Precast concrete specialist responds to huge housing shortage: Building smart, fast and from stock with 3D modules

CascoTotaal, a subsidiary of De Hoop Terneuzen, develops and produces innovative prefab building concepts. "All our solutions are produced in concrete," says Commercial Director Rob Hogendoorn. "In doing so, we use three-dimensional molds unique to the Netherlands, with which we produce complete 3D concrete casco^® can realize. With just one module, a tiny house or studio of > 30 m² can be realized. Fast, efficient and with minimal failure costs. Moreover, it is possible to place the modules next to and above each other like Lego bricks, up to five layers high, which also makes row houses and even apartment buildings possible."

The 3D concrete modules are cleverly combined with a concrete floor into which all the pipes are embedded, he says. "From sewer pipes to underfloor heating pipes and everything else that is needed or desired in a first floor or floor. This has the advantage that an installer is no longer needed on construction. Moreover, because the frames and windows are also pre-assembled in the modules, a wind and watertight home is created immediately. The contractor can start interior and exterior finishing immediately after assembly."

New concept: Circle

In mid-October, during the PREFAB trade fair, CascoTotaal introduced its latest concept in modular construction: Circle. "With Circle, we are responding to the need for high-quality and affordable housing for starters and transitional buyers, for example," says Hogendoorn. "The concept is actually a further development of our 3D concrete shells and includes one standardized module with a maximum interior dimension of 9.6 x 3.6 meters (lxw), with which numerous types of buildings and building forms can be made. The concept was developed in close cooperation with KAAN Architects and engineering firm ABT. Architectural and installation principles were therefore taken into account to the maximum extent in the design. The house complies fully with the new BENG requirements and the Buildings Decree. Because we work with a standardized module, we can also produce from stock. This only makes true industrial modular construction possible, with all the additional (cost) benefits."

Circular to the bone

Also distinctive is the sustainability of Circle, says Hogendoorn. "The concept is very smart and circularly designed. For example, the production 30% uses less concrete than other construction methods, which also reduces emissions by 30%. Also, the standardized module allows for high-quality reuse. Due to the careful separation of shell construction, finishing and installations, components can be easily and properly separated and reused. For example, several tiny houses can be converted into one residential block and vice versa. It is also possible to move the houses to another location. If no new destination is found, the concrete can be processed into granulate and reused in the production process. This keeps the product chain closed at all times and our concept is 'circular to the bone'."

Meanwhile, CascoTotaal has already produced 3D concrete airframes^® delivered for more than 500 homes. So the technology has more than proven itself, Hogendoorn said. "Now it's time for the next step: modularity. In recent months we have tested our concept with several clients. This led to very enthusiastic reactions. For example, from project developers and architects, who see great opportunities for the housing sector. We can install up to 16 3D concrete modules per day. Moreover, by supplying the modules from stock, we can start building today. Smart, fast and fully circular."