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January 8, 2021

A Comprehensive Look at the Modular Building Design Process

Compared to traditional construction methods, modular building is convenient and cost-effective, allowing for components to be built, shipped, and constructed quickly. Clients love the ability to customize but aren’t necessarily familiar with the process as a whole. If you’re looking into modular buildings as part of a new construction project, here is what you can expect.

Step 1 - Project Analysis

Before jumping into potential blueprints, project analysis must come first. Every project will demand a unique set of needs and budget considerations. Thus, you should work closely with your contractor to determine the scope of your project and craft a workable timeline.

Step 2 - Select Between a Fleet and Custom Build

Now that you have your initial design down pat, it’s time to determine whether your contractor has a building in their fleet that suits your needs. If so, you can receive your parts as-is, which increases efficiency and budget-friendliness.

If you don’t find a fleet building that suits your fancy, you can have a custom modular solution tailored to your specifications.

Step 3 - Custom Design

From analysis, your contractor will get to work designing a floor plan for your building. Amid this process, you take full reign over how you want your end product to look. Discuss your wants and needs in detail, leaving out no apprehensions or ambitious thoughts. Your contractor will be there to level your expectations and provide a realistic look into what best suits your budget.

If you don’t have exact specifications in your pocket, your contractor should be equipped to develop a proposal. Either way, you have full control over the design output.

What Are a Few Common Design Features?

No modular project is identical to another. However, some might utilize familiar structures such as those for:

  • Open classrooms, art studios, or computer labs
  • Open office spaces, private areas, and break rooms
  • Exam offices and waiting areas with equipped reception desks
  • Fire sprinkler systems
  • IT and janitorial closets and storage
  • Restrooms and locker rooms
  • Showers and decontamination areas

Step 4 - Project Construction

Finally, the step you’ve been anticipating—project construction. After determining project specifics such as interior and exterior finishes, installation, and other specialty products, your contractor is ready to get building.

You might decide to hire your contractor in two ways: a modular partner or associate with a full turnkey solution. As the former, you will work with your contractor from design and construction to installation. As the latter, your contractor will be primarily responsible for site development.

What type of partnership you select will depend on your ultimate goals and the resources you currently have available to you. From there, you’ll have the keys turned over to you as soon as the property is move-in ready.

Conclusion

When brainstorming an upcoming construction project, don’t shy away from modular buildings. These state-of-the-art construction alternatives are affordable, efficient, and entirely customizable. When it comes to modular solutions, no project is too ambitious.

If you are interested in purchasing a modular building work with our experienced and knowledgeable team at Northgate Industries. Our buildings withstand even the harshest of climate and will last you a lifetime.

Ready to work together?

We offer new, used and custom made modular buildings in a wide range of sizes and styles. Our experienced sales staff will work closely with you to understand your unique requirements and your budget.