Award-winning off-site construction specialist and Portakabin subsidiary, Yorkon, has launched a pioneering new exemplar design to demonstrate the architectural flexibility of its steel-framed modular building system.

The design concepts, which have a wide range of practical applications, were developed in partnership with leading architects tp bennett.

The aim of the research and development project was to incorporate the latest innovations in modular construction introduced by Yorkon – shaped modules and 12m clear internal spans for buildings up to six storeys high – to produce a series of inspiring designs that celebrate modern methods of construction.

The concepts suggest a six-storey linear building sitting alongside a curved building, both of which have been arranged around a central plaza and parkland.

The curved building comprises three levels of two-storey modular accommodation set within a ‘mega’ structure on a raised open plinth. Spaces have been created between some of the modules to form external terraces, glazed atria and vertical light shafts.

The form of the linear building is enhanced with the use of cantilevered bays whilst the modules at the top level have been off set to create an overhang to the rear and a terrace to the front.

The building designs can have a variety of uses, such as retail accommodation on the lower two storeys of the curved building with office space above. Leisure, office and studios would be appropriate for the linear building.

Commenting on the new designs, David Johnson, Director and General Manager of Yorkon said, "We wanted to push the boundaries of off-site construction as part of our ongoing commitment to design and innovation, by developing a series of exciting yet practical concepts to inspire architects, contractors and clients alike."

"Our aim is to embrace and celebrate off-site construction and demonstrate that modular buildings do not have to conform to the conventional rectilinear appearance. Our involvement in numerous award-winning off-site schemes has already shown that modular technology can create really inspirational architecture – delivered on time, on budget, and with less impact on the environment."

Jonathan Darke, Principal at tp bennett architects, said, "There is huge potential for modular construction in the built environment. The ‘kit of parts’ available can be used to create really exciting designs and the process should definitely not be considered a restriction. It is a cleaner and much less disruptive way of delivering buildings within a live working environment such as schools, offices and hospitals – in half the time and with significantly reduced material waste."

"It also offers a new level of communication with clients. Prototypes can be developed in the factory for viewing and fine tuning before the building is rolled out, eliminating risk for the client. We think it’s a fantastic way of meeting clients’ build requirements without compromising design."

The expanded range of architectural options introduced by Yorkon gives specifiers greater flexibility in aesthetics and building layout than ever before. The new developments include:

• faceted modules for curved façades, shaped atria and feature entrances
• the facility to build from one to six storeys high with an open plan steel-framed system
• clear unrestricted internal spans of up to 12m for complete flexibility in space planning
• a wider range of façade treatments and claddings to add interest to the building envelope, from terracotta tiles, render and cedar boarding to ribbon windows, full height curtain walling and brise soleil sunshading
• standard flat, barrel vaulted or pitched roofs with a range of floor to soffit heights.
  
  

Yorkon has also developed a new design tool to help architects work with off-site construction. Available in interactive pdf format, the tool contains a comprehensive guide to steel-framed modular construction to help architects develop a building design for a specific project, and produce fast and accurate drawings.

For a copy of the new guide, email contact@yorkon.co.uk, or call 0845 2000 123.