Modular site accommodation: how the humble site cabin has evolved over time

The construction industry has been through an enormous amount of change over the last 30 years, with the move towards standardisation and modern construction methods, digitisation and improved health and safety.

Even over the last three years, construction sites have changed a great deal, with Covid-19 dictating how we work and interact with our colleagues on site.

So it’s really no surprise that site accommodation has also changed beyond all recognition. What started as a very basic shelter has been transformed into the sophisticated, modular buildings we have today, which can be designed to almost any layout and specification.

As leaders in the design, manufacture and hire of modular site accommodation, we take a look at how it has changed over time, what’s possible now, and what the future might hold.

Timber-constructed site cabins date all the way back to the 1950s, with Algeco designing cabins for use by construction workers in the post-war boom. These early versions had little more than four walls and a ceiling. By the mid-60s, stackable, steel-constructed accommodation had been introduced, and in the mid-90s, we began to see the first integrated welfare facilities.

Since then, site accommodation has progressed from individual cabins to modular, multi-storey designs that support huge numbers of people and perform many functions on-site.

Hired site accommodation is no longer regarded as just individual modules (although single modules still play an important role on many sites). Nowadays, flexible layouts are more common, with a number of modules positioned together to create spacious, open plan areas which allow for collaborative working in comfort.

The focus today is very much on staff welfare and people’s changing needs, as well as effective site management and sustainability.

Almost any specification

Today’s modular site accommodation can be created to almost any specification, with countless options when it comes to size, layout and configuration. Huge site villages can be built, using dozens of stacked and connected units. Internal walls can be moved around or removed altogether to create open plan workspaces, or added in to create individual offices. Kitchens, shower blocks, storage facilities and welfare areas can be included according to individual site needs.

From there, we have the option to add any number of systems, from sophisticated IT and communications networks to ‘smart’ technology that supports reduced energy consumption.

Our 360O turnkey solutions are extremely popular, as they can include anything from customised furniture, ramps and steps to air-conditioning and white goods. We can even supply the kettle, to help you get up and running without delay. You just buy the tea and biscuits!

Changing needs of the industry

The evolution of modular site accommodation has always been in response to the changing needs of the industry. Today’s construction companies prioritise staff welfare and good mental health more than ever before, so it stands to reason that site accommodation has developed with these needs in mind.

Facilities such as faith rooms, segregated male/female bathrooms, breakout areas, kitchens and drying rooms with dehumidifiers (all comfortably air-conditioned) are all common features of today’s site buildings.

Temporary modular buildings also have options for full-length glazed panels and covered viewing platforms, offering views of on-site activity. Security features and fire protection equipment of course come as standard. These safety and security elements, combined with a focus on the needs of a diverse workforce, are attracting new skilled workers who may not have otherwise considered a career in construction. Through the provision of thoughtfully-designed, attractive, high quality workspaces, the industry is helping to widen the talent pool and combat the skills shortage.

Designed with sustainability in mind

Modular temporary buildings are energy-efficient, well-insulated and designed with sustainability in mind. Algeco units are typically 97% recyclable and made with 48% recycled material, while the steel we use is made of 60-70% recycled material.

The green features of our site buildings make them incredibly popular, as noted by Jonathan Pringle, Algeco Business Development Manager for the housebuilder sector:

‘The industry is rightly focused on climate change and construction companies are looking for ways to work more sustainably, with many setting tough targets for emission reduction. Our buildings offer water-saving features, double glazing, climate control and energy-efficient lighting. Through the use of smart technology, they can even measure, manage and reduce energy usage. We also offer EV charger hire for electric vehicles on-site.’

‘Our site accommodation is fully in keeping with our circular economy principles. All modular buildings are re-used after project completion, reducing waste and extending the useful life of the products to more than 20 years.’ 

Safe, collaborative working

The Covid-19 pandemic increased the use of modular site accommodation within the industry. Jonathan comments:

‘The pandemic created a need for flexible, customisable working environments. Our modular buildings enable people to work safely and collaboratively. Layout changes are even possible after the building is complete, which is crucial at a time when regulations and working practices can change at short notice.’

It’s clear that site accommodation has evolved beyond all recognition since its humble beginnings. But what does Jonathan think might the future hold?

‘The current challenges with the economy and disruption to supply chains mean that construction companies need adapt and stay lean. Modular site accommodation can be easily increased and decreased according to changing requirements, and even moved to different sites to support peripatetic teams. It increases efficiency and helps to boost productivity.’

‘The focus on climate change and sustainability is here to stay, and we’ll see more and more innovation in this area. In a nutshell, modular site accommodation will keep evolving along with the needs of the people it’s designed for.’

It’s astounding to look back and see just how much site accommodation has progressed, even in the last decade. There’s no doubt that it will continue to play an important role on construction sites for years to come.

Click here to find out more about our site accommodation options.