Modular Gets Popular: New Approaches to Off-Site Construction
Modular construction isn’t exactly new—you could buy a mail-order home kit from Sears in 1908. But with BIM and other digital technologies, plus recent advances in precision manufacturing, modular construction is entering a new phase—one that allows for greater customization, more efficiency, and better buildings.
Construction Dive has started a new series exploring the realities and the possibilities for off-site construction today. Their recent column explores the promise of modular for the hospitality industry in particular, an industry that is working to meet increased demand while also facing a shortage of construction workers to build new hotels. Modular strategies offer a great solution.
As the column reports, a modular approach can significantly accelerate your construction schedule. And the inherent qualities of modular—such as great sound insulation—are perfect for hotels. But there are challenges. Lenders can be wary. And you’ll want to find subcontractors that are familiar with modular workflows to get the best results at the least cost.
Modular construction leader Skystone is also featured in the piece. And they were also featured in the General Session at AU Las Vegas 2019. In case you missed it, check out our article Building a Better World: Automation, Innovation, and Intentional Design or watch the AU 2019 General Session recording.
Related learning
Want more details about modular construction and how to make it work for your company? Check out these AU classes:
DfMA and the Industrialization of Construction
Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) is another name for modular construction—the building components are manufactured in a factory, then assembled on the job site. This AU Las Vegas 2019 class shares how governments, designers, contractors, and manufacturers are moving forward with new technologies and connected approaches.
Delivering an Automated Precision Manufacturing Facility for Off-Site Housing Products
Berkeley Group, a long-time residential builder in the UK, launched their Berkeley Modular division as a start-up just a few years ago. Learn how they designed their factory, handled structured data, deployed computational logic, and more.
Skanska’s Journey Towards Industrialized Construction
Global development and construction firm Skanska walks the talk when it comes to modular building strategies. In this session from AU London 2019, they share the benefits, learnings, and best practices for creating homes, buildings, and even viaducts using modular approaches.
