated based on criteria such as seismic resistance, sustainability, assembly time, and connection complexity. The results indicate that modular construction offers significant gains in efficiency, budget control, and environmental performance, especially when integrated with technologies such as BIM and factory automation. However, relevant obstacles remain, including cultural barriers, legislative gaps, logistical difficulties, and technical limitations specific to each structural typology. Cases such as the B&B Hotel in Guimarães demonstrate the potential of the modular approach, while projects like the one in Loures highlight the challenges of its implementation. The article concludes that, to consolidate modular construction in Portugal, it is essential to promote technical standardization, adapt financing models, and invest in structural innovation. The trend points to the growing use of steel and CLT in sustainable and seismic-resistant solutions, reinforcing the strategic role of modular construction in the future of Portuguese civil engineering.