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INSIGHTS SITE LINES Modular methods of construction
Is modular construction the missing jigsaw piece needed to solve the UK’s housing crisis? HKR Architects’ Ayna Azhigali says it is, and that aesthetics need not be an issue
W
e are all acutely aware of the housing crisis that the UK is undergoing, with the number of new homes being built falling short of the Government’s targets and a critical need to ensure that people have access to suitable housing that is safe, warm, and healthy. HKR Architects has over 20 years’ experience designing and delivering a wide range of modular projects, both in the UK and internationally, and therefore have first-hand experience of the benefits the method brings in delivering new homes at a faster rate with minimised disruption to the local community.
Modular pocket schemes With the challenge of tackling three tight urban sites in London on the edge of existing residential estates and alongside a busy railway line, HKR Architects used their knowledge and practical experience to design and deliver quality homes for local first-time buyers. Creating identical modules across the three Pocket Living projects but designed and assembled to create three distinctly different schemes, these new homes completed the original estate and brought an active community feel to a previously neglected area.
The modules were constructed concurrently, with coordinated factory slots, delivery and sequencing using materials to reflect the local vernacular. By doing this the work on site was completed within four weeks, halving the number trucks on site, considerable reduction in waste and a six-month reduction in the programme. Due to the close proximity of residential buildings, using
modular construction was particularly beneficial as the construction site had considerably less dust and noise, and in addition the whole construction programme was a lot shorter, resulting in less disruption to the neighbouring houses.
One of the interesting aspects of these three projects was that the client and planning authority didn’t want the developments to look like modular construction, but instead look more in line with traditional brick houses. To make sure that the joints were not visible on the facades, cladding was applied after the modules were installed. This resulted in the building having a more traditional construction look, with each project having distinctive characteristics, while internally the modules are identical, allowing for speed of construction.
Leveraging airspace through modular Appointed with Adstone Construction and Apex Airspace, HKR Architects completed the design and delivery of an innovative modular rooftop extension and infill development for Lambeth and Southwark Housing Association. This enhanced scheme, above two existing 1950s residential
blocks, created 30 new additional affordable homes by leveraging the airspace while existing residents remained in their homes. As the existing roof was coming to the end of its life, a bespoke exoskeletal structure could be created. Added to the rooftop to carry the weight of the new modular homes – as part of the rooftop extension – the structure also helped to improve the insulation and weathertightness of the existing homes.
Juxon Street, modular housing scheme in Lambeth
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ADF NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
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