Login
2020 has been a challenging year for many individuals, businesses and industries. While the Mowery team has also had to adjust to a “new normal” (which includes social distancing, remote work and shifts in available resources), we optimistically look forward to a new year that will bring fresh ideas and innovations.
In the construction industry, each year there are new designs, building methods and technology that create a more efficient construction process as well as enhance the customer experience. Check out what we predict will be the top five construction trends in 2021.
#1 – Increased Safety Measures
As a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is no surprise 2021 will be a year where safety measures on construction sites continue to be an area of focus. To keep team members and subcontractors safe, Mowery predicts smaller teams will be sent to jobsites in shifts to help reduce large crowds. Additionally, we predict the use of face masks and other personal protective equipment will continue to be required on jobsites next year.
Not only do we predict safety measures will be increased among construction teams and jobsites, but we also believe clients will be looking for safer designs and finishes for their facilities. In response to the pandemic, we recently began construction on a senior living facility where the client requested pathogen deterrence measures in the HVAC system, multiple hand washing stations and touchless door hardware. We see requests like these increasing in 2021 to ensure community buildings are as safe as possible.
#2 – Technology Takes Off
Although typically the construction industry is known as late adapters, we have come to rely on technology for help designing builds, managing projects and even increasing collaboration among team members. Although there are several pieces of technology and software that contribute to the industry, Mowery predicts 3-D printing, virtual reality and augmented reality will grow in popularity in 2021.
3-D printing allows for custom pieces of design to be manufactured at a more affordable rate. We predict design-build teams will take full advantage of this in 2021. Additionally, virtual reality will have a bigger impact in improving design processes. At Mowery, we currently use virtual reality to view 3-D simulations of buildings before they are even constructed. This allows our team and clients to identify any changes or issues before ground breaks. With technology continually advancing, we see virtual reality playing a larger role in the construction industry in the coming year.
Augmented reality is another area predicted to grow throughout 2021. Augmented reality is an interactive experience of a real-world environment, such as jobsites and buildings. Mowery uses HoloBuilder software to integrate augmented reality and 360-degree imagery in the field to view full floorplans (including ceiling, floors and walls) as well as capture 360-degree photos of a project’s progression. The details this software provides will not only streamline construction processes but enhance the experience as well.
#3 – Request for Special Projects Rise
Due to COVID-19, many individuals and businesses are reconsidering the layout of their homes and offices. Pre-pandemic, few people were working from home, but now remote work is a reality for many. For businesses, the large conference room that was once filled with employees and clients is empty. As we enter 2021, Mowery predicts our Special Projects Group will continue to see increases in renovation work as individuals look to add home office space and businesses look to remodel their offices to promote social distancing (i.e. cubicles six feet apart).
#4 – Modular Construction becomes Trendy
The construction industry is fast paced. At Mowery, we continuously look for ways to increase efficiency while producing higher quality end results. Modular construction is one way to achieve these goals, which is why we see this method of construction trending in 2021.
Modular buildings can be temporary, which makes them ideal for current times. For example, if extra hospital rooms are needed or if a corporate building needs individual office space for each employee, prefabricated buildings can be built easily. Another benefit of modular construction is the cost effectiveness. Because less workforce is required to construct these buildings, money is saved. To learn more about modular construction, read our Modular Construction 101 blog.
#5 – Sustainability becomes a Priority
At Mowery, we believe strongly in sustainable building principles and seek to incorporate them into every building project. As we enter 2021, our team believes sustainable practices in the construction industry will become a priority. Not only do contractors want to provide eco-friendly solutions, but more and more clients are looking for sustainability specifications in order to receive designations and tax credits.
At Mowery, our current LEED design and implementation strategy addresses sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental equality, and innovation and design process. In fact, because of our team’s commitment to sustainability, we worked with a client to design and build one of the largest LEED Silver certified buildings in Pennsylvania.
Why Mowery?
Our team implements the latest industry trends not only to keep our team safe and efficient, but also to provide our clients with a remarkable construction experience. If you are looking for a general contractor or design build team who will bring your vision to life using cutting-edge methods and technology, connect with us today.
