What is Modular Construction?

Modular construction is a practical and cutting-edge method of construction. It had gained popularity in the architectural and construction industries as a faster, smarter, and greener building solution. Modular construction can be a great solution for any temporary or permanent project, but it may not be the best solution depending on the requirements. We break down the details and benefits of Modular Construction in our blog post HERE.

Why should I choose Modular Construction?

You are probably looking for more information on modular construction because you already think it may be a good idea. Not all projects are modular-friendly, but many can be made modular with just a little more attention to the details. You probably already know about all the benefits of modular construction, such as being more economical, higher quality, and environmentally friendly, but these only come together as the positive end result only if the planning and design is properly done from the beginning. One thing for sure is that, if you’re not up for a challenge, don’t even think about it. (You can read more detail on the Pros & Cons to Modular Construction HERE.)

Where do I start?

If you are a developer or a general contractor stepping foot into the modular industry, you must have a proper plan in place. Here are a couple of things you should be thinking about when looking to start a modular construction business.

1. Will you establish your own manufacturing plant or partner with an existing modular manufacturing company?
   • Focus: start looking for your factory space

2. Who do you have on staff, what are their strengths and knowledge level on modular?
   • Focus: start creating the right positions and start looking for good people

3. What projects in hand do you have that can be built modular?
   • Focus: is the client on board, what is the timeline, is there flexibility

4. What is your 1-year, 3-year, 5-year, and 10-year plan for your modular construction business?
   • Focus: fully understand the whole process, good and the bad, short-term and long-term, and plan for it and stick to it

XLA also offers general modular consulting services to help you get started with setting up your modular construction service line, including supporting you through the CSA A277 Factory Certification process. Whether you are planning to set up your own factory, or looking to hire established modular builders, we can help you achieve your goal.

Why do you need Modular Specialized consultants?

You need to make sure you round up a team of consultants that fully understand both the possibilities and limitations of modular design and the construction process. Unlike conventional construction, modular requires in-depth knowledge and understanding of how all the different pieces come together. (literally!) Your Architect must be able to visualize the difference between off-site and on-site construction and apply the specific construction sequence into the design.

What happens if the Architect has no modular experience?

It will be similar to asking your carpenter to fit out your plumbing. There is some partial knowledge without understanding the full picture. Designing a project without any specialized knowledge in modular construction, more specifically the manufacturing/fabrication practices, there will always be a clash between the Architect and the Factory. Design and detail changes down the road will be inevitable and the whole process will take multiple times longer.

Do you sell or construct modular buildings?

No, we are Architects who design and work with the modular manufacturers to bring it to life. We do not have any design stock of models or actual constructed homes. All our modular design services are customized and focused to each of our clients, which in most cases are under Non-Disclosure Agreements.

How is XLA different?

We are the only Architects in Ontario that have experienced both sides of the table: as the Architect (Designer) and as the Manufacturer (Factory). We have worked with various modular manufacturing companies in setting up their systems, designing prototype modules and projects, leading the projects as AOR, and also as the Modular Specialists helping other consultants get on board with the industry.

Since we speak both Design and Manufacturing languages, we can stand at the forefront of dealing with clients as the Architect, but also provide support behind the curtains to the Factory team in resolving any manufacturing issues that may arise.

If this sounds like the Architect you need, let’s connect! Send us an EMAIL!