Our approach is about a “left shift” – thinking about construction and logistics much earlier in the design process. Digital tools help to enable this, but it's the way of working that is different. For example, detailed fabrication information is produced at the concept design stage. This enables us to identify the components that can be fixed at the very start and create a catalogue of components that can be reused across future projects, programs or a wider set of assets in a portfolio. This speeds up decision-making for anything that is repeatable, as these decisions are linked to fabrication-ready content.

We believe the kit-of-parts approach can be used widely across the construction industry and are currently applying it to the aviation, rail, industrial, life sciences, defence, data center, energy and residential sectors. It delivers the most benefits at a program level (across multiple projects) where each project is optimised for speed and decision-making once the first project is complete.

Volumetric construction is just one of many Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) technologies that can bring the efficiency and speed of manufacturing to construction. But it’s not the only one, and it may not be right for every project.

Our kit-of-parts approach enables clients and design teams to identify appropriate construction materials and methods based on project requirements at the start of a program, determining the most appropriate MMC technologies and the best balance between on and offsite working. From concept stage onwards, the design can be optimised for delivery via the chosen solution and reused on future projects to free up design time and create potential economies of scale.