Design & Build Modular Blog

Modular Classrooms Solve Construction Crunch for Needham, MA School

Posted on 15. Sep, 2011 by Theresa Hazelrigg in Education, Green Building, Temporary/Relocatable Modular, Video

Triumph Modular Inc. recently installed a relocatable modular classroom complex at the Newman Elementary School in Needham, MA, enabling students to continue learning in an optimal environment during the school’s renovation.

This modular solution offers style and green features in a temporary structure. When the original school renovation is completed, Needham will have only leased the prefabricated buildings for 12-18 months.

This is a sizable installation of almost 40,000 sq. ft., and was put up in 60 days. The modular complex includes 30 classrooms, administration area, nurse’s office, 3 rest rooms and a corridor connecting the modular buildings and main building.

Time Lapse Video: Modular Classroom Complex Installation Start to Finish

Modular Classroom Features

The modular complex features 8’ clear ceiling heights, up lighting with illusion ceiling tiles, large aluminum framed 3’x6’ windows, 6’ round diameter windows to take advantage of natural light, and oak doors, shelves and coat hooks throughout. The surfaces, materials and colors used in the space are designed to provide vibrancy, fun and creative inspiration, while also promoting health, sustainability, functionality and hygienic ease of maintenance. Roof-mounted, high-efficiency “Energence™” HVAC systems by Lennox, with ERV’s, green wheel and UV light run much more quietly and floor, wall and ceiling systems are designed to limit sound transfer between rooms and dampen sound reverberation. Aluminum ramps were installed in sections for easier mobility to the next user and the HardiePanel® and FryReglet exterior provides a modern looking façade.

The modular classroom buildings meet the requirements of the Mass “Energy Stretch Code” which is an appendix to the Massachusetts State Building Code adopted in May 2009, allowing municipalities to voluntarily substitute for the standard energy code. The “stretch code” is based on the IECC  (International Energy Conservation Code) 2009, but with approximately 20% greater building efficiency requirements.

Photo courtesy of christianphillipsphoto.com

Read more details on Triumph’s sustainable green classrooms and other completed classroom projects.

Tags: green classroom, modular classroom, Portable Classrooms, prefabricated buildings, temporary classrooms