The demand for student accommodation has grown significantly in recent years, and universities are constantly seeking innovative solutions to house their students comfortably and sustainably to meet this demand. One approach gaining traction is the use of modular buildings.
If you’re responsible for organising student accommodation at your establishment, here are five things to consider before deciding if modular buildings are the right solution for your construction needs.
1. Sustainable solutions with modular construction
Modular construction, also known as off-site construction, is revolutionising the way we build. It involves manufacturing building components in a controlled factory environment and assembling them on-site. This approach is more sustainable than traditional construction methods for a couple of key reasons.
Firstly, it reduces construction waste, as materials are precisely measured and cut in the factory. Second, modular buildings are energy-efficient, often incorporating eco-friendly technologies such as solar panels and advanced insulation. Universities looking to reduce their environmental footprint should seriously consider the sustainability benefits of modular student accommodation.
2. Speedy construction and reduced disruption
One of the most significant advantages of modular construction is its speed. Traditional construction can be slow and disruptive, causing inconveniences for both students and neighbouring communities. In contrast, modular buildings can be constructed in a fraction of the time.
The components are manufactured concurrently with on-site preparation, allowing for rapid assembly. This means universities can accommodate more students quickly, addressing growing enrollment demands without extended construction timelines.
3. Customisation and flexibility
Modular student accommodation offers a high degree of customisation and flexibility. Universities can work with modular construction companies to design buildings that meet their specific needs and aesthetics.
Whether it’s creating communal spaces, adding study areas, or incorporating sustainable features, modular buildings can be tailored to fit the vision of the institution. This flexibility ensures that student accommodation is not only functional but also conducive to learning and well-being.
4. Cost-effective solutions
Universities often face budget constraints, making cost-effective construction solutions crucial. Modular student accommodation can offer significant cost savings. In part, this is due to the reduced construction time — which translates to lower labour costs. The controlled factory environment also minimises the risk of delays and cost overruns due to weather or other on-site issues.
In addition, the energy-efficient nature of modular buildings can lead to long-term operational savings through reduced utility bills. Overall, modular construction provides an attractive cost-effective option for universities aiming to expand their accommodation offerings.
5. Better scalability
The scalability of modular student accommodation is a key factor in its appeal to universities facing fluctuating student enrollment numbers. Unlike traditional construction, which often involves lengthy and cumbersome processes for expansion or reduction, modular construction offers a nimble and adaptable solution. Universities can swiftly respond to changing demographics, increased demand, or shifts in enrollment by adding or removing modular units with relative ease.
In essence, the scalability of modular student accommodation empowers universities to stay agile and responsive to the ever-changing dynamics of student populations, ultimately enhancing their ability to provide comfortable and appropriate housing solutions, regardless of enrollment fluctuations.
Modular construction solutions with Totally Modular
As more and more young people are attending university, the demand for affordable, effective student accommodation is on the rise. Modular construction solutions are a sustainable, rapid solution to meet the demands needed by university establishments.
Get in touch with us today to find out more about how modular solutions can help students feel safe and secure away from home.