Publications and Research

We’re keen to share the learning from the development of our ‘NU build’ system so, as well as welcoming over 1,000 visitors to our modular housing factory (including four Ministers); taking part in a range of thought leadership work including both the GLA and MHCLG, Swan have worked in partnership with Waugh Thistleton Architects and Ramboll to develop a modular design guide.

This guide sets out considerations for designing modular housing, based on the NU build modular system.

It aims to give the design team an understanding of the interrelationship between the consultants, the client and the factory.

Designing for modular means thinking about how each module is made, transported and assembled at every stage of the design development. It does not mean standardising homes but considering the standard process of manufacture.

This guide is not a pattern book, but instead presents topics for the reader to consider during the design process, offering guidance notes to aid the designer in finding solutions. It should be used alongside all relevant regulations and legislation.

Published 2019 by Swan

Text by: Waugh Thistleton Architects, NU living & Ramboll

Geoff Pearce, Swan’s Executive Director of Regeneration and Development commented:

Swan is truly committed to delivering innovation. Having opened our own offsite modular factory in 2017, we are convinced that this method will enable us to deliver high-quality homes that people will want to live in, at the same time building local and national expertise in manufacturing and supporting the UK modular industry. This guide, we hope, will encourage others to consider modular, whilst enabling high-quality homes to be built, quicker, more sustainably and at a lower cost.”

Andrew Waugh, Founding Partner, Waugh Thistleton Architects said:

The NU build guide is the culmination of two years of collaborative work with Swan developing their modular system. Speed of delivery, efficiency of production and waste reduction are at the heart of this book, demonstrating how the construction industry can modernise to meet the 21st century demands for quality as well as responding to the urgent climate emergency we face.”