These dwellings are structures composed of multiple individual living units constructed off-site in a controlled factory environment and then assembled on a permanent foundation. This building approach provides an alternative to traditional on-site construction for residential complexes designed to house several families. An example includes an apartment building where each unit is built separately in a factory and later joined together to form the complete structure.
The adoption of this methodology can lead to increased efficiency, reduced construction timelines, and greater cost control compared to conventional building practices. Historically, interest in this building style has waxed and waned with technological advancements and economic pressures. Currently, increased demand for affordable housing and innovations in construction technology are driving renewed interest in this approach.