Volumetric modular construction
The role of Standards in offsite construction, A review of existing practice and future need, published by BSi in 2019, states: ‘Volumetric modular units are large building elements that can be linked together to form complete buildings without the need for additional superstructure. The internal fit-out, finishes and building services are pre-installed and commissioned in the modules prior to leaving the factory ensuring that defects are minimised and quality control is very high. The external façade, claddings and roof treatments are usually installed onsite. Volumetric units plant rooms or flexible living and working spaces. Applications include commercial offices, public buildings, hotels, airports, sport stadiums, hospitals, universities and schools.’
See also: Volumetric unit and Modular buildings.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Custom build home.
- Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA).
- Factory-made housing.
- Flat pack.
- 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
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
New and updated CLC building safety guidance.
New UK National Buildings Database.
Building Safety Wiki Interviews
Chief executive of the British Woodworking Federation.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief explanation 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.