San Diego's growing population has created an ongoing demand for more classroom and office space. In response to this demand, "systems building" -- a method in which modular, relocatable buildings are premanufactured, then installed onsite -- has emerged as a time- and cost-efficient alternative to traditional construction.

Yet, there has been some concern among the design community that systems building can result in school and office campuses that look too manufactured, homogenous and downright boring.

Robert Noble

Laurie Fisher

With traditional construction, it is assumed that architects have more freedom to design buildings and campuses that are aesthetically pleasing and exude personality. In contrast, systems building is thought by some to stifle architectural creativity.

While this is a legitimate concern, boring design need not be a reality with systems building. Systems building challenges architects to stretch their creativity and find ways to augment the character and aesthetic of a building.

Architects can work collaboratively with the project owner and building manufacturer to achieve high-quality, original projects -- all while spending a comparatively less amount of time and money than with traditional construction.

Flexibility

Perhaps the biggest attraction of systems building is its flexibility. By definition, modularity is synonymous with flexibility.

Most modular building manufacturers offer a variety of standard, preapproved designs for exteriors and interiors, both of which can be tailored for permanent or relocatable use. Architects can opt to use these standard designs as a basis to explore and develop their own concepts.

First, there's flexibility in the types of buildings that can be designed and manufactured. Modular school buildings, for example, can include one- and two-story classrooms; buildings for kindergarten, preschool and daycare; administrative offices; multipurpose and open plan rooms; science and computer labs; libraries; food service facilities; restrooms; and locker/weight rooms. Buildings for office campuses can range from administrative buildings and work/office spaces, to conference rooms, technology centers and lounges.

Modular building exteriors also can incorporate customized accents. For example, buildings can feature higher pitched roof systems, with either sloped or finished roof lines. Also, any conventional exterior finish such as sand, trowel or stucco can be applied to a modular exterior panel. This can be especially helpful if modular buildings are being added to an existing school or office campus with a fixed architectural design.

Another flexible feature of systems building is the vast range of interior design and layout options. Wall finishes can range from standard vinyl covered tack board, to tile, paneling, painted sheet rock or other finishes -- each in an assortment of colors and textures. By also adding different accent elements to complement interior finishes, architects can produce entirely different, original-looking interiors for any given project.

In addition, interior partitions can be designed to be movable. This creates interior layouts that are flexible. Rooms and workstations can be made larger or smaller, allowing for a virtually unlimited number of furniture configurations.

Furthermore, systems building utilizes "drop-in" ceilings, which can be lowered or raised to take advantage of higher pitched roof systems.

Cost efficiency

Another appeal of systems building is that it can be a more cost-effective alternative to traditional construction. First, manufacturing modular units requires fewer man hours than onsite construction. Second, systems building boasts more purchasing power; materials needed for factory production are purchased in bulk, thereby minimizing overall material costs. Third, one company (instead of multiple subcontractors) oversees building construction from inception to completion; this eliminates overhead costs and profit margins.

Finally, most systems building projects can be completed several months earlier than conventional construction projects. One reason is that delays due to weather are nonexistent during the building manufacturing process. Another reason: Site preparation can be done concurrently with manufacturing to maximize time efficiency.

A typical modular school can be designed constructed and installed in under one-half the time it takes to design and construct a conventional campus. The average cost savings is approximately 30 percent in comparison to a conventional site-built school.

Uncompromised quality

The systems building industry has become so fine-tuned that modular buildings compete directly with traditional construction for quality. Modular buildings can feature at-grade foundations; they are constructed to the latest seismic standards; and they have the same life span as traditional built construction. Further, most modular wall systems are fire resistant, termite-proof and water-proof.

Some manufacturers even maintain on-staff architects and engineers who can consult with the outside architect and owner to ensure quality. Manufacturers also offer standard designs that are preapproved by the Department of State Architects.

Environmentally responsible

Now, more than ever, the design community is incorporating sustainable, energy-efficient materials and practices. In some respects, systems building is leading the way. Architects are working with modular manufacturers to develop design options aimed at curtailing natural resource depletion and conserving energy.

Specifically, systems building can offer a number of "green" benefits. Modular buildings typically use the least amount of total energy in their construction and life cycle.

In warm climates, some modular buildings can be designed to provide maximum shade to keep buildings cool. Likewise, buildings can be designed to maximize use of the sun through daylighting and incorporation of photovoltaic panels.

Some modular manufacturers also recycle and remanufacture furniture and panels. Others use materials with low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and high recycled content.

The future of systems building

Systems building is by no means a replacement for traditional construction. Depending on the type of project (i.e., industrial, institutional, retail, public works), it may not be the most appropriate method. The good news is that there is plenty of room in the industry for both methods.

For many school and office projects, systems building may become a more viable option for developers and owners -- and especially architects, who can use it as an opportunity to stretch their creativity, not stifle it.

Noble is CEO and design principal, and Fisher is director of sustainable design with Tucker Sadler Noble Castro Architects.