Modular Student Housing France

Challenges 

Meet stringent French norms and regulations (Fire, thermal, acoustic, electrical, handicap etc.). Source compliant products. Manufacture and export with a tight schedule. High quality, trendy and durable low maintenance finishes. 

Solution 

Design and Prototype: Worked hand in hand with a French client to develop modular student housing. Through various iterations of full scale 40 foot HC custom prototypes (5 prototypes over 3 years), a cost effective and turnkey module was developed that meets all French codes and norms. Each module is a completely custom-built container like structure with specific reinforcements, yet stays within a 40' HC container dimensions to ensure cost effective shipping around the world. 

Testing and procurement: Module is fully CSC plated and travels as a normal container. An extensive procurement phase was carried out to source a maximum number of French code-compliant components in China. All necessary testing and certification were carried out prior to mass production. Certain items (electrical wire harness, window blinds, etc.) were purchased in France and imported for assembly into the finished module before being re-exported. 

Production: In 2014, we completed the delivery of 131 fully furnished modules (28m2) in 5 months. Each unit leaves the factory completely finished as a plug and play module, with a bathroom, kitchen, integrated hallway, central heating, plumbing, electric, and built in furniture. Once installed on site, the module is ready to move in. XCUBE led the project management from start to finish. Production was completed in a leased facility. 

Applicable fields

Student housing, assisted living, retirement homes, budget hotels, Short stay accommodation 

Advantages 

Speed, replicable, mass production, intelligent integrated multifunctional cabinetry, quality, cost competitive.