Pre-engineered buildings have emerged as a solution to meet the demand for flexible and efficient designs in the current evolving landscape. They offer architects opportunities to rethink how we construct and shape our environments.
Ar. Sonali Bhagwati, Designplus Architecture
Today, pre-engineered buildings are the new lookout for modern designs with their ultimate flexibility in providing design solutions that meet the needs of contemporary settings. The concept behind PEBs is creating standardised, modular components that can be customised as per the specific project requirements.
PEBs are fabricated in a factory environment before being transported to the construction site for assembly. Their fundamental steel framework is provided by a combination of built-up sections, hot-rolled sections, and cold-formed elements. Single-skin sheeting with additional insulation panels for wall cladding and roofing is also an option. The idea is to offer a fully functional building envelope system that fits user needs and is airtight, energy-efficient, lightest possible, and least expensive. A variety of structural accessories, such as mezzanine floors, canopies, and interior partitions, can be installed on these pre-engineered steel buildings.
PEBs offer limitless design options. They enable column-free interiors as the high strength-to-weight ratio of steel allows for longer spans without the need for intermediate support columns. This is particularly advantageous for commercial and industrial buildings that require large areas. For architects, this structural freedom opens up new possibilities for designing spaces that prioritise functionality.
While PEBs often have industrial aesthetics, modern advancements in materials and finishes have elevated their visual appeal. These buildings can now be clad in a variety of exterior materials, allowing for new levels of customization. This exterior versatility makes PEBs suitable for a wide range of applications, from sleek corporate offices to contemporary retail spaces. The flexibility in exterior cladding and finishes also enables designers to integrate PEBs into urban environments. The ability to experiment with textures, colours, and materials gives us the freedom to craft visually engaging facades.
Pre-engineered buildings offer architects design solutions that have a minimal carbon footprint on their projects. Since they are fabricated in a controlled environment, there is minimal onsite excavation and construction, and therefore minimum wastage, which make for a sustainable design.
Ar. Sumit Dhawan, Cityspace82’ Architects
PEBs can be designed with energy-efficient features. Insulated panels, advanced glazing systems, and energy-efficient roofing materials can be incorporated to optimize thermal performance. Moreover, PEBs can be equipped with solar panels or other renewable energy systems, further enhancing their eco-friendly credentials. This contributes to overall efficiency and meets the needs of modern designs.
Many PEB projects qualify for green building certifications due to their efficient use of materials, and reduced construction waste. These certifications are becoming increasingly important for developers seeking to meet stringent sustainability standards and attract environmentally conscious tenants or buyers. Moreover, this certification leads to better design and regulatory standards which align with the sustainable goals of today.
Pre-engineered steel buildings are at the forefront of integrating smart technology into design. They can be equipped with smart sensors, climate control systems, and advanced security features. The steel framework of PEBs makes it easier to incorporate these technologies, which can be managed through a centralised building management system. This smart integration enhances the building’s functionality and improves its energy efficiency.
Pre-engineered buildings have evolved to become a cutting-edge solution for the hospitality sector. From boutique hotels to expansive resorts, these structures provide flexibility in design, enabling architects make them just as luxurious and detail-oriented as traditionally built hotels.
Ar. Anil Badan, Studio B Architects
The hospitality industry is booming with new constructions and designs, which cater to memorable guest experiences all the time. Developers are looking for innovative building methods that meet aesthetic requirements, sustainable designs, and speedy construction.
The evolving hospitality industry demands rapid construction of their projects and PEBs are the best solution for the same. The assembly of pre-engineered steel components is far quicker than traditional construction methods. With PEBs, most of the building’s structural elements are fabricated off-site for a better streamlined process. This method reduces the construction timeline, allowing hotels to begin operations sooner, maximising revenue potential. The quicker turnaround is ideal for large-scale resorts, where phased development may be necessary while still operating certain sections of the property.
Larger hospitality projects often lead to budgetary constraints, but with PEBs, cost-cutting can be done: labour costs are minimised and the risk of weather-related delays significantly reduced. What’s more, the precision of pre-engineered steel components brings fewer errors, reducing the likelihood of costly on-site adjustments.
As the hospitality market changes, properties often need to adapt quickly. Expansions can be executed without the need for extensive modifications with PEBs due to their modular nature. This allows hotel owners to scale their operations responding to new business opportunities with minimal disruption. For example, a resort might begin with a smaller configuration of rooms and public spaces, only to expand later by adding modular sections for additional suites.
For the hospitality sector, embracing the design potential of pre-engineered steel buildings means unlocking new opportunities to create spaces that are functional, cost-effective, visually stunning, and environmentally responsible.
