By Ozge Fettahlioglu
The Australian Government has set a formidable challenge: to build 1.2 million new homes within the next five years as part of a comprehensive strategy to tackle the nation’s housing crisis. This plan aims to enhance housing supply and affordability across the country. But with current skills shortages and traditional construction timelines often extending beyond a year per house, how can this ambitious target be met? Ozge Fettahlioglu, from modular home specialist Boxareno, shares her thoughts.
One promising solution that could redefine construction timelines while addressing the skilled labour gap is the rise of custom modular homes. These aren’t the prefabricated structures of yesteryear; today’s modular homes are sophisticated, highly customisable, and built with speed and precision in controlled factory settings.
Why modular homes offer a viable solution
- Cost-effectiveness and speed: Modular homes are constructed in controlled factory environments, significantly speeding up the building process and reducing costs. With parts of the homes prefabricated offsite, the need for on-the-ground labour decreases, which is crucial in times of labour shortages.
- Customisation at its best: Modern modular homes offer extensive customisation options, allowing for personalised touches that cater to diverse needs and aesthetic preferences. Whether integrating an architect’s specific design or selecting eco-friendly materials, these homes can be tailored to meet any requirements.
- Sustainability and quality: These homes are designed to last, using materials that ensure durability and sustainability. The construction process is designed to minimise waste, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
- Economies of scale in modular construction: For developers, modular homes present a particularly profitable opportunity when constructing multiple units. By manufacturing three or more houses simultaneously, costs per unit decrease substantially due to economies of scale in production. This makes modular homes an attractive option for developments, where multiple units are often needed quickly and cost-effectively. Custom modular houses may also maximise land use in the most efficient way.
At my company, Boxareno, we make the process of building your custom modular home seamless and efficient, from initial consultation to final installation:
- Consultation: Our detailed discussions help us understand your specific needs, preferences, and site requirements.
- Design: Collaborate with our team of architects and designers to bring your vision to life while ensuring functionality and sustainability. We can also manufacture your architect’s designs.
- Manufacture: Utilise our global manufacturing capabilities to construct your home with precision, ensuring quality while reducing costs. We also glibally specialise in hotel construction including fittings and furnishings. We have capabilities to stage these houseswith custom made furniture and turn them into a resort.
- Installation: Experience a quick and efficient final assembly on your site, minimising disruption to your daily life.
- Pricing: Starting at approximately $200,000, our modular homes offer an affordable solution without compromising on quality or design, with final costs varying based on complexity, size, and materials.
Challenges to consider
Despite the advantages, the intricacies of modular construction require meticulous planning and expert coordination. It’s vital to work with companies that have the necessary expertise and a proven track record in modular construction. Selecting the right construction partner is crucial for seamlessly turning innovative designs into functional living spaces.
Conclusion
As Australia addresses its housing shortage, the role of modular homes could be pivotal. Offering quicker, cost-effective, and high quality housing solutions, they could very well meet the Government’s ambitious housing target. Custom modular homes not only provide a practical solution to current construction hurdles but also open the door to innovative residential designs that could significantly influence the future of Australian housing. This approach not only speeds up construction but also capitalises on modern technology and design, proving that innovative solutions can meet large-scale national challenges effectively.
MODE Homes are another Australian supplier of modular homes.
