Nexen Housing Module Prototype

Dilly Creek, British Columbia

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Originally developed for Nexen CNOOC Limited’s Remote Workforce Accommodation project in Dilly Creek, British Columbia, the 312-square-foot cross-laminated timber (CLT) module is designed to be highly energy efficient, durable, and constructed with minimal waste—offering advancements in both prefabrication and livability. The replicated module is part of one of the largest proposed CLT structures at 646,000-square-feet.

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The module was designed to address the construction challenges inherent in the Workforce Accommodation project’s remote location and harsh weather conditions. By providing a unique off-site prefabricated and modular solution, we were able to ensure that a high quality, healthy, and durable building was constructed efficiently while further reducing labour inputs.

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The prototype was built to test the process of using CLT within a factory setting, confirm durability of transport, and ensure an efficient project delivery. Nexen supplied the prototype to UBC’s Timber Engineering and Applied Mechanics lab who will conduct further research and investigate themes including structural integrity, prefabrication, hybrid high-rise buildings, floor vibration, soundproofing, long-term heat and moisture movement through CLT panels, and transportation of modules.

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UBC will host the prototype for one year providing the opportunity to see first-hand the possibilities of prefabricated modular design, and how CLT can be a practical and appealing material for construction. Off-site prefabrication and modularization is an approach to construction that offers many benefits, such as an accelerated schedule, increased quality control, and cost savings, as well as reduction in waste and site disturbance.

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With livability in mind, the module improves upon the aesthetic, materials, acoustics, and thermal performance of Nexen’s current conventional housing camps, and uses Passive House principles to achieve a robust building envelope. The module will have a 50-year life span and require minimal maintenance, as opposed to the predominant approach that requires replacement every ten to fifteen years.

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The project team also included ATCO Structures & Logistics, AHC+Derix, Bird Construction, Equilibrium Consulting, AME Group, AES Engineering, CFT Engineering, RWDI Consulting Engineers, and Altus Group.