Here are the top five articles I wrote in 2024, each addressing critical topics that captivated readers and sparked important discussions in the offsite construction industry. While I wish the year had been filled with more uplifting trends, the most significant stories highlighted pressing challenges: the struggles of failure within the modular industry, advice for Architects about modular, and the long-lasting impact of well-built housing. These five articles generated nearly 600,000 views, underscoring their relevance and impact. Here are the top five stories that resonated most deeply with our audience and shaped the conversation in 2024.
Unpacking the Collapse of Modular Construction Firms
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The Two-Year Fade: Why Modular Construction Factories Struggle to Survive Beyond Year Two
One of the greatest mysteries in modular construction is why the energy and optimism that drive the opening of a new factory so often vanish by the second year. Despite initial enthusiasm, many modular startups either pivot away from their original markets, change focus entirely, or fail to expand.
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Building codes today are meticulously crafted to ensure environmental compliance for the assumed lifespan of 35 to 50 years. Yet, buildings that outlast this period significantly mitigate environmental impact. Structures with a life span of 80 years can reduce their environmental footprint by 29% compared to their 50-year counterparts
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The Collapse of Yorkshire’s Modular Housing Dreams: What Went Wrong?
In recent years, modular housing was heralded as a revolutionary solution to the UK’s housing crisis, promising rapid construction and cost efficiency. However, the collapse of several prominent modular housing manufacturers, particularly in Yorkshire, has cast doubt on this once-promising sector.
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How Architects Can Adapt to the Growing Demand for Modular Homes
As modular construction becomes more prevalent, architects must understand its unique requirements. I wondered if Architects were aware of some of the unique aspects of designing for the modular industry.
To find out I visited with Aaron Trometter, Engineering Manager at Champion Modular Inc. who has seen and helped design some of the largest modular homes and projects in the US.
Gary Fleisher, The Modcoach, writes about the modular and offsite construction industry at Modular Home Source.
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