Composite construction
The role of Standards in offsite construction, A review of existing practice and future need, published by BSi in 2019, defines composite construction (or hybrid construction) as: ‘A generic term covering a wide variety of construction techniques, particularly where two different materials are used in combination to fulfil a specific function. For example, composite floor slabs can compromise in situ concrete with profiled metal decking, which acts as structural reinforcement. These slabs are supported on hot-rolled steel beams. Often, the beams are composite themselves, using shear connectors (normally welded headed studs) to achieve structural efficient with good spanning capability. Composite Construction can also use pre-cast concrete slabs with a composite structural screed.’
See also: Hybrid construction.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Custom build home.
- Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA).
- Factory-made housing.
- Flat pack.
- Hybrid construction.
- Kit house.
- Modern methods of construction.
- Off-site construction.
- Off-site prefabrication of buildings: A guide to connection choices.
- Plug and play skyscrapers.
- Pod.
- Precast.
- Prefabricated structural panels.
- Prefabrication.
- Pre-manufactured value.
- Volumetric unit.
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.