Modular pilot project sees more than 30 studio apartments created in just 12 weeks by East Yorkshire-based Integra Buildings.
The new apartments were constructed using modular techniques at the company’s site in East Yorkshire before being transported by lorry to Bristol, where they were assembled to create Launchpad – a modular pilot project designed to help address a growing housing shortage in the city.
The single-person apartments, which left Integra’s site fitted out with fully bespoke interiors, will be available to young people aged 18-30 who are looking to leave student rentals, supported housing or over-priced accommodation.
Bespoke modular buildings specialist Integra is now completing the on-site installation of plumbing, power and high-speed broadband, with the homes expected to be ready to move into this autumn.
The company put the rapid turnaround on the £1.4m project down to its modular building methods. Integra Technical Director Mike Marriott said: “Everyone should have access to good quality, affordable accommodation and this project has enabled us to be part of meeting this basic need for young people in a city where housing problems are acute.
“It brings together our expertise and capability in designing and manufacturing robust steel shell units and modular internal fit-outs. That combination has created comfortable and appealing homes, with the desired industrial external appearance.
“The apartments are constructed and equipped to very high standards and comply fully with domestic building regulations.”
Launchpad is backed by a partnership of United Communities, 1625 Independent People, which supports young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, and the University of Bristol.
The initial concept for Launchpad was to convert shipping containers, but it was decided these would be too small and restrictive. Instead, Integra was commissioned to design and manufacture a bespoke version of the shipping container concept, including a larger floor space and higher ceilings.
Integra Design Technician Sam Treadaway said: “Shipping containers are very restrictive – instead we’ve created a bespoke product. It’s much larger, with higher ceilings and big windows, to bring in a lot more light, and to meet stringent building regulations, including insulation standards.
“Because it’s fully bespoke, we’ve been able to design the interiors to a much higher specification. These units are self-contained studio apartments, ready for people to move in.”
The apartments feature a ready-made modular kitchen, alongside an en-suite shower room, and each apartment has room for a bed, sofa, desk and wardrobe. There are large windows, with blinds and laminate flooring.
