What Are The Latest Developments In Modular Building Design?
There are currently a wide range of modular cabins for sale, and they can be customised to meet a range of different purposes, from marketing suites to hospital operating theatres and portable classrooms. Public perception of these structures is often outdated, as they have moved far beyond the basic and somewhat ugly prefab buildings of the last century.
Modern modular cabins are built from advanced materials and subject to high quality control standards. This means that they are energy efficient, sustainable, weatherproof, and highly durable. The exterior of the cabin can be customised to ensure that it blends in sympathetically with its surroundings; for example with timber cladding or coloured facias.
The interior can also be customised to suit the intended purpose, with the integration of technology, custom made furniture, hygiene and kitchen facilities, and many other options.
For all these reasons, many businesses are now realising that modular buildings are not just a compromise, but an excellent way to expand or augment their current facilities.
Compared to traditional bricks and mortar structures, they are cost effective, more energy efficient and environmentally friendly, much quicker and simpler to put in place, low maintenance and highly versatile. Beside all of these advantages, modular buildings now rival traditional construction in terms of functionality, design and durability.
Here’s a look at some of the most recent advancements in modular building technology, and new developments that may emerge over the next few years.
The introduction of smart technologies
Smart technology is infiltrating almost every aspect of life, and modular buildings are no exception. High end models are equipped with features such as sensors and smart meters to monitor and optimise energy consumption, reducing expenditure on energy bills and lowering the carbon footprint of the building, and therefore your business.
The cabins can be seamlessly integrated with many other smart features, including automated lighting and heating systems, and advanced security systems that can be monitored remotely for extra peace of mind. Anti-vandal features are also available, including steel reinforced doors and windows, and double locking systems.
Efficient off-site construction processes
Modular buildings are largely manufactured and assembled off-site, reducing timescales and eliminating the uncertainties around traditional building methods, such as material shortages, delivery delays, weather interruptions and labour shortages.
The more controlled process of off-site manufacturing means that it is almost guaranteed that your modular cabin will be installed within budget and on time, with no hidden surprises and unexpected cost arising along the way.
Many factories now have semi or fully automated processes in place, reducing the risk of error and ensuring consistency and quality control. The units are often supplied with wiring and plumbing systems in place, making installation even quicker, simpler and more cost effective.
Reduced environmental impact
Modular buildings are highly sustainable in comparison with traditional buildings. This is an increasing priority for businesses as they strive to establish their green credentials and reduce their environmental impact, both to meet regulatory requirements and to keep up with changing customer values and expectations.
Ultimately of course, higher standards of sustainability help to mitigate the effects of global warming and climate change that is threatening the future of the planet. Some modular buildings are made with recycled materials or those from sustainable sources.
The off-site manufacturing process significantly reduces carbon emissions and other air pollution compared to traditional methods, and the portable buildings have less embodied carbon.
They can also be integrated with green energy solutions, such as solar panels, thermal glazing, ground or air source heat pumps, and advanced insulation methods. This further reduces the use or dependence on fossil fuels, contributing to a more sustainable future and lowering carbon emissions.
Modern modular buildings are entirely different beasts from the basic functional boxes of yesteryear. They are highly sustainable, customisable, energy efficient and compatible with the latest technologies. This makes them suitable for use in a wide range of sectors, including construction, healthcare, education, events, retail, and manufacturing.
Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, you will be able to find a modular building solution for your business. They can be scaled up or down according to your needs, stacked up to four storeys high, or adjoined to expand floor space as required.
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