The Offsite Guide to MMC in Commercial Developments

MMC is increasingly being utilised in commercial developments as it offers an array of benefits, including accelerated project timelines, cost reduction, reduced business disruption and greater sustainability. MMC can meet the space demands that come with business growth and expansion much faster than traditional methods of construction. In this post, we explore the scope of MMC in commercial developments and how it can meet the unique needs of this sector.

MMC in Commercial Developments

MMC supports business growth by reducing costs and allowing for the rapid completion of projects with minimal disruption to business operations. The adoption of MMC methods can vary depending on the specific industry, project requirements, and business objectives. But the scope for the use of MMC in commercial projects is huge. By adopting offsite construction and modular techniques, developers can accelerate project timelines which saves on costs and allows businesses to be operational sooner to boost profitability. 

MMC can be utilised to create entire structures, such as office or retail complexes, but this is not the only application. Modular components can be utilised for smaller projects or as part of a larger project. Examples of MMC elements that can be used in commercial developments include:

• System-build wall panels

• Structurally insulated panels (SIPs)

• Passivhaus timber frame modular building

• Light gauge steel frame (LGSF)

• Traditional volumetric modular buildings

• Kitchen, bathroom and other pods

MMC can be utilised in commercial developments where either temporary or permanent solutions are required. Some examples of the scope of MMC in commercial developments include:

• Medium and high-rise structures

• Entire office complexes

• Temporary and permanent retail spaces

• Sustainable developments

• Modular components in hotels, leisure centres, restaurants, retail complexes and more

The Benefits of MMC in Commercial Developments

There are many benefits to utilising MMC in commercial developments. MMC is more cost-efficient and sustainable than traditional construction methods. It results in faster build times and ensures minimal disruption to operational businesses.

Cost efficiency

Due to the offsite manufacturing style, MMC typically comes with reduced costs. This is because the entire process requires much less time spent on site, so costs can be reduced without any compromises to quality. Construction sites are costly to run, so by reducing the time spent on site, costs are naturally lower compared with traditional construction methods. By embracing MMC, businesses can make substantial savings on the total cost of their project.

Faster build times

MMC significantly reduces build times to ensure that projects can be completed much faster compared to traditional solutions. This is because offsite elements can be constructed at the same time as essential groundworks and other preparatory work is taking place on-site. Reduced build times means less disruption to businesses and the communities they serve. It also means that rapidly growing companies can meet their space needs quickly without being stunted by lengthy construction projects.

Minimised disruption

Where commercial construction projects are taking place on sites that remain operational, MMC brings significant benefits. Because much of the work takes place offsite, businesses can continue to operate with minimal disruption. With effective project planning and management, essential on-site works can take place in the most efficient ways and, at times that ensure disruption is kept to a minimum.

Sustainability

Compared with traditional methods of construction, MMC allows for greater sustainability. Many emerging MMC technologies and solutions are utilising low-carbon and recycled products alongside energy-efficient build processes. This supports the drive for businesses to become carbon neutral. More energy-efficient buildings also translate to reduced operational costs when less is spent on energy bills.

Case Study:

Following a period of rapid growth, MTC had an increased demand for space. They invited MMC specialists Catfoss to present spacing solution ideas. Due to the rapid growth, MTC was experiencing, the key challenge was time, as they urgently needed additional space on their Ansty Park site. The space they already had was not only limited but also becoming inadequate for their needs. Catfoss was required to work quickly to find a solution that met their needs.

Catfoss worked in consultation with MTC to design a three-stored, 81-bay modular building complex that would provide additional offices, meeting rooms, workshops, circulation space, welfare areas and a café. To allow for faster completion of the project and minimal on-site disruption, construction would be carried out offsite.

To reduce the turnaround time for the project, on-site works such as foundations, servicing and landscaping were carried out simultaneously with the offsite construction elements. This allowed for the building to be craned into position in less than two weeks! The partnership between MTC and Catfoss has continued, with Catfoss continuing to support MTC to find ways to develop and support the growth of their business with modular building solutions. 

You can read more about this case study here.