Fast2Frame Pilot Project
Fast2Frame Boston Model
The Fast2Frame Boston Model is a comprehensive building design and construction system featuring a standardized mass timber frame and building elements, utilizing off-site factory produced components for optimal building construction.
Fast2Frame is developing a pilot site in Wilmington, NC., using the Boston Model to establish construction methods, speed, costs and financial performance criteria of Fast2Frame designs.
Prototype pricing for the model was established in Portland, ME in 2023 providing impetus for development of the pilot project. The Boston Model is a 62,000 sq. ft., seven story, type IV-C building of 59 units and designed to meet Massachusetts' code height of 70 ft. This model has wide applicability in New England and national infill sites.
Fast2Frame Boston Model Features
- Primary frame and plank components are standardized sizes based on the model and are not site dependent. This allows component stocking, inventory control, and efficient factory production.
- Configurable floor layouts including mechanical systems designs are independent of frame design and construction. All integrated mechanical penetrations are factory produced.
- Standardized and fewer building components reduce construction hours and costs compared to typical (5 frame stories over 2 concrete) multi-family residential building designs.
- Frame completion target in 10 weeks is key to construction speed allowing improvements in subsequent construction steps, trades management, financial strategies, and risk mitigation.
- Integrated lateral structural system provides single party responsibility eliminating coordination complexities of typical multi-floor gravity vs lateral designs.
- Site selection and design allows for flexible staging and erection by mobile cranes eliminating tower cranes.
- Panelized wall/window systems allows for quick enclosure and bulk material loading on each floor and speeds interior work.