LOCAL PROJECT
hoped to design an environmentally friendly structure that is affordable . With an established mass production line , low-cost timber building is that solution .
Our current modular solutions are detailed with visible craft and precision which serves to highlight the possibility of mass-produced dwellings out of a renewable resource . It is certainly our best possible solution to cater for growing population with the intent of guarding our natural environment .
Also , for lower income markets , or for government-funded low-cost housing , small houses can typically be constructed in days without the need for any cement or concrete foundations , but rather light , on-earth piling foundations . The ‘ affordability ’ is realised in the quick turnaround time , almost zero waste and the actual look , feel and comfort of these buildings , compared to environment- and inhabitant-unfriendly , cheap porous cement block units .
RECENT LOCAL PROJECT – THE LEE STUDIO
Ikhaya Modular focuses on producing sustainable modular buildings with an end-to-end solution that are smart , through the manufacture of various-sized modules that have been pre-designed .
The company was recently commissioned to create their first Studio module , the Lee Studio .
The client , a graphic illustrator and hobby artist , and his wife , were forced to both work from home as result of the Covid pandemic . The 14m ² Studio solution was the ideal application and solution for an office space that would allow both husband and wife to work from home in separate offices . Upon consultation , the clients ’ original concept was tweaked to suit the premanufactured Ikhaya Studio module .
A major benefit was that the whole unit was fully pre-designed and manufactured in the factory in less than two weeks . The roof was fully constructed as one panel in-factory but had to be transported as a separate component because of load restrictions . The client was able to inspect the completed Studio with its complete plug and play electrical installation before the completed structure left the factory .
Another major benefit was the savings in time . Installation took three days – one day to install the subframe on Ikhaya ’ s unique piling foundation system . The Studio was delivered and placed on the subframe with a crane on the second day . The two roof panels were then put in place and fitted . The finishing touches , which included the roof flashings and final sealing was completed on day three .
The entire process , from first engaging with the client to final handover , took less than six weeks .
If a customer prefers a different configuration , Ikhaya offers a design service that allows the client to get involved to create a tailored result and design process .
Ikhaya Modular was recently commissioned to create their first Studio module .
There are currently 6 modules on offer – the popular Shack and Studio , which are the smallest modules – 11mm ² and 14m ². Their biggest modules , the Coast and Valley are 38m ² and 105m ², including deck areas , respectively – are 100 % complete when they leave the factory . The bigger modules are designed to be flat packed and suitable to fit onto a truck .
14 DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 // www . timberiq . co . za