RELEVANCE OF PREFABRICATED CONSTRUCTION IN

RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS OF KERALA

Amith Krishnan
Guided By;
Ar. Anjith Augustine
Assistant Professor

Abstract:

Pre-fabricated construction is now rapidly growing in Kerala’s context. People are attracted
towards steel and pre-fabricated structure mainly because of low budget and fast
construction. This research shows how the aspect of conceptual design is achieved when using
pre-fabricated material. The idea is to study the aspects like space optimization, aesthetics
and visual impacts, flexibility and use of space by using steel and gypsum in residential building
and comparing with the conventional residential buildings of Kerala. Through this research in
looking into only budgeted homes under 2500.00soft.The construction process is studied
through books and internet and two literature case studies are also conducted to understand
why steel and gypsum is rapidly used in construction industry. The primary and secondary data
collected from about literature case studies and literature review. For the final conclusion of
research is done by doing 4 live case studies which 2 project are under the pre-fabricated
construction method and 2 of them for conventional construction method. Each project for
the live case study is taken from the same location and each having the same design
requirement. After doing the live case study I come to conclusion by doing interviews with
designers, contactors and client and users. In interview I have prepared several questions, for
answers of each questions I have rated marks out of 5. This helped me to conclude answers
for my research question.

After visiting the buildings and interviewing the designers and the users of the buildings, I
came to a conclusion that gypsum and steel is a very good option to consider for the residential
buildings along the context of Kerala. For building owners if the construction is finished as fast
as possible it will be cost saving for them.

But when going through the other aspects of steel and gypsum which will be sometime not
space optimization, aesthetics and visual impacts, flexibility and use of space.

1

INTRODUCTION
The material cost and the construction costs
are increasing in Kerala these days and the
availability of material is reducing. So there is
an increasing demand in the construction
sector for an alternate method which solves
these currently faced issues to a certain
extend. (Why Build Modular, 10 Oct 2013)
Modular and prefabricated construction is a
new method introduced in Kerala in past 5
years. Modular construction is commonly
known as pre-fabricated construction.
(Modular construction , 2 Jan 2014)
ERIALS RATE ON 2019 RATE O

Semi Wire cut brick 12.0 per piece 8.0 per piece
9”x 4”x3”
Solid concrete blocks 28.0 per piece 20.0 per piece
16”x8”x4”

Binding wire 16 gauge 66 per kg 55 per kg

Steel TMT Bars 53 per kg 46 per kg

M-Sand 14000.00 for 200 12000.00 for 200 CFT

CFT
Plastering sand river 28000.00 for 500 22000.00 for 500 CFT
sand CFT
Metal 4 mm 11000.00 for 200 6000.00 for 200 CFT
CFT
Cement 406.00 for 50kg 350.00 for 50kg

Table 1 Approximate material cost as per 2019 and2016

(From interview with contactor Mr.Mahesh and Mr.sanju from Thrissur)

MATERIAL COST CAMPARISON OF PAST

4 YEARS
Rate on 2019 Rate on 2016
140
110
70
66

60

55
54

53
46

40
35
30
28
20
12
8

1
Background and Context
Why pre-fabricated construction?
Reduction in construction time: Either the
structure can be constructed cast in situ or
factory made. Commonly the pre-fabricated
structures are made off site, by this can reduce,
and save large amount of construction time in
site. (W; Why Build Modular, 10 Oct 2013)
This result in saving all around from inventory
to construction of temporary accommodation,
and factors such as interruptions and dust are
eliminated.
With reduce construction the cost is
significantly reduced. Pre-fabricated structure
have high level of automation which make cost
effective than traditional construction
methods. (Alatza, 1 jan 2014)
In case of durability and strength, the buildings
are durable and lightweight due to the large
amount of use of steel, which is considered as
strong building material. (Why Build Modular,
10 Oct 2013)
These structures are against weather which
leads to wind storm and rain, and commonly
seen defect cracking also be reduced. (W)
(Alatza, 1 jan 2014)
Research
Questions
1) Understanding opportunities and
constrains of prefabricated
construction in Kerala? - A feasibility
study on residential application in
context of Thrissur.
2)
 Space optimization
 Aesthetics and Visual impacts.
 Flexibility and use of space.
should be studied, but a brief study on the economic factors while the construction process is also
considered.
Objectives:
1
How these aspects can be compared with pre-
fabricated and conventional construction
method?
Research Sub questions
1) How does steel and gypsum can
become a major construction material
for the residential scale?
2) What are the merits and demerits of
steel and gypsum over the
conventional method?
3) How does these materials help in
Space optimization, Aesthetics and
Visual impacts, Flexibility and use of
space? In comparison with the
conventional method.
4) What will be the difference in cost and
time in these construction method?
study through comparing the cost of
different materials and time taken for
the different works in these methods
of construction
Aim and objectives
By doing a research I am aiming to study and
understand how using steel and gypsum as a
major structural element in residential building
helps in design flexibility, Space optimization,
Aesthetics and Visual impacts, When
compared to the conventional structured
residential buildings. The study will be limited
to three factors on conceptual design stage,
which is space optimization, aesthetics and
visual impacts and flexibility of use and use of
space.
The economical aspect is also a major factor
that
 1) To find how steel and gypsum become
as a major construction material in
residential building over the
conventional method.
2) To find the different advantages and
disadvantages this method of
construction
3) To find the efficient method of
construction by looking at the aspects
of Space optimization Aesthetics and
Visual impacts. Flexibility and use of
space.
Scope, limitations and significance
Pre-fabricated construction is a vast topic. In
this particular type of construction there are
various methods. In addition, various factors
affect the particular type of construction.
Here I am studying how to prefabricate
residential building with steel gypsum/ALC
panels. The particular type of contraction with
steel is now fully fledged in the commercial
sector of Kerala. Gypsum and steel are now
widely available in Kerala form manufactures
like FACT, so the availability of material will not
be limitation in this method. Here I am looking
in to how these materials can change the
typology of traditional construction method.
The study will be much of a qualitative analysis
and comparison of buildings, which is
constructed, in both traditional and
prefabricated method in all over Kerala.In
addition, the study is dealing with use, types,
Quality, time and the importance in future
years
I am only looking through three factors, which
are space optimisation, aesthetics and visual
impact and flexibility of use and optimisation
of space, which are three factors that affect the
conceptual design analysis. In addition, the
study will be on buildings, which come under
the residential buildings within the state.
As the limitation to the topic, am not dealing
with the structural analysis of the particular
a building project in as much as half the time
required for methods that are more
traditional. (Design in Modular Construction, 6
1
construction type. Few architects in Kerala
practice the particular construction methods
and majorly civil engineers and contractors
practice the method. Therefore, the data
produced is collected from contractors and
civil engineers.
More than live case study I have interacted
with 5 architects in kerala to understand their
opinion about the particular type of
construction. As limitation to this my result and
conclusion for this interaction will be only
based on their opinion.
Even though the major attention of the paper
will be on the conceptual design analysis, the
financial aspects during the construction
process will also be studied, in a scale, which
will give a brief idea how steel, and gypsum
residences differ from conventional typology
of residences. The study will be limited to a
specific building typology, which are small
residences under 2000.00 sqft within the state.
LITERATURE REVIEW
This chapter explores the current theories and
literature on the prefabricated construction. It
begins with an overall understanding
prefabricated construction with in the world.
Further, the different types of prefabricated
construction and their advantages and
disadvantages are explored and studied about
GFRG panels, Steel structures and ALC panels.
The relevance of prefabricated construction in
residential buildings of Kerala is examined in
the background of the research context.
Prefabricated structures
Prefabricated construction is a process in
which sections of modules of the edifice are
assembled at a remote location, and then
transported to the building site. This particular
construction method is very cost-effective
(Design in Modular Construction, 6 Mar 2017)
and often makes it possible to complete
Mar 2017)Prefabricated construction is
commonly employed with the construction of
new homes; the strategy can also be used with
other buildings. (A, 1 Mar 2011)
At the site, the modules are unloaded, with
heavy machinery, and connected to form a
single building. Along with the fast assembly,
prefabricated construction can often save a
great deal of money. (Alatza, 1 jan 2014) By
using normal patterns, the building materials
are pre-cut at the factory .This eliminates a
great deal of the waste in materials that can
occur during the process of building. As a
result, a prefabricated house with three
bedrooms have less cost than a three-bedroom
house that is constructed in conventional
method. (Alatza, 1 jan 2014).
One other benefit of prefabricated
construction is the energy efficiency of this
type of building typology . Because the sections
of a home are precut, and they are fit together,
to form a complete home. This means less
effort to heat and cool the space, resulting in
lower utility bills. (Design in Modular
Construction, 6 Mar 2017)
Prefabricated construction in Kerala:
Since the material availability and skilled labor
is reducing in the construction field of Kerala,
more advanced and budgeted constriction
methods wanted to be introduced in the
construction field of Kerala. By this can change
the present scenario of construction and can
improve the construction quality with in short
time period. (Why Build Modular, 10 Oct 2013)
Flexibility in design:
Prefabricated construction can easily
demolished and shifted to other sites. This will
reduce the demand for materials and create
more energy saving and can reduce time
required for construction. Modular
construction create more flexibility in
architectural design and structural design. (A, 1
Mar 2011)
Consistent quality:
The quality will change according different
contractors. In pre-fabricated construction the
works are done form the factory and which are
executed in site. Machine do most of the works
so it is giving a consistent quality in work. The
pre-fabricated materials are carried out
2
various quality checks from the factory itself
and thereby can create consistent quality. (A, 1
Mar 2011).
Reduce site disruption:
Since many components of a building are done
in the factory, so there is significantly less work
in final construction site. This limits the
disruption of traditional jobsites that suffer
from noise, pollution, waste and other
common irritants. (A, 1 Mar 2011) This
approach to construction provides a far more
efficient productivity, and eliminates
distractions and interference that are typical of
construction sites. (Design in Modular
Construction, 6 Mar 2017)
Shorter construction time:
Since the construction materials and the pre-
fabricated materials are portable, it can reduce
the construction time. (A, 1 Mar 2011) The pre-
fabricated construction takes half the time of
traditional conventional methods. This due to
better planning, elimination of site weather
factors, quicker fabrication as multiple units.
(A, 1 Mar 2011)
Safety in construction :
Since most of the works are done from factory,
there is less risk from moisture environmental
hazards and dirt. An indoor construction
environment presents considerably less risks
for accidents and other problems. There are
strict factory processes and procedures that
protect the worker from on-the-job injury. At a
construction site, workers are subjected to
weather-related conditions, changing ground
conditions, wind and other crewmembers will
create lot of problems for workers.
Literature Review on Gypsum inside the enterprise, is the name given to a
new constructing panel product that is
Introduction
fabricated from gypsum plaster and
The glass fibre reinforced gypsum is GFRG. (S. strengthened with glass fibres. GFRG is of
Vishnu, 11 Nov 2018 ) It’s far the name of a specific relevance to India. There’s a
brand new building panel product extraordinary need for price-effective mass-
manufactured from gypsum plaster with glass scale low-priced housing wherein gypsum is
fibres and it's also referred to as fast wall in the amply available as an industrial derivative
industry. (Modular construction , 2 Jan 2014) waste. The product is not most effective green
This product is suitable for speedy mass-scale or inexperienced, however additionally
building creation, became at first evolved, and resistant to water and fireplace. (S. Vishnu, 11
was used in view that 1990 in Australia. Nov 2018 )
(Eldhose M Manjummekudiyil, March
2015)The product isn't best ecofriendly ,
however is likewise proof against water and
fireplace. (Modular construction , 2 Jan 2014)
(S. Vishnu, 11 Nov 2018 )
2.1.1 Glass fibre reinforced gypsum
GFRG panels are currently manufactured with
a thickness of 124 mm, a length of 12m and a
top of 3m. (Eldhose M Manjummekudiyil,
March 2015)Although its important
application is in the construction of wall, it
could additionally be used in ground, and roof
slabs in mixture with the bolstered concrete.
The panel includes cavities that can be packed
with concrete and reinforced with steel bars to Figure 1 load carrying capacity of GFRG panels(S.
provide electricity and ductility. The panels can Vishnu, 11 Nov 2018 )
be unfilled and partly filled or fully full of
reinforced concrete. (S. Vishnu, 11 Nov 2018 )
2.1.3 Project Details about GFRG
The principle distinction among dewatered A storey building in Kochi is chosen, carried out
and non-dewatered GRC is the difference in by using a Kerala based enterprise Sheghram
density and it has effects. First of all, even Nirman Pt. Ltd. the construction approaches
though the fibre content by way of weight is and strategies are determined, that are getting
the identical and higher density of the used for GFRG
dewatered board gives a higher fibre extent
fraction giving better strengths. Secondly, the
dewatered board has higher compaction and
reduced porosity, which offers higher
fibre/matrix bond electricity. (S. Vishnu, 11
Nov 2018 )
2.1.2 An overview of GFRG wall panel systems
Glass fibre reinforced gypsum, abbreviated as
GFRG, which is better referred to as rapid wall
panel’s construction, the complete cost and building. A detailed case study of contrast
estimation of constructing, applicable among the traditional constructing and GFRG
techniques used for panel manufacturing, panel constructing in the most important
analysis, and duration of the each detail of

3
factors is made.. (Why Build Modular, 10 Oct
2013)
. Cost
2. Time
3. Quality
4. Quantity
B. Type of Building: two Storey Building
C. Type of Construction: Rapid wall
construction with GFRG panels
D. Area: 1500 Sq.ft
(Eldhose M Manjummekudiyil, March 2015)
2.1.4 Applications of GFRG
GFRG building panels are generally used in the
following ways.
1. As load bearing walls in buildings, to resist
the gravity load.
2. As partition or infill walls in multi-storeyed
framed RC structures.
3. as compound walls in combination with
minimum quantity of concrete.
4. As shear walls, resist both gravity load and
lateral load from earthquakes and wind as
walls of lift well and parapet walls.
5. As floor slabs / roof slabs, pitched roof slabs
and staircase waist slabs and mid-landing
slabs.
2.1.5 ADVANTAGES OF GFRG
1. High speed of construction.
2. More carpet area for the same built-up area-
thickness of wall panels is only 124mm.
3. Less embodied energy and carbon footprint
has significant reduction in use of steel,
cement, sand, and water.
4. Less cost of construction and savings in
materials and no cement plastering.
2
5. Less building weight, thereby reduction in
design for seismic forces and savings in
foundation in multi-storeyed buildings.
6. 8 to 10 storied buildings can be designed
using GFRG panels and without the need of
conventional RC beams and columns.
7. Very good finishes of GFRG buildings: use of
factory made panels for all the walls, floors,
and staircases.
8. Less CO2 is emitted compared to other
conventional building materials.
9. Better thermal comfort inside GFRG building
than conventional buildings.
10. Since gypsum is a hard material, there is no
creep in the GFRG panel, so it is major asset of
this type of construction.
11. In this Rapid wall system, there is no
volume change even at high temperature.
12. The movement of moisture through
concrete structures is dampness. There is no
dampness problem in GFRG panel wall system.
13. The durability of this rapid wall system is
same as the RCC construction.
(Eldhose M Manjummekudiyil, March 2015)
2.1.6 Disadvantages of GFRG
1. You do need some expertise in order to
make a house using this technology. The
handing, fixing and equipment required for
these panels is different from conventional
style. Although it is not very difficult to learn,
the right techniques and it will eventually take
time for becoming and industry trend (Musa,
13 July 2016)
2. The Panels are customized according to the
design and drawings of your house when
manufactured. Unfortunately, you cannot
make many changes during the fixing stage.
Hence planning is important. In addition, the
doors, windows and other openings are made
by cutting through the panels, hence the
planning for placing doors and windows need
to be extensive. (Eldhose M Manjummekudiyil,
March 2015)
3. In India, if you are looking to do a
construction in a normal populated area, it is
very likely that your plot is already surrounded
by built house. The GFRG technique needs
empty spaces around the plot so that cranes
can be placed while fixing panels. In addition,
the panels need special care while storing
them and need more space as compared to
cement/blocks. These two factors make it
difficult for a full-scale implementation in India
Empty space to store and move Panels is
needed. (J)
4. The fact that panels are specifically made
for a design and is transported from factory,
the price of each type of panel goes done
significantly only when used on a large scale.
Comparatively you can save 25–30% compared
to that of conventional building method and
more if used on large scale.
(Eldhose M Manjummekudiyil, March 2015)
2.1.7 Conclusion about gypsum
From this, we finish that conventional buildings
are extra high-priced when as compared to
panel gadget. The panels has properly
existence span as identical as concrete
systems. Nowadays using panels for creation is
evolving regularly. Still most people aren't
used to this form of creation practices for
residential homes. From this, able to deliver
some attention approximately the
construction of panel systems approximately
the price, time control, useful resource
allocation and exceptional and amount of
GFRG. (A, 1 Mar 2011)
GFRG can be efficaciously used for the whole
superstructure of buildings, such as all walls,
slabs, staircases, parapets, and many others.
This constructing system has many benefits
over traditional buildings. GFRG buildings have
the ability to satisfy the challenges of
presenting fast cheap mass housing. This is an
green and sustainable constructing device,
which uses recycled business waste gypsum or
natural gypsum and minimising using cement,
steel, sand, water and labour enter. This
technology is now gaining reputation in India
and all over other Asian nations. (E, 11 Jan
2011)
3
Literature review on steel
This is the maximum seen shape of creation for
steel buildings. it is so named for the reason
that the profile of the metallic beam appear to
be a letter "I", solid out of steel like a railroad
(only tons bigger). This tool is likewise known
as "inflexible frame" or "pink iron" metallic
building. A metal main body truss is the help
for the constructing. Each truss includes four
sections: sidewall sections and roof sections.
After assembly on the ground, every solid
metallic "I" beam truss is raised after which
added down (or bolted) to the concrete basis.
An everyday spacing among trusses is usually
25-30 ft (6-10 meters). (Pande, 5 May 2016)
2.2.1 Advantages of steel i beam buildings
* Common type of building system, generally
readily available.
* A common building system to most in the
construction/contracting/steel building
business.
* Quick assembly and erection
* Wide variety of colours available
* Few width limitations, that is, you can do
huge "monster" type buildings with clear span
widths of 100 to 200+ feet (30-60 meters).
* Can be cost effective
* Can accommodate higher load requirements
* Generally no interior support posts or
columns needed.
* Low roof slope makes the profile less
obstructive
* Does not need a slab floor, can be installed
on foundation piers (for example, a riding ring
that would not have a interior concrete slab
floor) (E, 11 Jan 2011)
2.2.2 Disadvantages
* Usually limited to a simple "box" shape with
little or no roof pitch (slope) or unique
configurations beyond a square or rectangle,
and usually with no exterior options other than
steel sheeting (usually what we see around.)
* Usually requires a crane or heavy apparatus,
and sometimes on-site welding, depending on
the size of the building and the degree of pre-
engineering done by the builder.
* Some systems need that insulation be done
only at the time the building is erected. If
fiberglass bat insulation is used (this is the
most common method) then some of R-value
of the insulation is lost at all the compression
points since the fiberglass insulation is
sandwiched between the trusses and the
outside sheeting.
* Some steel I-beam building systems aren't
really designed for the "do-it-yourself" market
(especially large buildings), but are presented
as such
* May be required to pre-drill all the holes in
the exterior steel sheeting for the attachment
of the steel panels to the side girts and roof
purlins
* Many are sold through broker (which is
perfectly OK -- just make sure you know who
you are dealing with and exactly what you are
buying.) (E, 11 Jan 2011)

Figure 2 Forces experienced by structures(Pande, 5 May 2016)

Figure 3 Gravity and wind loads taken by steel structures (Pande, 5 May 2016)

4
2.3 Literature review on ALC panels
ALC Panel – Autoclaved lightweight Concrete
Panel is the following technology flexible
inexperienced constructing material of desire
for constructing community, which comes with
a number of Technical and useful blessings that
trigger a love for this cloth among the creation
specialists and workers. (W) The fabric is
appropriate and proved to be a tremendous
constructing fabric for structures consisting of
residential, commercial, and business and
warehouse buildings, inns, faculties and
hospitals, and so on. In any terrain and all
climatic situations. it is used for each outside
and internal partitions, load bearing and non-
load bearing partitions, basement walls, infill
partitions to framed structures, celebration
partitions, fire break partitions, etc. It’s also
used as a precast ground/ decking / roof. (E, 11
Jan 2011)
ALC Panel Product kinds: ALC, unlike traditional
concrete masonry units (“CMU”), is a solid
panel /cloth gadget with integrated insulation
and structural components, and is to be had in
a selection of products that can be utilized in
each load and non-load-bearing programs. (E,
11 Jan 2011) complete load bearing
applications, however, are confined to low-
upward thrust creation, although cladding and
large panels are to be had to take advantage of
ALC’s insulate, fireplace proofing, and other
advantages on mid- and excessive-upward
thrust initiatives. Moreover, the big wall,
ground, and roof panels, measuring up to ten
feet lengthy, 2 toes extensive, and in diverse
1
thicknesses, are also utilized in load-bearing
capacities and are commonplace in
commercial and industrial applications. ALC
Panels, additionally known as “units” are
stacked the use of skinny-set mortar, as
opposed to the conventional cement-based
mortar used in CMU construction. (E, 11 Jan
2011)
2.3.1 ALC Panels
Due to ALC’s layout flexibility and mixed
structural and insulation additives, a whole
shape can be constructed the usage of the only
fabric. outside surfaces can be finished with
skim coat, conventional veneers or siding,
while interior partitions may be skim coated,
painted, or left unfinished, similarly to
conventional sheet rock finishes. (E, 11 Jan
2011)
Further, ALC is easy to use and can be cut and
manipulated with ordinary wooden-working
tools. ALC panels are made With cement, lime,
Silica Sand as raw materials, adopting -manner
and welded metallic reinforcement mesh
(reinforcing bar) processed through special
anti-rust liquid, produced in high temperature,
high stress and steam curing, it’s a type of
porous silicate plate of high performance, and
has many incomparable performances of good
fire-resistance, fire prevention, sound
insulation, heat insulation, thermal insulation
and so forth.
(DLC Limited site) (Design in Modular
Construction, 6 Mar 2017)
 `
Figure 4 ALC panels ready for transportation in plant in Chennai (DLC Limited site) (Eldhose M
Manjummekudiyil, March 2015)
2.3.2 Advantages of steel ALC panels
The usage of the ALC, the construction work
may be elevated to obtain a more quantity of
time performance. By using the proper tools
the construction can be mechanized to growth
the labour efficiency and faster creation.
(Eldhose M Manjummekudiyil, March 2015)
A higher hearth score of three-four hours can
be done for the buildings constructed using
ALC. (The R cost is 1.2 in keeping with inch and
as a result a four inch or 100mm thick ALC
Panel wall could gain an R fee of four. Eight
whereas the identical 4inch Concrete wall has
an R value of simplest 2. which results in an
ideal thermal insulation, that is 6 to 10 times
better than normal concrete. This enables
keep on the strength fee notably. (Ajay Patre
and Laxmikant Vairagade, 2014)
Forty-forty eight dB of sounds are filtered by
means of the ALC panels, which makes it
certainly acoustic. Perfect for resorts,
hospitals, classified ads and multifamily.
The lightweight nature of this product helps
reduce the dead load of the building
considerably. The density of this material is
1/4th of Concrete.
No Air Cracks inside the completed homes,
which reduces the general protection costs for
the constructing in the long run. (Eldhose M
Manjummekudiyil, March 2015)The products
are tested and authorized through the
renowned laboratories like SGS, TUV, and
SETSCO….and so on, which isn't the case in the
traditional constructing fabric. (Ajay Patre and
Laxmikant Vairagade, 2014)
Accelerated comfort and capability
Massive size of the panels assist do away the
construction with much less quantity of joints.
Due to the mild weight nature, much less
manpower and their attempt is required for
construction. (Eldhose M Manjummekudiyil,
March 2015)
True Workability – approach operating on
conduits and fixing service lines etc becomes
easier with this product.
The reinforcement with Galvanized steel mesh
gives additional power to the panels
Long sturdiness: proof against rot or pest, and
this material has been in use for over eighty
years (Eldhose M Manjummekudiyil, March
2015)
As this cloth has a high load-bearing electricity
– it becomes the selection for all sort of
partitions: external and internal, load bearing
and non-load-bearing, basement, and fireplace
ruin walls … and many others. (Ajay Patre and
Laxmikant Vairagade, 2014)
1
This is an environmental pleasant constructing of walls: outside and internal, load bearing and
material as it's miles non-poisonous. The non-load-bearing, basement, and fire break
wastage is minimal and negligible and the walls … and so on.
whole fabric is reusable and recyclable.
(Ajay Patre and Laxmikant Vairagade, 2014)
As this fabric has a excessive load-bearing
strength – it becomes the selection for all kind
and my personal observation I came to a
METHODOLOGY concluded the study.
The method I followed during this
Overview:
process is explained in this chapter. Firstly I
started with getting a brief idea on how steel 1. Secondary data collection
and gypsum/ALC structures are designed,  Literature case study about
fabricated and erected, and also various steel and gypsum residential
methods in constructing these structure. This building.
study was to build a base knowledge about my
 Finding how does the steel
topic so that all his homework will help me for
and gypsum work as a major
further study and interviews. This base study
construction material and its
was done from reading books, eBooks and
advantages and
construction videos on internet. The second
stage is doing case studies, in which literature disadvantages over
case studies comes first, I opted to finish the conventional method.
literature case studies first because all these 2. Primary data collection
work helped me to build a basic knowledge on  Questionnaire preparation
the construction techniques of steel from the inferences of
structures, which later helped me for easy literature review.
communication with designers and labours.  Interactive section with
After finishing the literature case studies contractors and engineers.
comes the live case studies. For that, first I  Live case studies of selected
identified the buildings which came under my
on both conventional and
scope and shortlisted it into three buildings. A
prefabricated method.
questionnaire was prepared for both the
 Online interaction with
designers and the occupants for the structure
which will ease the data collection. And by company managers of
schematically analysing and comparing the particular companies and
data collected from the designers, occupants practicing engineers.
 Interactions with occupants
of these case studies.

2
Table 2 Methodology
Data sources and data types pre-fabricated in which one
is a renovation project and
Secondary data collection
two case study for
 Literature cases studies
conventional method
1) Residence for
 One literature case
Mr.Rajagopalan
study is done on
Namboothiripad @
gypsum and steel
Guruvayoor
residence.
2) Residence for
SHUNYA, Sec-107,
Mr.sajeevan at
NOIDA
Thrissur
 SHUNYA well
3) Residence for Mr.shaji
maintained energy
at Perinjanam ,Thrissur
efficient building with
(Renovation )
structure made of
4) THE HOUSE OF NIVRITI
steel and internal and
THRISSUR(Convention
external partitions
al method )
with gypsum
5) BREEZE HOUSE
ALAPUZHA
Primary data collection
(Conventional method
 Questionnaire preparation )
from the inferences of
literature review and  Interactive section with
literature case studies. contractors and engineers
and architect of the
 Live case studies. selected projects.

 Five live case studies were - Conducted

done, three case study for Interview with two
contractors in

1
 Kerala with more particular
than 20 years of products.
experience, with - The primary data
two engineers and was collected for
one young the research is
architect in Kerala. from interviews
- Conducted with to contractors
telephonic from Trissur who
interview with a have more than 20
managing yrs. of experience
directors and and two young
engineers of the engineers.

Table 3 Data sources and data types

Data sources and Data types
 From interviews with to contractors from Thrissur who have
more than 20 yrs. of experience and two young engineers .

 Literature review
Secondary data
collection  CRITERIA FOR SELECTION OF PREFAB IN INDIA- BY
P.K.ADHLAKHA & H.C.PURI

 PREFABRICATION IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: A CASE STUDY

OF INDIA, by Ryan E. Smith

 Literature case studies

 SHUNYA, Sec-107, NOIDA

 Questionnaire preparation
-For the interactive section with architects and structural
engineers and contractors.
-Conducted telephonic interview with managing directors and
engineers of the particular products.
 Live case studies

 Residence for Mr.Rajagopalan Namboothiripad @ Guruvayoor

 Residence for Mr.sajeevan at Manjeri

Primary data
collection  Residence for Mr.shaji at Perinjanam ,Thrissur (Renovation )

 THE HOUSE OF NIVRITI THRISSUR(Conventional method )

2
  BREEZE HOUSE ALAPUZHA (Conventional method )

 Interactive section
-with young architects in Kerala, with two young engineers in
Kerala and two contractors.

RESULT
Data collection
CASE STUDY– LITERATURE
 SHUNYA, Sec-107, NOIDA

Figure 5 Front view from the courtyard (P, 2017)

financial savings in electric energy in
comparison to a conventional building of the
SHUNYA is a 0 power prefab residence by
same climatic area; nearly forty% financial
means of the organization 3C. Its miles an
savings in electric energy is thru passive power
internet-0 power domestic is that which works
conservation strategies. It has additionally
on the principle of making use of maximum
included a courtyard that serves as a number
renewable strength, and is independent of any
one source of (electricity) mild and herbal
strength grid, and preserves the energy that it
ventilation and has sun shades with louvers
consumes. (P, 2017)
designed optimally for summer and wintry
SHUNYA is broadly speaking constructed with weather climate. (P, 2017)
old refurbished substances like antique
shipment packing containers, antique metallic
sections, GFRG panels packaged timber, and
vintage furniture. It achieves extra than 70%

2
Figure 6 Concept behind the design (W) (A, 1 Mar 2011)

It is constructed using four cargo containers, which are welded and bolted to each other .The doors,
windows have been cut through these containers.

Figure 7 The truss is covered with angled louvers, which let in ample amount of light and let us hot air
out . (P, 2017)
MATERIALS USED 3.2.2 Outcomes
 Local materials used including locally Prefabrication era has no longer transferred as
available materials and maximum without problems whilst as compared with
different technologies because it's miles a
materials are reused.
manufacturing technology or information
 steel and wood and GFRG Panels as primarily based and not a intake era or product
main materials primarily based. Technology switch of
 columns prefabrication isn't always as pertinent to
 frame architects as it is far to producers of
 truss constructing products, however we're
caretakers of way of life inside the AEC
 finishing material industry. in many cases, have been requested
• WOOD to help with among the transfers that are
happening by using way of worldwide exercise
 interior walls
or running for multi-countrywide companies
 finishing material which are generating prefabricated additives
 beams and complete buildings for India and
 GFRG Panels are used as main material elsewhere. Even though transfers will retain to
for partition of walls occur, especially in the place of prefabrication
in building, we need to be well aware of how
the selections of U.S. and western architects
may also have a62effect on the moral

2
dilemmas regarding less evolved international
locations’ development and subculture.
the usage of prefab can help to achieve
outcomes for the society’s immediately needs
due to the fact the fast changing surroundings,
commercial enterprise, economics,
Table 4 Comparison between prefabricated (GFRG) and conventional building
Materials/items Prefabricated building
industrialization, residential desires,
settlements and lots of different factors of
transportation like bridges, towers, railways
calls for fast settlement and requirement for
buildings, places of work and industries, for
this reason prefabrication is the solution for
immediate and time saving production
Conventional
building

Cement 16 tons 32.55 tons

Steel 1800 kg 2779 kg

Sand 20 cum 83.87 cum

Granite 38 cum 52.46 cum

Brick - 57200

GFRG panel 500 sum

Water 50000 liter 200000 liter

Labour 389 man days 1200 man days

Construction time 21 days 120 days

Wt. of superstructure 170 tons 490 ton

Construction cost

Rs. 13.25 lakhs 18.27 lakhs

Table 5 Comparison of construction time

S. No Item of work RCC (in days) GFRG(In
days)
1 EARTH WORK EXCAVATION 2-4 2-4
2 PCC 2-3 2-3

3 BRICK WORK IN FOUNDATION 5-7 5-7

2
 4 DPC
5 COLOUMN
6 WALL
7 BEAMS
8 LINTEL /SUNSHADE
9 SLAB
10 PLASTERING
11 WHITE WASH
12 COLOUR WASH
13 FLOORING
TOTAL DURATION
(Prefabrication in Developing Countries: A Case Study of India)
The idea is to study the following aspects in
steel and gypsum residential buildings and
compare it with the conventional residential
buildings, keeping the following areas as key
aspects.
• Space optimization. – Land values are
increasing at alarming rates each day in every
city undergoing the process of development
and Kerala is no exception. Thus in this present
scenario, optimization of whatever little space
available is of clear importance to save space,
money as well as resources. This can be
achieved in various ways like; inducing design
strategies by minimalizing waste of space in
the design or even by thoughtful use of
materials/ finishes/ furniture etc. In this time
of decreasing land availability and the
increasing demand for it, space optimization is
now an essential tool for designing in whatever
limited spaces available. A conventional
method of construction may not always fulfil
the space requirements of the users/
designers, which demands for newer
technologies/ materials/ installations that can
withstand the crisis of space limitation.
• Aesthetics and Visual impacts –
Although the visual interests can vary from
2
2-4 2-4
9-10 -
10-15 2-4
15-18 -
4-5 2-3
28 14
10-12 --
3-4 -
2-3 2-3
3 3
98-120 35-45
person to person , as to what they prefer to see
through their eyes, the general finish of the
type of construction matters; whether it is neat
, eye pleasing, availability of colours and
textures etc.
• Flexibility and use of space - A same
space can be interpreted/ used in different
ways, depending on its users. The intended
use, at the time of designing/construction, of a
particular space can change over the years
based on user demands, especially in today’s
fast growing era. Thus it is important for spaces
to be open to changes over time or anytime in
future. Construction techniques supporting
these provision of future changes, by reducing
the demolition need / ease in installation etc.,
are recommended in today’s construction by
many designers as well as clients.
CASE STUDY – LIVE
1. Preparing questionnaires
Individual questionnaires were prepared for
architects / designers and occupants. case
studies will be done , on from pre-fabricated
building and other from conventional building
typology which will help me to compare the
typologies in same locality and can come to a
better result. Two type of questionnaires are
prepared for the designer. One is normal
interview questions and the other is for them
to rate, this will ease in reviewing the results
too.
4. Can you please explain the quality of
spaces in this residence?
5. How did using of steel & ALC helped you in
optimisation of space?

Occupants will be having the ratting and yes or
no questions. Their opinion for the same
questions is also noted.
QUESTIONS FOR DESIGNER.
1. Can you give a brief idea on the project?
2. Why did you choose steel & ALC over
conventional RCC framed structure?
3. What are the advantages of these
materials over the conventional method?
6. How did using these materials affect the
elevation or aesthetics of the building?
7. How does the use of these materials affect
the flexibility in use of space?
8. Would you choose again for further of
your projects?
9. Can you please explain about the usability
and about client satisfaction?

DESIGNER

QUESTIONS
1. Did the use of steel help you in space
optimisation?
2. How would you rate the use of steel and
ALC in achieving the visual impact of your
building in others?

3. How would you rate the flexibility of use

of space you have created?
4.Advantage over conventional method

5. usability and client satisfaction

6. Quality of spaces provided

7. overall aesthetics of residence

*Noted opinion if any.

2
QUESTIONS FOR OCCUPANT/ USER.
Table 6: Rating Table / user
1. User 1

2. User 2

3. User 3

NO:
1 2 3
QUESTIONS
1. How will you rate the quality of
space of this building in 5 ?

2. How will you rate the building in

terms of aesthetics and visual
impact?

3. Have you felt any discomfort in

terms of discomfort and flexibility
of use of space?

4. Have you felt any kind of

discomfort because of the material
used for construction?

5. Would you recommend this

construction method and
technology to others?

6. What is the main objective for

choosing the particular
construction?

Electing appropriate buildings for
case study
By this reserch I am aiming to study and
analyse the conceptual design factors and
comparing the prefabricated residential
building with the conventional building of steel
and ALC structures in kerala , and unerstand
how these materials can solve the present
problems in residential building construction .
As I am only looking to 3 factors that influence
the conceptual design which is space
optimisation, aesthetics and visual impact and
flexibility of use of space, and for comparing
the building I hav shortlisted 2 buildings which
is in thrissur and which has all three factors
satisfied.
4.3.1 Prefabricated residential building
1) Residence for Mr.Rajagopalan
Namboothiripad at Guruvayoor
2) Residence for Mr.sajeevan at Manjeri

2
 3) Residence for Mr.shaji at Perinjanam
,Thrissur (Renovation )

4.2.2 Data collected from case studies.

1) RESIDENCE FOR MR.RAJAGOPALAN NAMBOOTHIRIPAD @ GURUVAYOOR

Figure 8 Residence for Mr.Rajagopalan Namboothiripad

(PHOTO TAKEN DURING SITE VISIT)

DESIGNER/ BUILDER Ans: This was the first prefabricated

residential building with ALC and Steel, in
Er.Pradeep Nair (GREEN LIFESTYLE CREATOR
Kerala. So my objective was to make it as
P.LTD CHENNAI )
unique as possible in a budget that the owner
OCCUPANTS would take. As it was the first residence in
Kerala we had to face many queries and ensure
1. Mr.Rajagopalan Namboothiripad (Owner) clarity of the methods to be followed, before
2. Mrs.Reeja Rajagopalan (wife) actually starting the construction. But despite
those challenges, we were able to successfully
3. Rajeev (son) complete the project within the intended
schedule.

Q2. Why did you choose steel ALC over

Interview with designer (Pradeep Nair)
conventional RCC framed structure?
Q1. Can you give a brief idea on the Ans: Ours is an established company in
project? India, which mainly focused on the

2
construction of commercial buildings with
steel gypsum and ALC. The design
requirements of this project and its space
availability, lead me to choosing steel gypsum
and ALC type of construction. Also,
prefabricated construction is fully fledged in
the commercial sector of Kerala and not so
much in the residential sector, so I consider
this project as a stepping stone for more
designers and users to opt for alternate
practices rather than sticking on to the
conventional methods of construction anytime
and anywhere.
Q3. Did using steel and ALC help you in
optimisation of space?
Ans: In conventional method, the wall
sizes are normally 25 cm thick while using steel
and ALC it is only 15 cm thick, thus overall there
will be a considerable increase in usable space
of the building. Also in prefabricated
structures, the columns used are less and this
too helps in optimising the space available.
Q4. How did using these materials affect
the elevation or aesthetics of the building?
Ans: Aesthetics is a subjective matter
and there is no “correct” way of presenting it.
In this design steel and ALC have given
the external façade a simple look without
much experimentation or ornamentation
which satisfies the client as well. In general the
use steel and ALC may bring in a touch of
typicality in terms of visual appearance, which
could be corrected through the choice of
colours or textures used for finishes.
Q5. How does the use of these affect the
flexibility in use of space?
Ans: In steel & ALC construction the
walls are installed as panels and can be
removed or demolished easily compared to
conventional methods of construction. So a
space can be reinterpreted in the future years
by making slight alterations in the structure
without creating much havoc or structural
instability. Also, there are very minimal
2
amount of columns and beams running inside
the residence. So the flexibility of use of space
is ensured to a great extent.
Q6. Would you choose these
construction again for further of your projects?
Ans: Sure yeah, if the site conditions
and the project requirements are
favourable. But since transportation of
prefabricated structures to the site are
involved the budget controlling was a
problem. In my experience for a single
dwelling house, this type of construction is a
little bit expensive. It is more suitable for
large scale projects. Also the time of
construction and completion of the project
was very less compared to conventional
methods of construction.
Q7. Are there any long term goals for using
steel & ALC construction?
Ans: Changing the use of space over time is a
challenge that needs to be addressed in
today’s designs and this type of construction
provides room for future alterations. In steel
& ALC construction the walls are installed as
panels and can be removed or demolished
easily compared to conventional methods of
construction. So a space can be
reinterpreted in the future years by making
slight alterations in the structure without
creating much havoc or structural instability.
Q.8. Do you feel using steel & ALC helped in
considerably reducing the overall cost of
construction?
Ans: The wall sizes in this type of construction
are just 15 cm and thus there will be a
considerable amount of reduction in the
materials required for construction, compared
to conventional methods. That being said,
while considering the overall picture there isn’t
much of a difference in cost as the
transportation and installation charges adds
up as extra in the end. Thus for large scale
projects where a bulk amount of materials can
be reduced, this type of construction is cost
effective, but not so much for small scale
residential projects.
 Q.9. Does the use of Steel & ALC influenced
the design of the building, during the primary
design stages?
Ans: Steel & ALC type of construction was
fixed in the primary stages of design itself.
This helped in creating more room for usable
spaces while keeping the total floor area
intact. Thus helping in reducing the waste of
spaces and crating more spacious interiors.
Q.10.Are there any challenges/limitations
you faced during the construction time?
Figure 9 Conventional stair (interior )
PHOTO TAKEN DURING SITE VISIT
Figure 10 Residence for Mr.Rajagopalan Namboothiripad (interior )PHOTO TAKEN DURING SITE VISIT
3
Ans: The materials and prefabricated
units used in this project are from our industry
in Chennai, so they had to be transported to
the site in Kerala, which was one of the major
challenges faced in the project. Also reducing
the budget cost low was a big challenge for this
scale of a building. In this project, one thing
that could have been bettered are the details
in the finishes which would have improved the
overall aesthetics of the building.
Figure 11Modular kitchen
PHOTO TAKEN DURING SITE VISIT
Table 6 RATING TABLE (DESIGNER)
Er.Pradeep Nair (GREEN LIFESTYLE CREATOR P.LTD CHENNAI )

DESIGNER

QUESTIONS

1. Did the use of steel help you in space 3

optimisation?

2. How would you rate the use of steel and ALC 4

in achieving the visual impact of your building
in others?

3. How would you rate the flexibility of use of 4

space you have created?

4.Advantage over conventional method 4

5. usability and client satisfaction 5

2
 6. Quality of spaces provided 3

7. overall aesthetics of residence 3

* The detail is poor, some of the design elements have very less perfection. I propably should
have took the factor perfection more seriously.

Table 7 RATING TABLE (OCCUPANTS/ USERS)

Occupants

1. Mr.Rajagopalan Namboothiripad (Owner)

2. Mrs.Reeja Rajagopalan (wife)

3. Rajeev (son)

NO:
1 2 3
QUESTIONS
1. How will you rate the quality of 3 3 2
space of this building in 5 ?

2. How will you rate the building in 3 3 2

terms of aesthetics and visual
impact?

3. Have you felt any discomfort in NO NO NO

terms of discomfort and flexibility
of use of space?

4. Have you felt any kind of YES YES YES

discomfort because of the material *bescause of the
used for construction? using of steel tress
in first floor ,
feeling hot in first
floor
5. Would you recommend this YES YES NO
construction method and
technology to others?

6. What is the main objective for Cost effective and Cost effective
choosing the particular faster construction and faster
construction? time construction
time

3
*No Air condition are used , although there is no problem in ground floor ,but feeling hot in first floor
because of the using of trussed roof. More compromises are done in the filed Aesthetics.

2) RESIDENCE FOR MR.SAJEEVAN AT MANJERI

Figure 12 On site execution of precast steel and columns

PHOTO TAKEN DURING SITE VISIT

Figure 13At the stage of structure finishing * external walls are made of concrete blocks and internal
pration with gypsum boards.(Photo taken during site visit)
DESIGNER/ BUILDER/ ENGINEER 1. Mr. Sajeevan (Owner)
Er. Anand P( MECHANICAL ) 2. Mrs.Seema (wife)
Er.Najeeb ( CIVIL ) 3. sooryanath (son)
An engineering consortium Manjeri
OCCUPANTS

4
 Interview with designer
Q1. Can you give a brief idea on the
project?
Ans: Actually the project is a budgeted
home .so we decide to use these prefabricated
materials as main material. Were we can
reduce so much of cost?
Q2. Why did you choose steel ALC over
conventional RCC framed structure?
Ans: As the client wanted to finish the
project as fast as possible. And also steel can
load more weight than that of concrete for
large scale.
Q3. Did using steel and gypsum help you
in optimisation of space?
Ans: Actually we are used gypsum panels
for internal walls and concrete blocks for the
external walls. Internals walls have less
thickness compared with the normal brick
walls so maximum carpet area can be utilized.
Q4. How did using these materials affect
the elevation or aesthetics of the building?
Ans: Actually we are using concrete
blocks for the external walls. so the elevation
can be designed as normal as conventional
method
Q5. How does the use of these affect the
flexibility in use of space?
Ans: all the structure elements are made
from our factory and only site level execution
is done from site and which take only 2 days for
the execution in site. Each columns and beams
are individual blocks and each can be easily
dismantled
Table 8 RATING TABLE (DESIGNER)
DESIGNER/ BUILDER/ ENGINEER
Er. Anand P( MECHANICAL )
Er.Najeeb ( CIVIL )
An engineering consortium Manjeri
2
Q6. Would you choose these
construction again for further of your projects?
Ans: Sure yeah, we are promoting this
method to other areas also. As cost of
materials are increasing day by day this will
be a good method for people whose looking
into budgeted homes.
Q7. Are there any long term goals for using
steel & gypsum construction?
Ans: the renovation in future years will be
more easy in this method because each walls
and columns are modules and con easily
modified . Also at time of renovation the
waste will be less compared to the
conventional method
.
Q.8. Do you feel using steel & gypsum helped
in considerably reducing the overall cost of
construction?
Ans: almost 5 lacks we saved in the structural
stage when comparing with conventional
method. When coming to finishing stage it is
dependable accordingly to the products we are
using.
Q.9. Does the use of Steel & gypsum
influenced the design of the building, during
the primary design stages?
Ans: No. At first stage discussion itself we are
fixed with this method.
Q.10.Are there any challenges/limitations
you faced during the construction time?
Ans: security was the main concern for
the client so we are used concrete blocks for
the external walls.
 DESIGNER

QUESTIONS

1. Did the use of steel help you in space 4

optimisation?

2. How would you rate the use of steel and 4

gypsum in achieving the visual impact of
your building in others?

3. How would you rate the flexibility of use of 4

space you have created?

4.Advantage over conventional method 4

5. usability and client satisfaction 5

6. Quality of spaces provided 3

7. overall aesthetics of residence 3

Table 9 RATING TABLE (DESIGNER)

OCCUPANTS

1. Mr. Sajeevan (Owner)

2. Mrs.Seema (wife)

3. sooryanath (son

NO:

1 2 3

QUESTIONS

1. How will you rate the quality 5 5 4

of space of this building in 5 ?

2
 2. How will you rate the 4 4 3
building in terms of aesthetics
and visual impact?

3. Have you felt any discomfort NO NO NO

in terms of discomfort and
flexibility of use of space?

4. Have you felt any kind of NO NO NO

discomfort because of the
material used for
construction?

5. Would you recommend this YES YES NO

construction method and
technology to others?

6. What is the main objective We wanted to

for choosing the particular complete the
construction? project as fast as
possible

3) RESIDENCE FOR MR.SHAJI AT PERINJANAM

PREFABRICATED RESIDENTIAL BUILDING/ RENOVATION

Figure 14On site execution of precast steel and columns

PHOTO TAKEN DURING SITE VISIT
Table 10 RATING TABLE (DESIGNER)
BUILDER/ ENGINEER

3
Er. Jos Kattukkaran Er.Najeeb ( CIVIL )

Kattukkaran Architectural Solutions Thrissur

DESIGNER

QUESTIONS

1. Did the use of steel help you in space 4

optimisation?

2. How would you rate the use of steel and 4

gypsum in achieving the visual impact of
your building in others?

3. How would you rate the flexibility of use 4

of space you have created?

4.Advantage over conventional method 4

5. usability and client satisfaction 5

6. Quality of spaces provided 4

7. overall aesthetics of residence 4

Table 11 RATING TABLE (OCCUPANTS/ USERS)

OCCUPANTS

1. Mr. Shaji (Owner)

2. Mrs.Mini (wife)

NO:

1 2

QUESTIONS

1. How will you rate the quality 4 4

of space of this building in 5 ?

2. How will you rate the 4 4

building in terms of aesthetics
and visual impact?

4
 3. Have you felt any discomfort NO NO
in terms of discomfort and
flexibility of use of space?

4. Have you felt any kind of NO NO

discomfort because of the
material used for
construction?

5. Would you recommend this YES YES

construction method and
technology to others?

6. What is the main objective As we are

for choosing the particular renovating the old
construction? house we have
concern about the
structural stability

4.3.2 Conventional residential building

 1) Rsidence for Mr.Sujith at Thrissur

 2) Rsidence for Mr.Shyne at Alappuzha

4.3.2 Data collected from case studies.

1) Rsidence for Mr.Sujith at Thrissur

Figure 15 Residence for Mr.Sujith @ Arimboor , Thrissur

Architect Ar. Manuraj CR (i2a Architects Studio)

5
Occupants
1. Mr.Venu (Owner)
2. Mrs.Hema (wife)
3. Mr.Sujith ( son)
Interview with designer (Ar. Manuraj
CR)
Q1. Can you give a brief idea on the
project?
Ans: “HOUSE OF NIVRITI” means the house of
bliss, which was designed to provide joy and
happiness for its residents. The main concept
was to create a connection between the
building and nature .So it is designed in such a
way that it responds to the aspects of site
context and climate.. The abundance of natural
light inside & proper ventilation brings in fresh
flow of air and enhance living experience of the
habitat. The design was approached to
incorporate traditional aspects as much as
possible, as per the client’s requirements.
Q2. Why did you choose conventional RCC
framed structure?
Ans: The design was an attempt to bring in
maximum traditional elements possible, as
per the client’s requirements. Thus
conventional RCC structure was the best
option which would easily blend in with the
building’s concepts. Any other alternative
ways like prefabricated structures would’ve
been a misfit to the theme of design.
Q3. How did this affect the optimisation of
space inside the house?
Ans: All the walls are load bearing walls and
hence are 25 cm thick. There were
challenges while designing certain spaces
inside the house, to increase the usable
space. But by designing spaces linked to one
another, without completely dividing them
with a wall, openness was achieved in the
design.
Q4. How did using this conventional method
affect the elevation or aesthetics of the
building?
2
Ans: The concept of the building rooted back
to the traditional Kerala construction and the
conventional method of construction was
the ideal option for the project. The mixture
of exposed bricks and cement finished walls
in the exterior , together blended with the
traditional clay tiles on the roof pulled of a
rustic traditional look for the house.
Q5. Was flexibility in use of space considered
while designing the project?
Ans: As the walls are all load bearing, future
alterations or extensions in the design may
affect the structural stability of the building
and would be a great risk to do so. Only
adaptive reuses of space like the change in
interior furniture or partition walls may can
be made to make the spaces flexible.
Q6. Would you choose this approach again
for further of your projects?
Ans: It will depend on its locality context,
project requirements and its scale. For
constructing a normal residence in Kerala
context, conventional RCC framed structures
would be ideal, considering the
transportation and labour charges required
for other alternative methods like steel &
ALC construction.
Q7. Are there any long term goals for using
conventional method of construction?
Ans: The building will have a strong life
expectancy for many years and many
columns and RCC framed structures are used
in this conventional method of construction.
Although future building alterations would
be a difficult task as it can affect the
building’s structural stability.
Q.8. Has this method in any way helped in
considerably reducing the overall cost of
construction?
Ans: The project was completed within the
client’s targeted budget and no extra
expenses were made. Transportation
charges and other installation charges
associated with prefabricated type of
construction were reduced here, as most of
the construction materials and labour came
from nearby distance of the site.
 Q.9. Have this method affected the design of Q.10.Are there any challenges/limitations
the building, during primary design stages? you faced during the construction time?
Ans: During the design stages, increasing Ans: There weren’t any big challenges, but
usable spaces in the design with minimum preserving the existing vegetation of the site
wall partitions was a challenge, as the was an essential challenge which I was able
structural stability was to be taken care as to overcome successfully.
well. The spaces were designed keeping the
wall thickness 25 cm everywhere and was
able to successfully render the client’s
requirements.
Table 12 RATING TABLE (ARCHITECT)
ARCHITECT

Ar. Manuraj CR (i2a Architects Studio )

QUESTIONS DESIGNER

1. How you zoned residence to this small plot? 2

2. What about the space optimisation in this 3

project ?

3. How would you rate the flexibility of use of 3

space you have created?

4. Why don’t you recommend other methods? 2

Advantage over prefabricated method

5. usability and client satisfaction 4

6. Quality of spaces provided 4

7. overall aesthetics of residence 4

RATING TABLE (OCCUPANTS/ USERS)

OCCUPANTS

1. Mr.Venugopalan (Owner)

2. Mrs.Hema (wife)

3. Mr.Sujith (son)

3
Interview with users
Occupants
1. Mr.Venu (Owner)
2. Mrs.Hema (wife)
3. Mr.Sujith ( son)
Q1. Was there any demands from your side on
space optimisation while discussing with the
designer?
Ans: We wanted spaces that could enhance the
family bonding like in traditional buildings and
we are happy be the design of the house –
keeping the central courtyard connected to the
dining as the energy core of house.
Q2. Now that the project is complete, do you
feel your needs have been fulfilled in a
thoughtful way?
Ans: Absolutely. We wanted a house that
would help us connect with nature and the
Figure 16 Dining space of Residence for Mr.Sujith @ Arimboor , ThrissurTable 14:RATING TABLE
(OCCUPANTS/ USERS)
QUESTIONS USER1
1. How will you rate the quality of 4
space of this building in 5?
2
older generations, keeping the traditions intact
and that is exactly what we got.
Q3. Does this method of construction chosen
by the designer affect your desired aesthetical
quality of the building in any way?
Ans: The conventional style of construction
have added to the beauty of the traditional
themed elevation and design of the building,
which the designer has successfully rendered.
Q4. Do you feel the spaces of your home are
capable of adaptive reuse?
Ans: We haven’t planned of any future
alterations or extensions as of now, although if
needed an extra room could be added in the
present open terrace area of the house.
Q5. Are there any challenges/ discomfort you
face as dwellers?
Ans: we don’t face any challenges/ discomfort,
in fact we feel living a step closer to the nature
now.
USER2 USER3
5 5
 2. How will you rate the building in 5 5 5
terms of aesthetics and visual
impact?

3. Have you felt any discomfort in NO NO NO

terms of discomfort and flexibility
of use of space?

4. Have you felt any kind of NO* NO NO

discomfort because of the material
used for construction?

2) Rsidence for Mr.Shyne at Alappuzha

Figure 17 Residence for Mr.Shyne at Alappuzha

Architect

Ar. Arjun KJ (i2a Architects Studio )

Occupants

1. Mr.Shyne (Owner)

2. Mrs.Soniya (wife)

3. Father

4. Mother

Table 13 RATING TABLE (DESIGNER)

ARCHITECT

Ar. Arjun KJ (i2a Architects Studio

2
 DESIGNER

QUESTIONS

1. How you zoned residence to this small plot? 3

2. What about the space optimisation in this 3

project ?

3. How would you rate the flexibility of use of 3

space you have created?

4.Why don’t you recommend other methods? 4

Advantage over prefabricated method

5. usability and client satisfaction 3

6. Quality of spaces provided 4

7. overall aesthetics of residence 4

Table 14 RATING TABLE (OCCUPANTS/ USERS)

OCCUPANTS

1. Mr.Shyne (Owner)

2. Mrs.Soniya (wife)

3. Father

4. Mother

NO:

1 2

QUESTIONS

3
 1. How will you rate the quality of space of 4 4
this building in 5 ?

2. How will you rate the building in terms of 4 4

aesthetics and visual impact?

3. Have you felt any discomfort in terms of YES YES

discomfort and flexibility of use of space?

4. Have you felt any kind of discomfort YES YES

because of the material used for
construction?

5. Would you recommend this construction YES YES

method and technology to others?

DISCUSSION
Based on live case study on pre-fabricated residences
Table 15 Based on live case study on pre-fabricated residences

DESIGNER 1 DESIGNER 2 DESIGNER 3 TOTAL( 15)

QUESTIONS

1. Did the use of steel help you in space 3 4 4 11

optimisation?

2. How would you rate the use of steel 4 4 4 12

and gypsum in achieving the visual
impact of your building in others?

3. How would you rate the flexibility of 4 4 4 12

use of space you have created?

4.Advantage over conventional method 4 4 4 12

4
 5. usability and client satisfaction 5 5 5 15

6. Quality of spaces provided 3 3 3 9

7. overall aesthetics of residence 3 3 3 9

Table 16 Comparison

CASESTUDY 01
Space
optimization 3 4
Aesthetics

Flexibility
4 3
use of space

CASESTUDY 02
Space
optimization 5 4
Aesthetics

Flexibility

3
use of space 4

5
 CASESTUDY 03
Space
optimization 4 4
Aesthetics

Flexibility

use of space 4 3

• Flexibility
and use of
OVERALL CONCLUSION
space AGE ABOVE 50
40% 14%
AGE BELOW
30
14%

Aesthetics
• Space 20%
optimization
36%
• Space optimization • Flexibility and use of space
• Aesthetics and Visual impacts. AGE ABOVE 50
AGE BELOW 30

Based on live case study on conventional residences

Table 17 Based on live case study on conventional residences

6
 CASESTUDY 01
Space
optimization 4
3
Aesthetics

Flexibility

3
use of space 2

CASESTUDY 02
Space 5
optimization 3
Aesthetics

Flexibility
2
use of space 4

OVERALL CONCLUSION
AGE ABOVE 50
• Space optimization
40%
• Flexibility and
use of space • Flexibility and use of
20% space
• Aesthetics and Visual
impacts.
Aesthetics AGE ABOVE 50
• Space 60%
optimization
20% AGE BELOW 30
AGE BELOW 30
20%

7
5.3 Based on interactions with practicing architects in kerala

1. Ar. Manuraj CR (i2a Architects Studio )

2. Ar. Arjun KJ (i2a Architects Studio )

3. Ar. Levin P Joy (Finder studio )

4. Ar. Josaph Josaph Chalisery (Dream infinite studio)

5. Ar. CS Menon ( CS MENON Associates )

Table 18 Based on interactions with practicing architects in kerala

QUESTIONS 1 2 3 4 5

1. Have you done any project with pre NO YES NO NO NO

fabricated construction method ? If NO why
don’t you prefer these types methods.

2. Your opinion about the construction with pre 2 3 2 2 3

fabricated method ?

3. Is this method have more advantages with 2 2 2 2 3

the conventional method ?

4.When we looking into aspects like 3 3 2 3 3

• Space optimization

• Aesthetics and Visual impacts.

• Flexibility and use of space.

Which method is more suitable to the context

of kerala?

No one are done a fully-fledged Prefabricated building*

Looking into space optimisation and flexibility it is ok

8
But aspects like aesthetics visual impacts and use of spaces conventional method is more
feasible to the context of kerala. *

• Drastic increase in cost of

BACKGROUND construction materials
STUDY FROM • An alternative method want to be
INTERVIEW introduced in the construction sector
of residence.

• Steel, gypsum and ALC panels have

LITERATURE more advantages as compared with
REVIEW the conventional method.
• There is drastic difference in time and
cost

• The energy efficiency of these

LITERATURE CASE buildings are high.
STUDY • Building is more flexible
• Increase in carpet and thereby have
more space inside.

9
Inference from live case study
5.4.1 Prefabricated residences
 Have more advantages when looking
into the aspects of space optimization
and flexibility
 Visual interests can vary from person
to person.
 Construction techniques supporting
these provision of future changes, by
reducing the demolition need / ease in
installation etc.,
 Time and cost are the other aspects
attracting to the technology of
prefabricated construction
 When looking into clients they are
more satisfied about the quality of
space inside, usability and living
atmosphere inside
5.4.2 Conventional residences
When looking into aspect of aesthetics this
method is more aesthetically pleasing.
Although the idea of aesthetics can vary from
person to person, as to what they prefer to see
through their eyes, the general finish of the
type of construction matters; whether it is
neat, eye pleasing, availability of colours and
textures etc.
5.4.3 Live interactions
Most of the architects not interested with the
method of prefabrication. It all about the lack
of understanding about the particular method
of construction. Architects wanted promote
more about these method and also want to put
forward more design ideas with these
methods.
CONCLUSION
From the above live casestudies certain
conclusions can be drawn, based on the three
key factors for comparison : Space
optimization, Aesthetics and Visual impacts,
Flexibility and use of space, all in the Kerala
context.
1
Space optimization: From the case studies it is
clear that the use of steel gypsum & ALC
construction provides room for optimising
whatever the space available, over
conventional RCC framed structure. : In
conventional method, the wall sizes are
normally 25 cm thick while using steel and ALC
it is only 15 cm thick, thus overall there will be
a considerable increase in usable space of the
building. Also in prefabricated structures, the
columns used are less and this too helps in
optimising the space available. This helps in
creating more room for usable spaces while
keeping the total floor area intact. Thus
helping in reducing the waste of spaces and
creating more spacious interiors.
So to conclude, in this present scenario of
increasing land value and decreasing land
availability, optimization of whatever little
space available is of clear importance to save
space, money as well as resources. A
conventional method of construction may not
always fulfil the space requirements of the
users/ designers which demands for newer
methods, like prefabricated construction, that
can withstand the crisis of space limitation.
Aesthetics and Visual impacts: As we all know,
aesthetics is a very subjective matter and there
is no “correct” way of presenting it. That being
said, from the above case studies as well as
from discussions with the architects and
designers, it is evident that prefabricated
structures create a touch of typicality in
designs especially in external facades. There is
very less to experiment with, in this type of
construction. But conventional RCC framed
method of construction provides more room
for experimentation by allowing the use of
different materials, finishes etc.
Flexibility and use of space: In steel &
gypsum/ ALC construction the walls are
installed as panels and can be removed or
demolished easily compared to conventional
methods of construction. So a space can be
reinterpreted in the future years by making
slight alterations in the structure without
creating much havoc or structural instability. in interior furniture or partition walls may can
Also, there are very minimal amount of be made to make the spaces flexible.
columns and beams running inside the
The intended use, at the time of
residence. So the flexibility in use of space is
designing/construction, of a particular space
ensured to a great extent. In conventional
can change over the years based on user
method, as the walls are all load bearing,
demands, especially in today’s fast growing
future alterations or extensions in the design
era. Thus to conclude, steel & ALC method of
may affect the structural stability of the
construction would be more successful in
building and would be a great risk to do so.
achieving flexibility in design for the future.
Only adaptive reuses of space like the change

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