What is Modular Building?

Modular building can be thought of as a building block principle: Individual modules, such as part of the facade, are assembled. This construction method is used in building construction and civil engineering. The individual components of a building are therefore no longer manufactured on site, but simply assembled.

For a long time, modular building was viewed critically, as this construction method was associated with typical prefabricated buildings. Today, however, this type of building is associated with numerous advantages, including:

• More sustainable construction
• Better control of costs and quality
• More efficient construction methods

Efficiency is noticeable through several factors: Working conditions are less risky, site times are shorter, and weather-related delays are reduced.

Modular building is divided into several variants, all of which require a foundation as a basis:

1. Skeleton construction: Ceilings, walls and facade elements are installed in a modular frame. The room furnishings are made individually.
2. Large panel construction: This construction method is also known as panel construction. Here, the buildings are assembled with prefabricated two-dimensional wall and facade panels.
3. Modular or container construction: When this type of construction is used, three-dimensional, fully assembled and equipped modules are transported to the site and assembled into a building on site.

Often associated with standardized prefabricated buildings, modular construction methods are now also used in complex high-rise buildings. For example, digitales Bauen GmbH, a subsidiary of Drees & Sommer, is applying modular concepts to the major FOUR Frankfurt project. This does not involve the use of predefined building kits, but rather the further development of the architectural design into clearly recognizable modules.