Modular construction involves creating sections (modules) of a building in a factory, then transporting them to the construction site for assembly. Unlike traditional construction, which builds directly on-site from the ground up, modular construction enables much of the work to be completed off-site, substantially reducing on-site construction time and disruptions. On-site foundations are built in parallel with module production, further reducing on-site construction time by allowing site preparation and production to progress simultaneously.
Modular buildings can be either permanent or temporary, depending on the design and intended use. Permanent modular buildings are designed with foundations and materials suitable for long-term use, often indistinguishable from fully concrete-built structures traditionally built in the south of Europe. In contrast, temporary modular buildings are designed to be moved, using lighter materials and temporary foundations, making them ideal for temporary applications such as construction site offices or emergency housing.
While permanent modular buildings can be relocated, it is more complex and costly than relocating a structure specifically built to be mobile. This flexibility allows modular construction to adapt to both temporary and permanent requirements, offering versatility based on project goals.
Since foundations and site preparation can be done in parallel with module production in the factory, a modular building is typically completed in about half the time of traditional construction. Depending on the size of the project, the entire process can take just a few months, with the on-site assembly phase usually taking up to four weeks.
Site preparation ensures the location is ready for modular assembly, typically assembled with cranes. Before the modular units are delivered and assembled, several on-site preparations are needed, which can occur in parallel with modular production. These preparations include creating a solid foundation, setting up utilities such as water, electricity, and sewage connections, and grading the site for proper drainage and stability. Additionally, access roads must be established for delivery trucks transporting the modules.
Each modular unit is typically pre-wired and pre-plumbed at the factory, with the necessary systems for electricity, water, and sewage installed before delivery. Once the modules are assembled on-site, the utility connections are linked to the building’s systems. This involves hooking up the pre-installed electrical wiring, plumbing, and HVAC systems to the main lines for water, electricity, and sewage, ensuring all services are fully functional. The process is quick, often requiring only a few days of work to complete the connections.
The modular components included in our buildings are built to the same or even higher standards than the ones in traditional buildings, undergoing rigorous quality checks. Our partners are certified and fulfil various European norms and standards such as the ISO 9001:2015. As a result of the full control over the conditions, production methods and single unit quality examination, each module resembles the same level of quality, which corresponds with establishing a very rigid, yet easy to transport product.
Most of our solutions take a hybrid approach to construction combining both modular construction technologies and traditional building methods. While wood is the primary material used for the majority of the structure, we may incorporate concrete and steel for specific areas. The specific quality of materials can be tailored to meet the customer’s preferences and requirements. This combination allows us to create flexible, high-quality modular buildings tailored to the specific needs of our customers.
The buildings will be constructed according to local building codes and safety regulations. The wooden structures we provide fulfil European Fire Safety standards. The timber load-bearing elements of the modules, such as floors, ceilings and walls were tested in the renowned Institute for Building Technology (ITB) in the Fire Testing Department, according to the EN 13501-2:2016 norm.
The modular components we deliver will comply with local building codes involving seismic safety standards. We meet the European standards for the design of structures for earthquake resistance (EN 1998 Eurocode 8). Our partners have the capability to adjust the rigidness of the modules and Horizontal Forces, acting on the whole building according to detailed examination, testing and calculations of local terrain conditions, which leads to the construction of buildings susceptible to fully meeting the increased demands of seismic behaviour.
Before transportation, the modules undergo rigorous quality checks and are securely fastened to ensure stability while being moved. Specialized transport methods, such as heavy-duty trucks or cranes, are used to minimize risk during transit. On-site, the assembly process is carefully managed, with modules being lifted and placed with precision. The modular design ensures that each module is structurally sound, and once assembled, the building meets all safety and building code requirements, ensuring a secure and stable final structure.
Incorporating modular technology into buildings offers significant financial advantages. Although the initial cost may be similar to traditional methods, it offers other financial advantages both short-term and long-term that can surpass traditional construction:
1. Faster project timelines result in a faster return on investment
a. Reduces the costs of holding and financing such as interest in loans, insurance and property taxes which directly impact the bottom line.
b. Assets can start generating income sooner, which in the case of rental business models (build to rent, senior living or student housing) can be a significant sum.
2. Minimal to no cost deviations
a. Efficient supply chain and logistics, allowing for materials to be bought in bulk minimising the risk of raw material price increases.
b. Reduced delays due to its controlled factory environment making adverse weather conditions have little impact, hence lowering the risk of budget overruns.
c. Modular is significantly less impacted by labour cost increases due to its rapid on-site assembly.
d. Standardised modular designs make costs more predictable than highly customised traditional construction projects.
3. Reduced operational cost
a. Buildings are designed to be energy-efficient, with advanced insulation and HVAC systems.
b. The use of sustainable materials and the possibility of including solar panels also contribute to long-term savings, making modular buildings more cost-effective to operate over time.
One primary factor is the building’s size and layout, as larger, more complex designs require more materials and labour. The choice of materials also plays a significant role: higher-quality finishes or specialized materials will increase costs. Location impacts cost too, especially if the site is remote, leading to higher transportation expenses.
Customisation options, such as added features or unique architectural elements, can drive up the price. For optimal pricing, we recommend working with us to adapt any existing project designs or starting the design with us from scratch, using our standard modules. This can significantly lower costs through reduced material waste, streamlined production, and faster assembly times.
Modular construction is highly flexible, allowing for unique layouts and designs to suit your needs, however using our standard modules will give us economies of scale and result in lower costs. Our partners offer a wide range of customisation options including layouts, materials, finishes and features while ensuring the structure complies with building codes. While there are extensive customisation options, the more standardised the project, the more cost-effective it will be.
Options range from high-end materials to standard finishes, similar to those available in traditional construction. We can tailor the materials used depending on our client’s budget, style preferences and functional needs.
Buildings that incorporate modular components reduce material waste, causes less disturbance for local communities, and use eco-friendly materials to create energy-efficient buildings. Since modules are built in a controlled factory environment, materials can be ordered in precise quantities, reducing over-ordering and excess. Due to its factory environment, any waste is recycled and, in some cases, reused.
Together with our partners we can produce net-zero energy buildings with materials that are highly energy-efficient. Wood is a natural insulator, making our buildings energy efficient. Additionally, we have the possibility of including large amounts of solar panels in our buildings, lower operational costs over time.
Our modular projects can be designed to meet LEED, WELL or BREEAM sustainability certifications. Our partner, Átomo Capital Partners, specialises in providing consultancy for projects that aim to obtain these certifications, helping to meet all the necessary criteria.
