Design Considerations for Modular Building Creation

[edit] Introduction

Modular buildings are widely used for a variety of different reasons all over the world. Whether it’s in the health sector, in an educational setting or even as a home, they are extremely versatile structures.The beauty of the modular building is that it can constantly adapt to the ever-changing demands that our world throws at us, which is why thinking of the future is essential.

There are a number of key considerations when a modular building is created to ensure that the best possible structure is achieved.

[edit] The environment

One of the main reasons that people opt for modular buildings is that they are more environmentally friendly to build. They don’t require any timber to be used, and they are created using recyclable material, meaning that once they come to the end of their functional life, they can be recycled and used again.

If the user wants to remain environmentally friendly while using the building, it’s important to design the interior with the environment in mind, too. This means choosing the appropriate heating and air conditioning options if required, as well as opting for greener lighting options.

[edit] Overall design

As a modular building can last for decades, it’s important to think about the future and potentially how the building will be used. Will it need to be relocated at some point? Are there options for expansion of the building?

Due to the nature of many businesses, it is essential that expansion is factored into any modular building construction. This is much cheaper to achieve than creating a new brick and mortar build, and gives the option for easy relocation should the business need to move.

The aesthetics of the building is also easily customised, but it is important that the overall look and feel is confirmed and signed off before the construction begins. This determines how much the project will cost as a whole, so if a budget needs to be followed, this will need to be confirmed.

Modular buildings don’t have to look 'fake', and there are plenty of options that can help the modular build fit in seamlessly with any traditional buildings nearby. Whether it’s cladding or roofing material, there are options that are available to make a modular building look 'traditional'.

[edit] The construction

Ideally, construction of modular buildings should be undertaken using an assembly line process to keep costs down and the impact on the environment as low as possible. This is usually inside a factory to avoid the process being affected by external factors such as the weather or even theft.

Using the correct manufacturing process, the savings should be clear to the individual purchasing the modular build.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• British post-war mass housing.
• Custom build home.
• Design for deconstruction.
• Design for deconstruction, BRE modular show house.
• Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA).
• Futuro House.
• Kit house.
• Modern methods of construction.
• Modular buildings.
• Off-site prefabrication of buildings: A guide to connection choices.
• Open source architectural plans for modular buildings.
• Prefabrication.
• Self build home.
• Structure relocation.
• WikiHouse.
• Y:Cube.
• Y:Cube development in Mitcham.