MODULAR FUTURES

Modular walls are assembled out of prefabricated panels and elements designed to be snapped, clipped, or screwed together on-site.

- By Bindu Gopal Rao

Modular walls are changing the way we approach sustainability by using eco-friendly raw materials and minimising waste while still falling within the budget.

MATERIAL MATTERS

Core materials for modular walls differ: gypsum or mineral wool provides stiffness and fire resistance, MDF or lightweight plywood provides a millwork-friendly surface, and metal or composite frames ensure structural rigidity. Gaskets or seals are typically used to attain acoustic performance and moisture resistance for the system. Since modules are made offsite, tolerances are always very tight, making for the exact fit. They are compatible with electrical, data, and lighting channels, for a clean plug-and-play installation with minimal disruption to the site,” says Sudhir Thorat, Managing Director of APICES Studio Pvt Ltd.

Contemporary materials which are being used in modular walls emphasise performance, sustainability, and design. Composites and foams of the high-performance type minimise mass and still offer structural and acoustic functionality. For an eco-friendly choice, there are engineered woods and bamboo, or you can go for panels with recycled content. Transparent or translucent polycarbonate and glass-infused laminates enable light transmission and visual connection between spaces. Hygiene/durability challenges are solved with recycled metals, nano-textured laminates, and antimicrobial coatings. These innovations increase design flexibility while achieving modern building energy codes and LEED- or a WELL-type certification,” adds Sudhir.

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