The concept of modular construction, celebrated today for its efficiency and versatility, can be traced back to the 1830s. The first recorded instance of modular construction is attributed to a London carpenter named John Manning, who crafted a prefabricated home for his son. This groundbreaking project involved the construction of various home components in advance, which were then shipped from England to Australia and assembled upon arrival. It marked the initial step in a journey that would revolutionize the construction industry.
Modular construction experienced a surge in popularity during the 1840s California Gold Rush in the United States, as it offered a swift and efficient method to meet the demands of the booming population. The approach gained further recognition when it was employed to construct the ‘Crystal Palace’ for Britain’s Great Exhibition of 1851. The technique’s efficiency was further demonstrated during World War Two when it was used to create prefab structures. After the war, it played a vital role in the rapid reconstruction of homes. This historical journey, characterized by innovation and adaptability, laid the foundation for the modern modular construction industry, leading to the establishment of organizations like the Modular Building Institute in the United States. Today, modular construction continues to evolve, offering innovative solutions for a wide range of construction needs.
