Before the first meeting with an architecture firm for a corporate expansion, it is advisable to have some points clear. It is not about arriving with a finished plan, but with the information that allows the team to understand the scope of the project. The first thing is to define the program of needs: how many additional square meters are required? What areas need to be covered (offices, meeting rooms, laboratories, warehouses)? It is also useful to know the operating hours of the current building, because a modular expansion can be carried out at night or on weekends to avoid disrupting daily activity. Another aspect is the estimated budget: an exact figure is not necessary, but a realistic range that allows the firm to propose viable solutions. Finally, review the existing documentation: building plans, soil studies if available, and any municipal or condominium regulation restrictions. With these elements, the initial consultation becomes productive and back-and-forth is avoided. At Castelao Adiciones, we work with developers who already have this information or obtain it during the first week of contact. The result is a preliminary project tailored to real needs, without surprises.
Before requesting a quote for a modular addition, it is advisable to have the building's current plans, load requirements, and intended uses clear. This guide details the documentation a developer should gather, typical prefabrication and assembly timelines, and the key questions addressed in the first technical meeting. The goal is to make the initial consultation productive and avoid rework.
Not all modular expansions require the same level of engineering. This article compares three modalities: turnkey addition, panel supply with supervised assembly, and structural consulting for traditional construction. Real cases of offices in Buenos Aires and Córdoba are analyzed, with relative costs and execution times. The decision depends on the profile of the existing building and the developer's schedule.
From the load-bearing capacity of the existing slab to compatibility with central HVAC systems, developers often have very specific doubts before signing a contract. This article compiles the most common queries received in the last twelve months, with technical answers based on Argentine regulations and examples of previous projects. Useful reading for anyone evaluating a first modular expansion.