Modular room systems for flexible interim uses now available for hire

The Innosuisse research project ‘àDisposition’ had a clear objective: to facilitate the transformation of vacant buildings and derelict industrial sites into operational temporary spaces. Researchers at Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) led the project, working closely with partners from industry and civil society. “Such interim uses make a lot of sense in terms of sustainability. They help make the best use of restricted spaces, drive inward densification and raise a neighbourhood’s profile,” explains Christoph Sigrist, ‘àDisposition’ project manager. The project has officially come to an end. Its objectives have been achieved and, in some cases, exceeded.

Light, flexible timber segments

The project team developed modular timber segments, which can be assembled to form modular room systems. The system can be used as a studio, shop, co-working space, hotel room, information stand at a sporting event, emergency accommodation or, in the future, as a flat. The planning and deployment processes are explained in a dedicated digital tool, which offers users 3D-visualisations of assembly options of the segments so they can form a system in line with their requirements. The digital production data for the CNC machines is generated directly by the tool, thereby facilitating an accelerated, cost-effective production process. Beat Cattaruzza, who runs the converted factory DISPO, joined the project team five years ago: “From the outset, the system was meant to be easy to set up and fall within a realistic price range,” he stresses.

For the assembly process, the aim was to ensure that two laypeople could mount the supporting structure for a segment in approximately 15 minutes, followed by the application of wall panels and (insulating) layers to enclose the space. To achieve this, the parts had to be very light. “The heaviest component is the floor, which weighs up to 60 kilos”, explains Christophe Sigrist. The system is based on the ‘onion’ principle: “The wooden frames for the floor, walls and roof are a constant fixture. Different walls and layers can then be added depending on the intended use.” Based on the requirements in terms of acoustics, thermal insulation, fire protection or aesthetics, various materials are used: a window to let in light, a screen to ensure privacy or a cork panel used as a pinboard. One concept that merits further exploration in the future is the utilisation of these modules in outdoor settings: “To do that, we would have to develop a kind of windproof and waterproof ‘jumper’ for the modules,” says Sigrist.

Practical testing

Over the past six months, the project team has dedicated itself to trials, testing the modular room systems in a wide variety of configurations. From December 2025 to March 2026, a module was placed in the covered outdoor area at DISPO. Another feature was not originally planned: the system can be used for two-storey spaces. “We have built a module where you can live or work downstairs and sleep upstairs. Comfort and structural integrity are guaranteed,” says Sigrist. Furthermore, a comprising seven segments arranged in a row was used as a meeting room and exhibition space in the DISPO Hall. During a workshop in the south of France, students tested whether certain wall panels could be made from recycled materials. “Using reclaimed doors and windows or PVP panels that have already been used for other purposes takes sustainability to a whole new level,” says Sigrist.

The project manager was particularly pleased that the connections developed between the frames and the various layers can indeed be detached and reattached multiple times, as anticipated, without causing any damage. Also, the segments can be moved around very easily on small trolleys, making it very straightforward to rearrange them. “We are proud to now be able to present a complete modular system to the public,” says Sigrist. “Obviously, the system can be refined or adapted in the future. Our aim was precisely to ensure the flexibility needed to make use of a wide variety of unused spaces.”

Open to new applications

The project, funded by Innosuisse, was officially completed in November 2025. The task now is to identify specific applications for the modular room systems. The subsequent step will entail the systematic determination of production, rental and sales costs, with these figures then being verified against future projects. The objective is to undertake two or three significant projects over the next three years, thereby achieving market readiness. “We are currently seeking new projects and are open to all sorts of ideas,” says Sigrist. The project team is planning to attend trade fairs and other events in the future. The system will be showcased during Timber Construction Day Biel/Bienne (in German) on 10 September 2026.

At present, approximately 60 of the newly developed elements are stored in the DISPO Hall in Nidau. They can be assembled into timber construction segments and flexibly combined to form a wide variety of modules. People interested can contact Beat Cattaruzza or even hire them.

Timber Construction Day Biel/Bienne: 10 September 2026

Timber construction: adaptive, hybrid, future-oriented

The event will offer an in-depth overview of the latest developments in timber construction and provide an opportunity for discussion and networking.

• Timber Construction Day Biel/Bienne | BFH (in German)