Terrapin offsite system used for London housing

Terrapin has developed an innovative and cost effective alternative to traditional build methods, for a social housing development in London.

The company has designed a system that provides not only cost savings for the client, but also means they can benefit from its new corner-loaded modular buildings, which have been pioneered by Terrapin.

The design of these buildings has moved away from the traditional 'box like' design that has at times characterised modular buildings in the past.

The steel-framed corner-loaded modules from Terrapin mean buildings can be non-rectangular in plan and benefit from contemporary features, such as internal atria or balconies.

Terrapin's system also makes it possible to have corner-to-corner glazed walls, which enable a large amount of natural light to enter the building, providing a light and airy living space for residents.

The use of the system in the London housing development means that work on the buildings can be carried out at the same time as demolition of the current buildings on the site.

Once the buildings are completed, they can be craned into position, providing a much quicker and simpler build schedule with less need for deliveries on site.

Groundwork costs are also minimised because the building requires load-bearing foundations only at the module corners.

This means that contractor time on site (and therefore cost) is substantially reduced and the developer can begin generating rents much sooner.

Terrapin's modular building system is proving popular across urban sites throughout the country, not least because of its benefits in reduced site traffic, fewer on site personnel, and less noise and disruption for neighbours.

The environmental credentials of the system are further enhanced by the fact that Terrapin will plant trees - either on the development site or elsewhere - to offset the carbon footprint of transporting the modules to site.

Terrapin's corner-loaded modules can be provided to flexible lengths and bespoke sizes, as determined by the project.

Modules can be supplied either fully serviced - and with watertight exterior cladding - ready to be craned into position or as flat pack panels which are easily assembled and finished on site.

Terrapin offers a range of options for exterior and interior finishes and a variety of service options to give long term cost savings.

For example, modules can be specified with underfloor heating which warms rooms so efficiently that energy requirements and costs are substantially reduced.

Modules are proven to exceed the 2010 building regulations requirements and have been specifically developed to overcome current modular build issues with cold bridging.

Terrapin is currently in the process of securing NHBC approval for the modules which will permit housing developers to offer buildings with full guarantees.

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