Module, modular or modules are terms sometimes employed interchangeably. A module in architecture is the smallest common unit of measure in an architectural arrangement or system. Modular construction also denotes volumetric construction, building edifices from factory-produced boxes. These boxes, labelled as modules, are stacked or aligned to structure modular architecture. All three terms delineate making from ready-to-use components in a scalable manner. Ready-to-use describes making from factory-produced components but can also suggest repurposing modular objects, products or pieces. Modular concrete drainage pipes inspired a group of architects, Summary Studio, to develop an industrialized building strategy based on the arrangement of precast concrete boxes. By examining the detailed assembly of pre-stressed concrete drainpipes to organise sewage system networks, the firm conceived a similar type of sectional modularity to produce houses.
Pre-stressed concrete is cast into prismatic tubes weatherproofed and assembled through watertight connections. Pre-stressed concrete uses tended cables to strengthen concrete by compressing it into shape before loading it. This Gomos system proposes affordable concrete box units that would leave the factory completed and delivered to sites to be set and positioned to form either aligned linear dwelling units or as single-unit micro dwellings. This pipe fitting suggests any number of arrangements as the individual sections could be cast for and linked to any shape. Inhabiting this type of ready-made pipe communicates the concept of modular construction associated with other ready-made strategies such as container architecture clustered to achieve a type of singular grouping.
The firm proposed a first prototype, an assembly of six concrete boxes on a sloped site in Vale de Cambria in Portugal. Each unit, 2,5x5,9 m is autonomous and structurally independent from the rest of the assembly. The simple building block inspired system is intended as a low-cost solution to the enduring global housing shortages. Challenging prefab’s connotations, the sectional building units are arrayed in a playful manner to demonstrate a dynamic composition from identical components. The thin shell construction or monococque structural system optimises concrete’s monolithic behaviour and its thermal mass. Reinforced and pre-stressed in the factory the concrete boxes can be fitted and infilled with interior systems to serve any housing needs.
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| Gomos Building System (inspiration: left; system representation: right) |
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