The trend of self-built homes is gaining popularity in Belgium, with more companies now offering kit building systems.
This kit construction method provides simpler, more efficient and sustainable construction than traditional houses and great financial savings. Nearly 100 self-built houses have so far been completed using this approach in Belgium and neighbouring countries.
One house in Ville-Sur-Yron, near Metz, France, for example, is being constructed using the 'Brikawood' system. Numbered wooden pallets and beams ensure precise assembly. The use of wood wool as insulation allows for moisture absorption and zero waste, as all manufacturing by-products are repurposed. The initial construction work, including foundation laying, is handled by the designers, while the owners participate in the insulation process.
The pieces fit together like a jigsaw puzzle, without the need for glue, screws or nails. Electrical cables and water pipes are accommodated within the structure. The 37 cm bricks provide excellent insulation, maintaining a consistent temperature of 21-22°C. Furthermore, this system allows for easy dismantling and relocation without excessive material or energy waste.
Belgian firm Gablok, led by Simon Schloessen, provides a similar kit construction approach. The customer presents a validated project, which is then modelled in 3D to address any structural weaknesses. The required blocks, beams and floor elements are packed into pallets and delivered as the construction progresses.
Building benefits for Belgium
Belgium, a country known for its rich architectural heritage, has witnessed a significant rise in modular housing in recent years. This innovative building approach has captured the imagination of Belgian homeowners and developers alike, offering a range of benefits including cost-effectiveness, sustainability and design versatility.
One of the primary reasons for the surge in modular housing popularity is its cost-effectiveness. By utilising factory-based production methods and standardised components, modular homes can be constructed more efficiently, saving both time and money.
For instance, the Belgian company Ark Shelter specialises in building modular cabins that are eco-friendly and affordable. Their compact yet stylish designs allow homeowners to achieve their dream comfortable and sustainable dwelling at a fraction of the cost of traditional construction.
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Belgium's growing environmental consciousness has also contributed to the popularity of modular housing. Modular homes are inherently sustainable, as the controlled factory setting enables precise material usage and waste reduction.
Modular homes are also renowned for their efficient construction process. Since the majority of the building process occurs in a factory, weather-related delays are significantly minimised. This advantage has caught the attention of Belgian developers seeking quick and reliable construction solutions.
Modular housing offers a remarkable level of design flexibility. The misconception that prefabricated homes lack aesthetic appeal is being shattered by innovative Belgian architects and designers.
The rise of modular housing signifies a shift towards innovative and forward-thinking approaches to homebuilding, ensuring a promising future for the Belgian housing market.
