Intelligent construction is one of the most popular research directions in the field of infrastructure engineering for various fields including hydropower and civil engineering projects. Intelligent construction has been used in China in recent years and is essential for the future development of engineering systems and project management. This study defines intelligent construction as the integration of sensors, communication systems, data systems, construction methods and project management to perceive, analyze and control the safety, quality, environmental effects, schedule and construction costs. This article then describes the main characteristics of intelligent construction systems. Current experience shows that the general closed-loop control theory of intelligent construction including perception, analysis, control and continuous optimization leads to current construction activities forming new construction activities from quantitative descriptions and learning from existing activities. This intelligent behavior provides better control of the construction process. Finally, the integration of intelligent construction methods with management decisions leads to new value creation with new intelligent construction methods needed to further develop construction techniques.