At least that’s how it sounds from the mouths of renowned architects, and for good reasons: The modular design can be flexibly adapted to all customer requirements, it can be expanded, it is pre-produced and is therefore ready for assembly more quickly, it is independent of the weather, and it meets the latest standards in terms of noise and heat insulation. There are (almost) no wishes left unfulfilled.
Building and living in a module. What sounds to many skeptics like living in a container has so much more to offer. First of all, it should be noted that it is not living in a container, but the most modern and promising way of living. The individual modules are available in different sizes and come with absolutely flexible room sections inside. In this way, load-bearing columns can optionally be integrated into the design or disappear inconspicuously into the walls. This creates space for individual wishes. Also with regard to the module structure. Several modules thus easily form a unit, sometimes at ground level, sometimes divided over several floors. Depending on what the builder wants and what the municipal ordinances allow. Those who start small can also add on later at any time, since the walls balance the weight of the superstructure without difficulty. Structurally there is also a lot possible such as hidden balconies, loggias, conservatories and so much more.
The location of the modules matters
It is important to always keep the location in mind during all the planning. Not everything is allowed everywhere; there are usually a lot of specifications that have to be adhered to. This is no problem at all for ready-made modules, because they adapt to everything. Generous, functional and of course in accordance with the latest building regulations, the design follows strict guidelines. Production takes place in the factory. This means that all modules come pre-assembled directly to the construction site and are ready for use within a few hours. A clear location advantage here as well, because nothing has to be laboriously built stone on stone. Especially in winter often a difficult task, because not all building materials tolerate cold and so the house construction is often significantly delayed. This is not only annoying, it also costs a lot of money.
Always keeping an eye on costs with modular architecture
In principle, it is not significantly cheaper to build modularly because the materials used have their costs. But it is more efficient in the long run, because builders are not dependent on the cooperation of different trades on site and the underlying conditions. Instead, everything arrives on time and ready to go, is placed on the pre-poured floor slab, and the house is finished. So there are no costs due to a supposedly longer waiting period, which makes the moving date extremely shorter and much easier for builders to plan. There are literally no more obstacles in the way. A logistical masterstroke with success, because more and more companies are now specializing in modular architecture, and the architects themselves are also very appreciative of the advantages of the overall planning structure.
Where modular architecture reaches its limits
Like everywhere else, there are also limits to what is feasible in modular architecture. For example, the modules cannot be infinitely large, because they still have to be prefabricated and loaded in the factory halls. Anyone with a spacious living space on their personal wish list will have to rely on several modules, which are then joined together as soon as they arrive at the building site. There are also limits to what can be achieved in terms of visual design. Organic structures are difficult to realize because the construction method simply does not allow for them. Here, architects have to reject special requests and make clear cutbacks. True to the motto: “Cobbler stick to your last”, it is nevertheless possible to achieve the desired planning goals even in angular modules.
Image copyright: georgejmclittle
