Delivering Sustainable and More Modern Housing with Modular Skills
Energy efficient modular homes, built with Modern Methods of Construction, have arrived in Bluebell. How did DME Modular Ireland execute this ambitious project?
DME Modular Ireland (also known as Modular Express) has launched its first net zero modular home scheme in Bluebell. Six one-bedroom units have been built for the Approved Housing Body Tiglin Challenge (Tiglin), which supports individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. Each features energy-efficient windows and doors; modern kitchens and bathrooms; smart lighting; and air-source heat pumps.
Modular Express specialises in 3D volumetric modular residential buildings. These homes are crafted in a factory-controlled environment before being transported to site for installation. There are numerous benefits over traditional construction methods:
- Faster, more cost-effective delivery: With streamlined production processes, modular homes can be delivered and assembled in a fraction of the time compared to conventional building projects, saving time and money.
- Lower environmental impact: These homes are designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating energy-efficient features to minimise their carbon footprint while also reducing utility bills and ensuring a comfortable living space.
- Greater customisation: Modular homes still offer a high degree of personalisation of layouts and fittings to meet homeowners’ preferences.
Deborah Smyth, Founder and Managing Director of Modular Express, got into modular building in 2017, to contribute towards the development more energy saving homes.
This is a point she feels strongly about, with energy efficient modern homes having the dual benefits of a lower environmental footprint and lower utilities costs.
After years of real estate experience, I realised modular builds—when executed well—are more comfortable and offer better quality and energy efficiency.
Founder and Managing Director of Modular Express
These benefits contribute toward Deborah’s overall guiding philosophy that everyone, no matter their background or personal circumstances, deserves a nice home.
Everyone should be able to cook a hot meal and have a shower without needing to check the metre all the time.
Founder and Managing Director of Modular Express
Deborah first met Tiglin after donating a modular unit for the use of autistic children in the Bluebell community. Both Modular Express and Tiglin shared the vision to bring low energy, sustainable homes to the local market. This led to the development of the new scheme, which also holds the full support of the Bluebell Community Council.
Modular Express is now looking at providing affordable, high-quality community housing with a strategic interest. Deborah says that supporting the social housing sector is critical to building up the profile of DME Modular Ireland and underpinning the organisation’s vision for everyone to be able to live in a modern, energy efficient home.
