Prefabricated Construction in the Residential Real Estate Market

March 2025

http://dx.doi.org/10.2478/remav-2025-0004

Authors:

Małgorzata Krajewska
Nicolaus Copernicus University

Ewa Siemińska
Nicolaus Copernicus University

Izabela Rącka
Calisia University - Kalisz Poland

Kinga Szopińska
Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology

Ivo Kostov
University of Economics Varna

PREFABRICATED CONSTRUCTION IN THE RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE MARKET

Małgorzata Krajewska¹, Ewa Siemińska², Izabela Rącka³*, Kinga Szopińska¹, Ivo Kostov⁴

1. Department of Geodesy, Spatial Management and Real Estate, Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, 7 prof. S. Kaliskiego Av., 85-796 Bydgoszcz, Poland, (MK) e-mail: malgorzata.krajewska@pbs.edu.pl, ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8541-2295; (KS) e-mail: k.szopinska@pbs.edu.pl, ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2702-936X
2. Department of Investment and Real Estate, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, ul. Gagarina 11, 87-100 Toruń, Poland, e-mail: ewahsiem@umk.pl, ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8885-0338
3. Institute of Social Sciences, University of Kalisz, ul. Nowy Świat 4, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland, e-mail: i.racka@uniwersytetkaliski.edu.pl, ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2344-0901
4. Department of Business, Investment, Real Estate, University of Economics – Varna, 77 Kniaz Boris I Blvd., 9002 Varna, Bulgaria, e-mail: i.kostov@ue-varna.bg, ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5623-471X
* Corresponding author

Abstract

Persistent housing shortages and escalating housing investment costs in numerous countries drive the search for technologies that enable faster, cost-effective housing development. Prefabrication technology has emerged as a promising solution, which enables buildings to be constructed in significantly shorter timeframes compared to traditional methods. This approach utilizes prefabricated structural elements manufactured in controlled factory settings, leading to a substantial reduction in the carbon footprint associated with the construction process.

This study focuses on two primary objectives: 1) Identifying the key factors for integrating prefabricated construction technology into the multifamily housing market, especially within the framework of sustainable development policies and the growing housing gap, and 2) Examining buyer preferences to assess their openness toward prefabricated construction in the multifamily residential market. Identification of the determinants of the implementation of prefabricated technology was carried out based on comprehensive literature review and critique of source documents. Additionally, buyer preference surveys were conducted among residents in post-communist Central and Eastern European countries (Poland, Bulgaria, and Ukraine).

$220,000 Four Story Four Apartments Prefabricated Modular Housing, Chile

Floor Plans
3D Renderings
Construction Process
About ELEMENTAL Architecture

Project	Chusmisa Housing Wildfire Reconstruction
Architects	ELEMENTAL
Area	252m² (4 apartments of 63m²)
Modules	8 prefabricated living modules and 3 prefabricated roof modules
Manufacturing Time	1 month
Installation Time	1 day (+5 days of finishing)
Project Cost	$220,000
Location	Viña del Mar, Chile
Year	2025

A year after the mega-fire in Viña del Mar and with only 26% progress in the reconstruction work in the area, the ELEMENTAL office and local authorities began the construction of a prefabricated modular housing project in one of the residential neighborhoods most affected by the catastrophe. It is a medium-density residential building with a modular metal structure that aims to serve as a starting point for other similar modular projects, in response to what is now considered one of the most catastrophic events in the recent history of Chile. The objective, declared by both Alejandro Aravena and the mayor of the city, Macarena Ripamonti, is that the technology and management model behind this prefabricated housing project serve as a precedent to deliver rapid and definitive modular housing solutions in emergency scenarios.

Preventing basement flooding by controlling sewer backflow in Canadian homes

Sewer Backflow as a Hidden Source of Interior Flooding

Basement flooding in Canadian homes is often associated with heavy rainfall or groundwater pressure, but a less visible and equally dangerous cause is sewer backflow. When municipal systems are overloaded, wastewater can reverse direction and enter a property through floor drains or lower-level fixtures. This type of intrusion bypasses traditional waterproofing measures and causes sudden interior damage.

NKN-Softshell - Semi-Permanent Prefab Cabin with Fabric Roof and Walls, Allow for Easy Transport and Assembly

Floor Plans
About Nokken
About Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG)

Project	NKN-Softshell
Architects	Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), Nokken
Area	18sqm (195sqft)
Outer Dimentions	4.2m (w) x 4.2m (l) x 4.6m (h)
Price	From € 18,950 / $ 22,500
Year	2024

Nokken and Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) collaborate on Softshell, a semi-permanent prefab cabin addressing the evolving needs of hospitality and residential markets. Combining architectural innovation with environmental responsibility, Softshell redefines mobile accommodations for eco-resorts, glamping sites, boutique hotels, and beyond. Softshell caters to a global shift toward experiential, eco-friendly travel, offering a low-impact structure that blends harmoniously with its surroundings. The lightweight sustainably sourced timber frame and recyclable canvas, produced in Spain, allow for easy transport and assembly in remote areas.

Nokken cofounder Nathan Aylott explains that the Softshell cabin, developed with BIG, is a direct response to the glamping market’s reliance on yurts and bell tents. “For the past fifteen to twenty years, bell tents and yurts have essentially become the default choice for new glamping sites,” he says. The Softshell offers an alternative — a structure instantly recognizable as a cabin but with a far smaller footprint than standard prefabricated buildings.

Each cabin is delivered in four compact crates, enabling operators to set it up without heavy construction equipment. Its assembly is deliberately simple: two people can erect the frame within a few hours by connecting precut timber sections and sliding them into metal fasteners. This modular approach allows the Softshell to be installed even in locations where traditional building methods are impractical.

Ecocapsule - 10 sqm (≈100 sqft) Off-The-Grid Portable Home by Nice Architects

Video
Contact Info
About Nice Architects

Ecocapsule is an off-the-grid portable home designed by Nice Architects and offering an unmatched dwelling experience. With its flexibility, worldwide portability and immense off-the-grid life span it is suitable for a wide range of applications and purposes: from a tourist lodge or an independent research station to a humanitarian-action unit or an emergency housing.

Ecocapsule is a low-energy prefab home packed into a compact and efficient form. It merges a off-the-grid capabilities, compact volume and close to maximum energy efficient shape with the luxuries of a hot meal, running water and a warm bed.




Even though very small in size, each unit comfortably houses two adults. The efficient spatial layout design allows you to enjoy familiar convenience of usual homehold facilities in off-the-grid conditions. Hot shower, built-in kitchenette and toilet are luxuries of a hotel room that are now available for using in wilderness also.

Plenty of storage space can fit all your travel, research or sport equipment. Despite its small size each Ecocapsule unit is fitted with all basic and essential features necessary for a prolonged and comfortable stay without a need to re-supply or recharge.

Power

Ecocapsule off-the-grid portable home is powered by an array of solar cells complemented with a built-in wind turbine. High-capacity battery (9744Wh) and dual power system ensures that unit will have enough power during periods of reduced wind or solar activity. The surface of an Ecocapsule unit is covered with high-efficiency solar cells with 2.6 sqm of area (600W) and a retractable pole holding a wind turbine (750W) is further attached to the unit. This creates a system with possibility to harvest an energy that can support comfortable conditions almost year-round in many off-the-grid locations.

Water

External spherical shape is designed with optimization for the collection of dew and rainwater. Moreover, water from any sources can be cleaned and utilized by built-in water filters.

Dimensions, weigh and shipping

Sizes of Ecocapsule (HxLxW 2.55×4.45×2.25m/4.5m with extended pole) allow it to be shipped into a standard shipping container. No precautions or special preparations are necessary to transport the cabin worldwide. It can be towed, airlifted, shipped or even pulled by a pack animal. Weigh of the off-the-grid portable home is 1500kg.

Walking Robotic Off-Grid Mobile Home Concept by Encho Enchev

About Encho Enchev

Description by designer

This is a mobile vacation home concept. The house is meant to be for 2 people and a pet. It is fully functional and in theory should be possible to be built in the near future :) I am posting a lot of renders that present most of the features of the house. One of the things that is not visible in the images is the 4 deployable harpoons for additional stability in rough sloped terrain. The mechanical legs are equipped with 5cm layer of non-slippery rubber on the bottom. They also have 2 deployable spikes on each leg. The design of the interior is modern, high-tech and minimalistic. All the windows are using the "smart glass" technology. There are also traditional curtains for the old fashioned customers. The bathroom is situated in the middle of the interior (for privacy). There is a large storage space under the living area.

The "standart" version includes: 1 ATW / 2 mountain bikes / 2 shezlong / 2 terrace chairs + table / 1 emergency diesel fuel generator / 1 BBQ unit and additional supply and tool boxes.

Cheers!

Innovative Protective Enclosures: Enhancing Reliability In Harsh Industrial Environments

In the rugged landscape of industrial settings, ensuring equipment reliability is non-negotiable. Extreme temperatures, excessive moisture, or high levels of airborne particles pose formidable challenges. To shield sensitive equipment from these extreme conditions, conventional solutions often fall short.

This is where the role of protective enclosures becomes crucial. By erecting robust barriers against environmental threats, these structures keep your equipment operational, reducing downtime and minimizing maintenance costs. Understanding the workings and advantages of these innovative measures can empower you to make informed decisions about securing your industrial assets. 

Exploring The Versatility Of Fabric Buildings In Commercial Applications

Fabric buildings have transformed the commercial landscape, offering innovative solutions for diverse applications. Their versatility makes them an attractive option for many industries, from agriculture to manufacturing.

These structures provide numerous benefits, including cost efficiency, quick installation, and flexibility. Understanding the various uses of fabric buildings can help businesses make informed decisions about their construction needs.

Continue reading to discover how fabric buildings can meet the unique demands of your industry.

Custom Modular Direct - Modular Homes Supplier - CT, DE, GA, KY, IL, IN, ME, MD, MA, MI, MO, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VT, VA, WV

Custom Modular Direct offers a large variety of different styles of modular homes. With a build area that stretches from Georgia straight north (including the eastern parts of Tennessee and Kentucky), their catalog includes every classic home style imaginable. They are able to do standard customization on standard homes, and even build custom homes from scratch.

Irontown Homes - Modular Homes Manufacturer - MT, ID, WY, NV, CO, AZ, CA, OR, UT

A premier provider of modular homes serving regions from Colorado all the way West to the Pacific, Irontown Homes is known for providing quality custom-built homes of all shapes and sizes.

Irontown Homes has been building modular homes for close to 40 years. From complete custom modern designs to traditional upscale homes, Irontown Homes takes a unique approach by building to match what each customer wants. While Irontown Homes has more than 30 home plans, each can be fully customized based on what each customer wants.

Irontown Homes focuses on building sustainable, energy-efficient homes in the Western United States and can produce single module retreats that are as small as 400 sq. ft. to multi-module homes more than 10,000 sq. ft.