Habitat

Net Zero

Atlas Builders was engaged by Habitat for Humanity to play a crucial role in the Habitat Net Zero project, aimed at providing sustainable, energy-efficient housing for families in need. The project involved constructing nine single- and two-family homes in Queens, New York, with a focus on achieving net-zero energy consumption. To expedite the process and reduce on-site construction time, Habitat for Humanity contracted MSS to prefabricate the homes, which were then transported to the site for final assembly.

Habitat for Humanity has long been a beacon of hope for families striving to achieve homeownership. Their mission is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a safe, decent, and affordable place to live. The Habitat Net Zero project was designed not only to meet these basic needs but to exceed them by incorporating sustainable practices that would benefit homeowners for years to come. By focusing on net-zero energy consumption, the project aims to reduce both the environmental impact and the financial burden of homeownership, making it more attainable and sustainable for first-time buyers.

Location
Queens, New York

Surface Area
13,395 SF

Category
Affordable Housing

Role / Self Performance
Concrete

Interior Finishes

Management of Modular Delivery & Placement

Scope of Work

  1. Foundation Construction: Atlas constructed robust foundations for all nine homes, ensuring they were perfectly aligned and ready to support the prefabricated modules.

  2. Craning Coordination: The team managed the intricate process of craning the modular units onto their foundations. This phase demanded precision and careful timing to mitigate risks associated with handling large structures in a dense urban setting.

  3. Final Site Connections: Post-craning, Atlas completed the final site connections, including utility hookups and structural integrations. This step was crucial to transitioning the modular units into fully functional homes ready for occupancy.

Challenges

The journey was not without its challenges. Prefabrication, while efficient, introduced complexities that required on-the-fly problem-solving. Many of the modules arrived incomplete, necessitating additional work on-site to ensure they met the required standards. The tight urban environment in Queens also added layers of logistical hurdles, particularly during the craning operations.

Results

Despite the challenges presented by the newness of the prefabrication process and the urban constraints of Queens, the Habitat Net Zero project was a resounding success. Atlas Builders completed the project on time, delivering nine sustainable, net-zero energy homes to families in need. The project not only contributed to the local community but also provided valuable insights into the future of modular construction.

Conclusion

The Habitat Net Zero project underscores Atlas Builders’ ability to navigate complex construction challenges while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and innovation. This project stands as a testament to the company’s expertise in managing cutting-edge construction techniques and delivering results that exceed client expectations.

Team Overview

Atlas Builders

A reputed GC known for its expertise in commercial and residential construction projects.

Habitat for Humanity

A global nonprofit focused on building and increasing ownership of affordable housing.

Castrucci Architects

Castrucci Architects has long track record of designing sustainable affordable housing, including modular construction projects.

MSS

A designer, builder and installer of modular, prefabricated homes.