‘Hybrid’ light steel panel and modular systems

Modern methods of construction (MMC) are defined as those which are highly pre-fabricated and which achieve tangible benefits to the client in terms of speed of construction, higher quality and more efficient and adaptable space use. There are many examples of MMC in light steel framing and modular construction, which are targeted on the residential and mixed-use building sectors. Modular units can be designed with partially or fully open sides so that two or more modules can be placed side by side to create larger spaces. An alternative ‘hybrid’ approach is to combine 3D-modules for the highly serviced and higher value parts, such as kitchens and bathrooms, and to use long span 2D-panels for the floors and walls in the more open plan areas. The long span floor cassettes typically span up to 6 m between separating walls or the sides of the modules. The floor cassettes occupy the same depth as the floor and ceiling of the module and achieve a target depth of 450–500 mm. The paper reviews the design and construction of a ‘hybrid’ demonstration building addresses the background development work and testing of the modules and floor cassettes.