A new article by Fast Company explains MiTek’s new Modular Initiative, a partnership with New York City-based architectural firm Danny Forster & Architecture (DF&A), and how it’s changing the way that modular construction is not only utilized, but perceived. Past attempts at large-scale modular construction of this nature have involved building large steel boxes that are difficult to transport—having to be carefully navigated under bridges and overpasses on the back of a truck. The beauty of MiTek’s approach is to build a collapsible box that can lay flat and then ship to pop-up warehouse locations close to the jobsite. This can help incentivize local unions and governments as it provides jobs within the community.

That doesn’t mean there won’t be challenges. A McKinsey report from 2019 suggested that shifting to off-site construction could reduce labor costs by roughly 25%, meaning less work for union laborers. It would also mean acclimating crews to working in a warehouse and not on the job site. However, MiTek’s Modular Initiative is a long-term investment and is prepared to meet these challenges head on.

To read the Fast Company article, follow the link below.

MiTek’s new Modular Initiative looks to modernize the modular building process by performing off-site construction near the construction site, making transportation of the units safer and less expensive. Discussed in a new Wall Street Journal article, assembly of these units will be done by general contractors in the warehouse, instead of on the jobsite, and allow for mechanical, electrical and plumbing to be pre-installed in an enclosed environment.

This initiative plans to automate much of its 225,000-square-foot factory by using robot welders and other automated systems—similar to the production line of the automotive industry. This will allow construction to not just be faster but more efficient, allowing for cost savings and increased safety.

To read the Wall Street Journal article, follow the link below.

MiTek is on a mission to make modular mainstream to help the construction industry answer the global demand for smarter, more affordable, and more sustainable buildings and communities. Watch our story of how we are approaching modular below to see how we plan to transform the construction industry.

The MiTek modular team is looking for new members who are ready to help change the building industry!

MiTek has partnered with Danny Forster & Architecture (DF&A), a New York City-based architecture firm, to form their Modular Initiative—with a mission to help the construction industry answer the global demand for smarter, more affordable, and more sustainable buildings and communities. DF&A will be responsible for spearheading the design while researching alongside MiTek’s R&D and New Market Growth teams.

This Modular Initiative is made possible by the development of a Modular Activation Platform (MAP) that not only simplifies the construction of a modular building, but makes it accessible to developers, GCs, and architects that have no previous experience with modular. When every builder can make the choice to use modular, the methodology can apply to a wide range of sectors: hospitality, health care, education, multi-family residential. Every building type that has repeatable elements can benefit from the efficiencies of modular.

You can download the full press release below.