We are often asked what ‘Chip’ stands for.
This unlocks vast potential in terms of manufacturing a better quality of building - structures which are more air- and weather-tight, energy efficient and overall better performing.Further, standardisation allows us to do a better job of integrating our mechanical and electrical engineering systems, which then has the knock-on effect of reducing the overall volume of a building by 30-40%.
As the building gets smaller, so does the air handling plant.This creates a reduction in running costs - heating and lighting.In other words, we create a virtuous circle of benefit.. What is the future of the construction industry?.
Ultimately, we suspect that over time buildings will become flexible configurations of components, rather than large, fixed assets.We may end up creating loose-fit superstructures.
The superstructure contains the majority of the embodied carbon in a building.
We could design these for a 100-year total life span, while the use of standardised components would make an interior refit possible every five to ten years.We may end up creating loose-fit superstructures.
The superstructure contains the majority of the embodied carbon in a building.We could design these for a 100-year total life span, while the use of standardised components would make an interior refit possible every five to ten years.
In its initial configuration a building might function as an office block, but components could be taken out and the building changed into a residential building or school.At the end of its life, the various standardised components would be recycled, reused or redeployed, creating a circular economy.