The BROAD Group, a Chinese manufacturing company, constructed a 10-story apartment building called the Living Building in 28 hours and 45 minutes. Hailed as one of the shortest construction projects in history, the rapidly assembled building drew on three cranes and a large workforce to complete the project. To make the short timeframe possible, the BROAD Group manufactured a series of stainless steel modules that, when conjoined, form the structure of the Living Building.
The Living Building, which is located in Changsha, China, uses B-core slabs as the basis for the modules. Each module measures 40 feet by eight feet with a 10-foot ceiling. These modules come completely finished and merely require the water and electricity to be hooked up. The Living Building stands as proof of the concept for the future of modular construction.
Rapidly Assembled Modular Apartments
The BROAD Group Constructed the Living Building in 28 Hours
Trend Themes
1. Modular Construction Advancements - The Living Building is just one example of the trend towards modular construction taking off around the world, paving the way for more rapid and cost-efficient construction projects.
2. Innovative Construction Project Management - The use of three cranes and a large workforce proves that with innovative project management techniques, large and complex construction projects can still be completed at record speed.
3. Sustainable Construction Solutions - B-core slabs used in the Living Building are an eco-friendly replacement for traditional building materials, and could be a trend for future construction projects.
Industry Implications
1. Construction - The construction industry can explore modular construction as an opportunity to create cost-efficient and sustainable buildings at a rapid pace.
2. Manufacturing - Companies in the manufacturing industry can explore ways to create modular components that are pre-fabricated, easy to assemble, and eco-friendly as demand for modern construction methods continues to grow.
3. Real Estate Development - Real estate developers can capitalize on modular construction to offer new solutions to affordable housing, cut construction timelines, reduce costs, and increase efficiency in project delivery.