Modular Construction Designing: Tips Leading to Success

Modular construction occurs when prefabricated units are stacked in a planned order, and this technique often requires specific design requirements.

FREMONT, CA: Modular architecture has seen a boom in popularity in recent years, and one may have dealt with an uptick in clients asking to integrate it into their design projects. Architecture firms must follow best practices for excellent outcomes on a modular design. Here are a few practical starting points.

1. Know if the Modular Approach Fits the Project

The modular buildings of today are highly customizable. Plus, as much of the work takes place off-site, projects will proceed unhindered by poor weather. The timelines are often vividly shorter, too. This benefit makes the modular architecture perfect if the customer needs to start using the new building as soon as possible to optimize the return on investment.

Given these advantages, modular construction is not the best solution for any project. A potential drawback is that communication between various partners could take place earlier than several would expect. This occurrence means that ventures must gain maximum financing faster—and certain investors will object to that fact.

2. Learn how modular methods vary from conventional construction methods.

Modular construction occurs when prefabricated units are stacked in a planned order, and this technique often requires specific design requirements. For example, architects must ensure that critical components, such as wiring and plumbing, remain viable and usable after modular parts have arrived. Some architecture companies have been designing all designs on a standardized grid from the outset. This style is also in line with the conventional architecture.

3. Design How to Move and Position Sections

Modular parts arrive at their places nearly done and ready for occupation. Most production firms are familiar with the building codes of the region and design pods accordingly. As a consequence, the process of gaining planning consent is always quicker than conventional approaches afford. However, there are still some particulars to work out concerning the movement and placement of the pieces.

As an architect working on a modular project, one can offer guidance on the right ways to break the building into sections that meet local constraints. Then, based on the venue's location, one can contact the transport authority to find the most suitable ways to move the pods. This aspect may involve shutting down part of the road to facilitate a plant or maybe shifting the parts at a low-traffic period. Next, take a look at the choices for sourcing the cranes to stack each pod in the right configuration. If the architecture firm wants to do several modular projects soon, buying a used crane from a reputable manufacturer might be an excellent way to hold costs down.