Design of manufactured elements needs to start as soon as outline planning permission is obtained to allow design and manufacture to run in parallel with other activities. Fast, reliable specifications are one element of this, so good communication is essential. Says Michelle Costigan of PCI’s Technical Services department: “With regards to specifications for pods, the process is straightforward and specifications are generated in the normal way by our sales representatives in consultation with PCI Technical Services, based on the most suitable products for the backgrounds involved, the tiles used and any other relevant factors.”
BASF is a strong supporter of modular construction so PCI has made the most of being able to capitalise on the group’s expertise in this field. At OFFSITE 2007, in which BASF was extensively involved, PCI products featured widely. The showcase event demonstrated how modern methods and advanced technologies are coming together to deliver higher performing low carbon, sustainable, smarter buildings
The ORGANICS Swedish house from ecoTECH at OFFSITE 2007, which used PCI’s products in its kitchen and bathroom modules, was a great example of an affordable, low-maintenance, well-designed green housing alternative that can be mass produced. The ORGANICS range is not designed to be identical: designs have core modules (bathrooms, kitchens and bedrooms) that are the same, but the way that they are configured, the size and the internal and external finishes can all vary. This means that the product benefits from the efficiencies of mass production, but reflects the individuality of the homeowner and the landscape.