Architecture Involution LLC (Ai3) and Triumph Modular recently launched the CASE 21 classroom solution - a high-performance learning environment employing state-of-the-art green design, organizational layout and educational technology integration - the perfect classroom to address space, learning environment and budget needs of school districts. MBI speaks with Scott Dunlap, AIA, LEED AP and Partner of Ai3 about the role of modular construction for school space needs during this time of both green evolution and economic uncertainty.

MBI: What is the driving force behind your introduction of CASE 21 into the school construction market-place? What do you hope to achieve with this modular design?
Dunlap: As an architectural firm focusing 100% of our efforts on creating 21st Century educational environments, we have achieved tremendous success in creating environments which improve teaching and learning. We have also advanced the "Green" movement; designing some of the first schools in New England to comply with LEED, MA-CHPS, and NE-CHPS requirements. However, all of these projects involved site-built construction that required extended planning, design, and construction timelines. As we observed the realities of the educational needs of many Towns, we realized that much of their decision making process was based on immediacy; the need for an immediate solution. The concept of a three year timeline from concept to final occupancy was just not practical. These Towns wanted high quality learning environments that were also Green, but they had no time to wait. The driving force behind the introduction of CASE 21 was to provide these Owners who believe in high quality educational environments and the benefits of Green design an immediate solution to their educational needs.



Rendering of the CASE 21 modular design.
See inside the classroom


MBI: What unique attributes of the CASE 21 modular design address the current economic crisis?
Dunlap: As a result of the current economic crisis the Federal Government has placed particular emphasis on projects that can: 1) commence immediately; therefore putting people to work without delay. 2) Include green, sustainable, and/or alternative energy components; therefore ensuring that such projects reduce energy usage and protect the environment. 3) Promote wise and efficient use of funds without waste. 4) Provide a positive impact on the education of America's youth. The CASE 21 modular design happens to provide ALL OF THIS.


MBI: What are the very best features of the CASE 21 classroom, in terms of energy efficiency?
Dunlap: Everything about it is more efficient that a typical classroom; lighting, heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, water consumption. It's a very smart classroom which understands its occupants and adjusts all systems accordingly. Natural day-lighting, natural ventilation, photovoltaics, gray water collection, wind power, solar hot water ... there's really no limit to what we are capable of with today's technology.


MBI: Why modular? What advantage does modular offer over site-build?
Dunlap: Modular is faster, more precise, more Green, more economical. It can be constructed in a controlled environment, there is less waste, less trips to a job site, less fuel burned… the lists goes on-and-on. The more we learn about the tremendous advancements that have occurred in modular construction over the past few years ... the more we say "Why site-build" ... but old habits die hard; and as with any other new process, it will take time for everyone to fully embrace and understand the advantages of modular.


MBI: The costs of this space are comparable to site-build, but the building is promoted as "meet[ing] the budget needs of school districts." Can you explain how CASE 21's modular design makes it a cost-advantage for a school district?
Dunlap: It's all about schedule and the time value of money. There are many costs (other than the bricks-and-mortar construction costs) associated with the design and construction of a school expansion project. By expediting the process, many of these other costs are reduced. Additionally, the fast-track schedule can avoid significant construction inflation costs.

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