In this article we cover:
- Modular concrete build costs
- Story behind the build and why they chose modular concrete
- Process of building a modular concrete home
- Changes during the build and troubleshooting
- Top tips and advice
- Biggest splurge, favourite features
- Modular build timeline
- Floor plans, specification and supplier list
- Photos of the build phases and house at the end
How did the idea of building your own home come about?
We’d always wanted to build our own house and we were saving up for it, while living with my parents. When a nearby site came up for sale, just up the road from my parents’ house, it was perfect timing.
What made us want to self-build is to create a home designed around our needs, with the space and comfort we’d long been searching for.
House size: 158 sqm
Bedrooms: 3
Plot size: 1 acre
Total build cost: €330,000, which included fittings, tiles, bathroom furniture and appliances
Groundworks and foundations: €30,000
Heating system: Air to water heat pump
Ventilation: Centralised mechanised with heat recovery
Build method: Concrete modular
BER: A2
What were the next steps?
After we bought the site, our next step was to look into different building options. We came across a modular home product online and decided to reach out for more information.
Our first real introduction was a Zoom call with Conor, who walked us through their product and explained how everything worked. We found the process straightforward and seamless, which gave us confidence to move forward.
The next step was to finalise the design. That was the basis for the drawings and technical information that our architectural designer needed to submit our planning application.
Once planning permission was granted, we went ahead and signed the contract with the modular build company.
Why did you choose to go with this modular building method?
Mainly because of the time savings and convenience it offered. Both of us were working full time, and the idea of having to coordinate different trades and subcontractors ourselves was overwhelming. The modular approach also meant the build was completed very quickly, which was a big advantage for us.
“The modular approach also meant the build was completed very quickly, which was a big advantage for us.”
How was the project managed?
Our role was to get to the point of the modular components coming on site. So I coordinated with our own builder for the groundwork and foundations, since the modular build company didn’t handle that part.
We chose finishes from the options provided by the company and their suppliers. We were given clear budgets for each section, like windows, doors and tiles, and they made sure we didn’t go over those allowances. Most of our choices were made online or during scheduled meetings. For the kitchen we did go to the showroom to pick out the design and appliances we liked.
On site our modular builder managed everything, from electrical and carpentry to sourcing windows and doors, so we didn’t have to get involved in the day-to[1]day coordination during construction.
We only needed to visit the site occasionally, as they handled everything else, making sure the project stayed on track and within budget.
Top Tip
Stay in regular contact with your builder throughout the process, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek advice, especially during the planning and design stages.
Did you make any changes during the build?
No. Once we signed off on the final design and specifications, everything was set in stone because the modules were manufactured off site.
Any changes had to be made before that final sign-off. This approach actually made budgeting and planning much easier, since we knew exactly what to expect and there were no surprises during construction.
Walk us through the build.
We signed the contract in April and moved in before Christmas, so the entire build took less than a year from start to finish.
Once the foundations were ready and approved, the modules were delivered on six articulated lorries and installed by crane in a single day.
The roof trusses were first assembled and positioned on the foundations. They were then lifted off to allow the modules to be craned into place, after which the roof was installed.
Within a week, the house was standing and about 80 per cent complete, with windows, doors and most of the tiling already done and electrics and plumbing all connected.
There was very little disruption, and the whole process felt efficient and well organised.
What was the most stressful part?
Organising and completing the groundwork and foundations. Since the modular company didn’t handle that aspect, we had to find our own builder and make sure everything was done exactly to the specifications provided.
It was a bit stressful to get it right, as the entire modular installation depended on the foundations being precise. Thankfully, the modular build company checked everything before installation, which gave us some reassurance, but that initial groundwork was definitely the most challenging part for us.
Q&A with Declan
What is your favourite design feature?
My favourite part of the house has to be the dining room. It was actually an extra module Carmel suggested adding, and it’s become the heart of the home. It’s where we spend most of our time, enjoying family meals and gatherings. I also love the open plan layout, the warmth from the underfloor heating and the quality of the finishes throughout. The house feels bright, comfortable, and really practical. Honestly, there’s nothing I’d change.
Biggest splurge?
Probably on the tiles and some of the finishes. We went a little over budget on the tiles because we wanted something special, but we balanced it out by saving in other areas like the internal doors. It was worth it, as the tiles really add to the look and feel of the house.
What single piece of advice would you give someone who’s considering a modular build?
Visit other completed homes built by the company you’re considering. Seeing the finished product in person gives you a clear idea of the quality, layout and what to expect, helping you make better decisions about your own build.
Spec
Walls: 315mm insulated precast concrete panel, U-value 0.155 W/sqmK
Floors: 220mm insulated precast concrete slab, U-value 0.13 W/sqmK
Roof: slates on horizontal battens on breather roofing membrane on 150mm roof truss on 115mm wall plate on concrete module lid. Insulated ceiling achieves a U-value of 0.16 W/sqmK.
Windows: passive uPVC windows, triple glazed, overall U-value 0.74 W/sqmK
Suppliers
Modular build company
BuildWright, buildwright.ie
Builder (foundations)
Sean Kelly
Kitchen appliances
Fleming’s Monaghan, expert.ie
