The high-rise buildings of the future could be constructed from a modular system of building blocks. Researchers at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) have developed the module-based concept, which is highly flexible in being suited to a variety of applications, as part of the HolzHybridHochHaus project.
According to a press release issued by HSLU, Modul17 should be made from 90% wood. The wooden blocks measure 17 meters each along the sides and stand 14.5 meters in height. They are supported by four side pillars which bear the vertical strain and contain the construction technology inside. Access to the module is secured by reinforced concrete staircases, which are built on the exteriors of the modules and additionally help to stabilize overall structure.
The useable space of the module can be freely arranged, for example as a three-story office module or four-story apartment complex module with a corresponding number of false ceilings. The room height of the upper part of each module consists of truss girders that transfer the loads to the side pillars. Factory buildings, concert halls or even swimming pools are also all feasible. The exterior design of the buildings can be chosen at will. “It is even possible to retrofit an office building into a residential building – or vice versa – with Modul17”, explains Project Leader Frank Keikut from the Competence Center Typology & Planning in Architecture (CCTP) at HSLU in the press release.
The module can be stacked as desired or connected in a row. The researchers have tested a protype comprising 58 modules that stands at 130 meters in height. The components can be prefabricated. “This often shortens construction times by up to 50 percent and allows the construction process to be precisely scheduled, which is also ultimately reflected in build costs”, Keikut comments.
The project is being supported by Innosuisse, the Swiss government’s agency for the promotion of innovation.
