China Academy of Building Research was founded in January 1956 based on the former Building Technology Institute, which was set up in 1953.

It has thirteen research institutes, departments or centers, and eight centers authorized by relevant ministries. It has branch academies in Shenzhen City and representative offices in Zhuhai City, Shanghai City, Hong Kong SAR, etc. It has established cooperation with organizations in over 30 countries and regions. There are 55 societies above national third-level under the academy and its affiliated research institutes. It covers 79 research areas and 70 laboratories.