Modular Construction and Design
Modular construction is a process where portions or elements of a building are constructed off-site under controlled conditions and later transported to the project site. Once transported to the project site, the constructed modular parts are set in place and stitched together to form the building’s structure. A common misconception is that a modular approach sacrifices design innovation and quality for scheduling and budgeting benefits; however, recent project history proves this is not the case. Creative design firms can operate within the parameters of modular construction and still bring unique design to compatible projects while providing numerous advantages to Owners.
Scheduling Benefits, Time is Money
With the building module construction being completed off site, construction can occur simultaneously with the onsite foundation work. This can decrease the traditional construction schedule by as much as 30-50%, allowing for earlier completion and occupancy. With major construction taking place indoors, costly weather delays are also mitigated.
With this approach, the design process is more front end loaded, meaning that all information related to the finishes and furnishings needs to be decided upon earlier. By leveraging their experience in the modular construction process, WORTHGROUP Architects & Designers has established an effective way in communicating and expediting the timeline for the selection process. This up-front collaboration allows for a streamlined approach, as the finishes and furniture are installed within each modular as a completed space, prior to leaving the factory. Upon arriving to the project site, each modular is turn-key ready.
Bottom Line, Modular Construction Saves Your Bottom Line
The increased speed to market of a modular construction approach has been proven time and again, reducing construction schedules, decreasing Contractor general conditions costs, and leading to ROI for the Owner sooner than possible when utilizing conventional construction methods.
In addition to the shortened time-line, factory labor and material rates are typically decreased significantly due to the buying power that the manufacturer possesses with large quantity needs. These savings are then redirected to the Owner.
Additional Benefits to Consider when going Modular
While scheduling and budgeting are noted as the most popular benefits of modular construction, there are other benefits that deserve mention as well. Because the construction is taking place off site and under controlled conditions, the Owner realizes assembly line efficiencies in construction means and methods and reduced material waste versus site-built conditions.
In addition to maximizing resources and minimizing material waste, enhanced quality control is a significant benefit of modular construction. Typically, the construction is taking place under the supervision of continuous Third Party Inspection services, providing certification of each built component as it is completed. Also, because modular buildings are assembled in a controlled environment, the materials are stored in the same controlled environment. This reduces the risk of material defects, while also allowing for tighter quality control procedures to be implemented.
Thinking Outside of the Modular Box, Creative Design
One of the unique aspects of building modular is the ability to standardize aspects of the design and construction while still providing flexibility for the design team to think outside of the individual components. This especially holds true to hotels and properties that need to maintain the integrity of their brand when considering design.
“Working closely with our modular build partners and understanding the standard level of modular construction, we can build off of their systems and configure their modular products in innovative ways to provide our clients with distinctive design solutions.” -Travis Bryan, CEO of WORTHGROUP Architects and Designers.
Modular Construction, an Evolving Solution
The benefits of modular construction are becoming more well-known to Owners and Developers and WORTHGROUP understands the processes, details, and sequencing requirements necessary to make a modular project successful. As modular construction continues to evolve and become more mainstream, we are humbled to be a trusted partner, and resource, for those interested in the process.
If your project has the qualifying factors to support modular construction, it is possible to reap the many benefits, without sacrificing great design. If you have any questions about how, please contact WORTHGROUP Architects and Designers today!
