'An Introduction To Offsite' continued...

This week's focus is on volumetric modular.

Modular construction gets the most press with recent high profile organisations entering the market and is the most common solution people mention or think of when discussing 'offsite'. Although it is important to note that modular is just one of a number of solutions under the 'offsite' umbrella and has it's optimum uses.

For this week’s edition I have decided to go back to basics and explore, what exactly is volumetric modular and what is best used for?

Modular units are typically engineered light gauge steel (hot rolled for taller buildings) boxes that are either bolted or welded together in cage form, formed of floor, roof and wall cassettes (see below image), other material options that are in the market are CLT, timber and shipping containers.

Once the cages / boxes are assembled, they are then fitted out to the required specification in the factory as you would any traditional project. The aim is to fit-out as much as possible 'offsite' i.e. in the factory, in an ideal world everything except loose FFE would be pre-fitted and delivered to site, although cladding is often fitted on site to ensure it is not damaged in transit.

Fully fitted out modules allow a developer to gain the full program advantages associated with an offsite build, much less work is required on the site and the modules can be manufactured whilst the preparation works on the, ground, cores, podiums are undertaken. Modules are then programmed to arrive on site as soon as the preparation works are complete to be rapidly installed and connected ready for use.

The factory controlled nature of the build and fit-out, plus having to follow stringent ISO manufacturing rules mean that the quality achievable by using modular is second to none. (see below, internal shot of a branded hotel room prototype in factory)

In general the modular works best when used on highly repeatable building types such as,

Student Accommodation, Hotels, Schools, Pre-designed Housing, PRS

For the case studies look up Vision Modular Systems, who are pushing the boundaries of modular and in my view the ones to watch for the moment.