Modular Solutions | Drees & Sommer

Modular Solutions: New Ways for the Construction and Real Estate Industry

Modular construction is a key trend of the future in the construction and real estate industry. Because requirements for the buildings of tomorrow have changed: shorter building times; lower costs; a more efficient use of resources – expectations are wide-ranging. With our modular solutions we offer you individual solutions for modular constructions, from product-neutral consulting and planning services up to execution.

The Construction and Real Estate Industry Is Facing Great Challenges

Increasing productivity, promoting sustainablity, conserving resources: a rethink is needed in order to take responsibility for future generations. One thing is clear: we need to become more efficient and systematically rethink conventional construction processes. And modular construction is a real game changer: modular construction shifts much of the work from the building site to the factory, where it can be done irrespective of the weather, partially automated and therefore more efficiently. This saves time, reduces costs and protects the environment. But like any transition, this change brings further challenges as different worlds collide, i.e. the old processes and the new. We at Drees & Sommer have designed modular solutions that are able to integrate new module construction workflows into planning and construction processes.

Productivity is lower than 50 percent with conventional planning and construction models

Considerable consumption of resources in all processes and types of materials

New mindsets in design, planning, production and realization of buildings are necessary

Use of sustainable and resource-saving materials and development of cost-efficient processes, maintaining a high level of individuality as a key challenge

Industrialized processes of Industry 4.0 and a one-of-a-kind-production approach offer many advantages, which have not been taken into consideration by the construction industry so far

Inefficiencies in projects for new and existing buildings

Our Approach: Modular Solutions

Irrespective of the fact if they are decision-makers, developers, investors, building owners or planners: through modular solutions, we offer our clients product-neutral advice combined with modular construction solutions. We harmonize processes, integrate the knowledge of the companies carrying out the work into the planning, and make the right decisions at the right time. Our many years of experience enable us to plan construction processes efficiently and to optimize logistics, both on the building site and in production. Our services range from initial consulting on a suitable construction method, through quality control both as an integral process in the factory and on the building site.

The Added Value of Modular Solutions:

Accelerated construction times – Modular prefabricated building elements are produced in a factory in parallel to the building site. This reduces construction time significantly, as the modules only need to be assembled on site.
Cost efficiency – Standardized production of modules enables materials and labor to be used more efficiently. This results in cost savings, especially in larger construction projects.
Quality control – Manufacturing in a controlled factory environment leads to better quality assurance compared to traditional building practices. This reduces construction defects and repairs at a later stage.
Sustainability – Modular construction makes it possible to use resources more efficiently and reduce waste. It does so in particular by integrating environmentally friendly materials and technologies into the manufacturing process.
Flexibility and adaptability – Modular construction projects can be extended or altered more easily because the modules can be adapted flexibly. As a result, the type of use can take a wide range of forms.

Customized Construction Projects: Overview of Our Modular Solutions

Integral or Phase-Related Modularization Advice

Modularization consulting is an essential part of our modular solutions services. Our advice offer covers all performance and service phases of the German official scale of fees for services by architects and engineers (HOAI). Whether you want to use our entire range of services or only draw on our experts for a specific planning or construction phase – anything is possible.

This is how we proceed: graph: Blue Modules

We start with a feasibility study and an analysis of the challenge you currently face. This provides you with a recommendation for the most suitable materials and construction method for the project. If necessary, we show changes to the planning that are required for modular construction.
We advise you on the various project delivery methods and support you in preparing or assessing different types of tender.
We assist you with the planning of your project, from the appropriate construction system to the selection of materials, using our expertise in timber and modular construction.
We assess the systems and/or modules with regard to market potential or the capacities of the firms carrying out the work.
In the planning phase, we provide support with a transport analysis and the appropriate scheduling.
During construction, we evaluate proposals from the companies involved and planners, and develop alternative proposals as the best solution for assembly processes and building site logistics.
In all project phases, our experts support clients with comprehensive market expertise, work transparently, monitor quality and are networked with more than 120 system partners.