Modular Can Reduce Construction Risks
Wood construction has a myriad of benefits, but a very recent and very large construction site fire illustrates the dramatic risks of using wood as a site-built material. The project was large: five-story; 241-unit; and $51 million.
This building was, no doubt, designed to meet all fire and building codes upon completion, but, at 40% completion, the exposed wood framing was a substantial fire risk. This illustrates yet another two reasons to use off-site modular construction. First, using modular dramatically decreases on-site construction time, thereby reducing the construction risk window. Second, with very little change to design and production, the wood frame walls could be shipped already contained within fire rated assemblies.
Thinking about modular MMC construction, add these two items the “Pros” column.
High Rise Prefab: Current Trends
Presentation and Discussion
AIA San Diego Modular Architecture Group
Brown Bag Meeting May 28, 2013
Thames Valley University, UK
The next meeting of the AIA SD Modular BBRT will focus on current trends in prefabricated modular high rise architecture. In recent years we have seen 18, 24 and now 32 story buildings being manufactured as modules offsite. James Guthrie, AIA will give a short presentation on recent tall factory-built buildings from the UK and US. After the presentation, the meeting will be open for discussion on related issues. From structural techniques to general aesthetics, AIA members are welcome to come see examples and share their thoughts.
Brown Bag Roundtable: Modular Architecture
Tuesday, May 28, 2013 — 12:00 – 1:30PM
AIA San Diego Chapter Office
233 A Street, Suite 200
San Diego, CA 92101
http://www.aiasandiego.org
