Modular Construction: Flexibility and Security in Uncertain Times

14 Jan 2026

The construction industry is under pressure. Rising construction and material prices, long delivery times, stricter requirements, and the need for future-proof construction are creating complex choices. Hospitals and healthcare institutions, in particular, are therefore seeking smart and future-proof solutions.

Modular construction offers that solution. It combines speed, flexibility, and cost certainty. But what exactly is modular construction? And how does such a project proceed? And what are the advantages and disadvantages? In this blog post, we explain.

What is Modular Construction?
Modular construction is a methodology in which prefabricated units – modules – are largely produced in a factory. These modules are then assembled on-site into a complete building. This is considered to a key element of the Modern Methods of Construction (MMC).

One of the biggest advantages is flexibility. Unlike traditional construction, modular construction allows for renting or leasing. This is crucial in a market where predicting the future is becoming increasingly difficult.

Modular buildings are easy to scale up and down. This prevents organizations from being left with large, partially vacant buildings years later, which entail high maintenance and demolition costs. Think of the concrete (sometimes asbestos-filled) hospital wings from the 1970s. Moreover, modular buildings can be easily disassembled even after 50 years. The modules are reusable, which also makes modular construction circular and sustainable.

How does modular construction work?

A modular construction process revolves around tight planning and maximum certainty. Ideally, the entire cycle should be managed by a single party. By combining Design, Build, Finance, and Maintenance with a single provider, the process is significantly shortened and simplified. Communication problems between external parties disappear, grey areas are eliminated, and valuable time is not wasted.

Medexs is such a partner. We distinguish four clear construction phases:
Phase 1: Design and Budgeting
Thanks to our in-house expertise – designers, draftsmen, and consultants – external parties are minimally needed. Due to the standardization of modular construction, a preliminary design can be created within a week. The transition to a preliminary design is quickly made. We involve the user as much as possible in this process.
Based on extensive reference projects, we quickly link this to a realistic budget. This way, the feasibility of a project is clear from an early stage.

Phase 2: Final Design and Contract
Before construction begins, the design is further developed into a final design. Because modules are prefabricated, everything must be precisely defined in advance.
Based on the final design, a final cost estimate is prepared.
The design is therefore “frozen.” This allows us to guarantee a fixed price at the end of the project with a fixed schedule – an important form of certainty for the client.

Phase 3: Parallel Construction
After the contract is signed, construction begins in two parallel phases:
1. Fabrication (factory)
70% to 80% of the work takes place in the factory, in a controlled and dry environment. This benefits quality and continuity. Weather conditions, with their associated delays and risks, are not a factor, and all electrical and mechanical installations are prepared as much as possible in the factory.
2. On-Site Preparation

Simultaneously, the groundwork and foundations are constructed on-site. We often opt for low-vibration techniques, such as screw piles instead of driven piles. This is especially essential for hospitals to minimize disruption to the healthcare environment.

Phase 4: Assembly and Finishing
Because most of the work has already been completed in our factory, most of the noise, dust, and logistical activities take place there. Unlike traditional on-site construction, these are not desirable. This prefabrication process significantly shortens the on-site construction time.

The construction process is up to 50% faster than traditional construction. The final result is consistent in both look and feel. We use many of the same materials and brands, ensuring the end result is identical for both the user and the client.

Modular construction offers managers the certainty they seek in a complex construction process. By outsourcing everything to a single provider, risks are minimized and control over costs, scheduling, and quality is maintained.