North Star Group, Inc.

19901 Quail Circle

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701-770-9118

michaelh@nsgia.com

Prepared For: Butenko Anti-Crisis Management, Kyiv, Ukraine

Prepared By: North Star Group (NSG), Inc.

Date: March 23, 2025

Meeting the Moment: A Personalized Strategic Partnership for Resilient, Aﬀordable Housing

Ukraine stands at a critical juncture, facing an urgent need for swift, innovative solutions that

address both immediate housing and energy crises while laying the foundation for long-term

stability and resilience. North Star Group deeply appreciates the extraordinary eﬀorts and vision

of Zoriana Butenko and her dedicated team at the Leading Ukrainian Energy Development Team

and the Anti-crisis Oﬃce, who are actively committed to rebuilding Ukraine’s energy sector.

Recognizing the signiﬁcant challenges created by recent missile strikes, we see a powerful

opportunity to collaborate closely and strategically.

Our collaboration builds upon the principles and solutions developed over more than two years

of focused eﬀort in aﬀordable modular housing for the U.S. market, where the housing shortfall

currently exceeds seven million units according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition

(2024). This signiﬁcant housing gap underscores the importance and urgency of scalable,

cost-eﬃcient solutions.

A notable advantage of our approach is the substantial cost eﬃciency provided by modular

construction methods. In the U.S., modular housing typically costs between $115 to $135 per

square foot. By comparison, factory-built modular construction in Ukraine ranges approximately

$37–46 per square foot for fully ﬁnished volumetric modules, and about $23–33 per square foot

for Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) construction, signiﬁcantly lower than conventional Ukrainian

masonry methods, which typically cost $50–60 per square foot.

Our designs (if you agree) intentionally incorporate compliance with U.S. building codes and

standards from inception, facilitating access to key ﬁnancing mechanisms such as the

Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), HUD Section 202, tax-exempt Private Activity Bonds

Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

(PABs), and FHA Section 221(d)(4) loans. This strategic approach positions our cooperative eﬀorts

not only as a timely response to Ukraine’s immediate needs but also as a viable, scalable solution

for addressing persistent housing challenges in the United States.

North Star Group’s primary role is to deliver tailored expertise in cost-eﬃcient, technologically

advanced modular solutions that directly support the objectives of Zoriana Butenko and her

team. Our immediate goal is to structure a concise initial contract, aimed at developing

comprehensive Requests for Proposals (RFPs) necessary for obtaining Ukrainian certiﬁcation and

approvals. These foundational RFPs will span architecture, structural engineering, systems

integration, electrical and mechanical engineering, software development, and energy

management, ensuring eﬃcient collaboration and swift implementation.

The proposed modular factory-build approach integrates advanced technologies to ensure rapid

assembly, outstanding quality, and enduring resilience. Our construction

methodologies—including embedded-joist Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) and integrated

smart-home technologies—are covered under provisional patent applications (patent applied for),

ensuring superior performance even under the most demanding conditions.

Ultimately, our collaboration with Zoriana Butenko and the Anti-crisis Oﬃce aims not only to

swiftly and eﬀectively address Ukraine’s immediate housing crisis but also to cultivate a

sustainable, long-term partnership. We hope this initial phase sets the stage for ongoing joint

eﬀorts to tackle similar housing challenges faced by unhoused populations in the United States.

We envision this collaboration as a signiﬁcant step toward establishing enduring solutions and

fostering mutual success.

Detailed information about our budget proposal can be found in Chapter 16, with a sample RFP

available in Appendix Chapter 19.

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

Table of Contents

Table of Contents............................................................................................................................................. 2

1. Important Disclaimer.................................................................................................................................... 4

Not an Oﬃcial Engineering/Architecture Service............................................................................. 4

Provisional Patent Reference................................................................................................................. 4

Local Code Adherence (DBN)................................................................................................................4

No Warranty................................................................................................................................................ 5

2. Executive Overview.....................................................................................................................................5

Key Advantages.........................................................................................................................................5

3. Housing & Energy Infrastructure Needs in Ukraine (2024–2025)................................................. 6

Housing Units Damaged & Rebuilding Plans.....................................................................................6

Power Grid State & Housing Resilience...............................................................................................7

4. Ukrainian Modular Home Manufacturers & SIP Firms........................................................................ 7

SIP Panel Ukraine (SIPPU) - Bila Tserkva............................................................................................. 7

Servus Ukraina - Drohobych...................................................................................................................7

SIP Atlas LLC...............................................................................................................................................8

Budmall.Center - Dnipro.......................................................................................................................... 8

EurHome - Kyiv...........................................................................................................................................8

5. Raw Material Prices & Local Supply Chains..........................................................................................8

Magnesium Oxide (MgO) Boards.......................................................................................................... 8

EPS & XPS Rigid Foam.............................................................................................................................9

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs).......................................................................................................... 9

Timber, Steel & Other Essentials........................................................................................................... 9

6. Cost Estimates (SIP vs. Volumetric Modular).......................................................................................10

On-Site SIP Construction....................................................................................................................... 10

Factory-Built Volumetric Modules........................................................................................................10

Per Square Foot Comparison................................................................................................................ 11

7. Market Projection (10% of Ukraine's Modular Market)........................................................................11

8. U.S. Housing Demand Comparison.......................................................................................................12

9. Background & Context: Quadruplex Concept.................................................................................... 12

Typical Unit Layout...................................................................................................................................13

Volumetric vs. Panelized Approaches................................................................................................ 14

10. Structural Engineering & Embedded SIP Panels.............................................................................. 15

Rationale for Embedded Reinforcement............................................................................................15

Structural Analysis of Embedded-Joist System............................................................................... 16

Addressing Ukrainian Code (DBN)......................................................................................................16

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

Connection Details & Foundation Compatibility..............................................................................17

11. Architectural Coordination & Interior Considerations.......................................................................17

Layout & Circulation................................................................................................................................ 18

Exterior Design & Finishes.....................................................................................................................18

Interior Speciﬁcations............................................................................................................................. 18

Cultural Adaptations................................................................................................................................18

12. Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing (MEP) Systems...........................................................................19

Plumbing Manifolds & Harnesses........................................................................................................19

Electrical Harnesses & Load-Shedding..............................................................................................19

HVAC Systems (Heat Pump, Backup)................................................................................................20

Generator & Resilient Power................................................................................................................20

Smart Home & Energy Management.................................................................................................. 21

13. Smart Home & Integrated Systems...................................................................................................... 21

Energy Management Dashboard.........................................................................................................21

Building Management System..............................................................................................................21

Communication Infrastructure............................................................................................................. 22

Food Production Integration................................................................................................................22

Community & Economic Features...................................................................................................... 22

Digital Infrastructure...............................................................................................................................22

Data Privacy & Security......................................................................................................................... 22

14. Volumetric vs. Panelized Production.................................................................................................. 23

Volumetric Production........................................................................................................................... 23

Panelized Production.............................................................................................................................24

15. Site Work, Foundations & Assembly...................................................................................................25

Site Preparation & Geotechnical Requirements............................................................................. 25

Foundation Systems...............................................................................................................................25

Assembly Sequence.............................................................................................................................. 26

Volumetric Assembly:..................................................................................................................... 26

Panelized Assembly:.......................................................................................................................26

16. North Star Group Technical Engagement (To Be Defined in Collaboration).................... 27

16.1 Project Scope and Mission...................................................................................... 27

16.2 Proposed Deliverables.............................................................................................27

16.3 Engagement Structure and Commercial Terms.......................................................28

17. Implementation Challenges & Risk Mitigation.................................................................................. 29

Regulatory Considerations...................................................................................................................29

Supply Chain Vulnerabilities................................................................................................................ 29

Technical Implementation.....................................................................................................................30

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

18. Conclusion................................................................................................................................................. 30

19. Appendix Example RFP.......................................................................................................................... 31

Request for Proposals (RFP) – Structural Engineering Services for Modular Aﬀordable

Housing Quadruplex (Kiev, Ukraine)...................................................................................................31

Introduction and Project Overview.............................................................................................................31

Scope of Work and Design Requirements.............................................................................................. 33

1. Foundation System............................................................................................................................. 33

2. Horizontal Structural System (Floor Cassettes)..........................................................................35

3. Module Connection Strategy...........................................................................................................37

4. Lifting and Transport Provisions..................................................................................................... 38

5. Structural Performance Criteria and Load Path..........................................................................40

6. Additional Design Considerations................................................................................................. 43

Deliverables.....................................................................................................................................................45

Proposal Submission Requirements..........................................................................................................47

Internal Notes:....................................................................................................................................... 49

LumberFoundationDiaphramC.py...................................................................................................... 49

1. Important Disclaimer

Not an Oﬃcial Engineering/Architecture Service

North Star Group (NSG) is providing this document for conceptual and informational purposes

only. We are not acting as a locally licensed architecture or engineering ﬁrm in Ukraine. All ﬁnal

design decisions must be veriﬁed, sealed, and approved by Ukrainian-certiﬁed professionals

familiar with DBN codes and local regulations.

Provisional Patent Reference

An approach embedding joists within SIPs to eliminate secondary subﬂoor or roof framing is

covered under a provisional patent owned by NSG. This does not guarantee local code

acceptance; detailed engineering and local approvals remain necessary.

Local Code Adherence (DBN)

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

Any provided load calculations, panel thicknesses, or methods for MEP pre-fabrication are

conceptual and must pass local code reviews. Oﬃcial sign-oﬀ from Ukrainian-licensed architects,

engineers, and authorities is essential for success.

No Warranty

NSG oﬀers no express or implied warranty about the suitability of these designs for speciﬁc site

conditions. We strongly recommend thorough geotechnical investigations, engineering

validations, and oﬃcial approvals before large-scale deployment.

2. Executive Overview

This proposal outlines an innovative approach to facilitate the rapid construction of

energy-eﬃcient quadruplex residential units for Ukraine's post-conﬂict rebuilding eﬀorts. Each

quadruplex comprises approximately 280 m² total (four apartments of ~70 m² each), designed

using advanced construction technologies that address both speed and resilience needs.

Our solution integrates:

● Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) with a provisionally patented embedded-joist system

● Pre-fabricated MEP modules including energy management systems

● Resilient power infrastructure with backup generation and load management

● IoT-enabled occupant control systems for energy optimization

Key Advantages

● Cost-Eﬀectiveness: SIP or modular construction methods can be 30–50% cheaper than

standard masonry in Ukraine, with potential for further cost reductions through local

manufacturing scale

● Assembly Speed: Up to 60% faster construction timeframes compared to traditional

methods, enabling quicker housing recovery

● Energy Resilience: Integrated 10–12 kW generators or optional micro-turbines with

advanced load-shedding systems ensure habitability during grid outages

● Superior Insulation: R-values of 30-40+ reduce heating and cooling loads by 40-60%

compared to typical Ukrainian construction

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

● Local Economic Beneﬁts: Emphasis on Ukrainian manufacturing creates jobs and builds

domestic capacity

● Adaptability: Core design principles can be applied to single-family homes, duplexes, or

mid-rise conﬁgurations with minimal modiﬁcation

Our approach fundamentally rethinks how to deliver housing in post-conﬂict areas by combining

high-performance building envelopes with integrated mechanical systems that maintain livability

during infrastructure disruptions.

3. Housing & Energy Infrastructure Needs in Ukraine

(2024–2025)

Housing Units Damaged & Rebuilding Plans

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has created an unprecedented housing crisis. By early 2025,

approximately 13% of Ukraine's housing stock has been damaged or destroyed, aﬀecting around

2.5 million households. Current estimates from multiple sources indicate that between 1.4–1.5

million homes require reconstruction or major repairs.

The Kyiv School of Economics (KSE) has assessed direct housing damage at approximately $59

billion USD, with 82% of losses concentrated in four regions: Donetsk, Luhansk, Kharkiv, and Kyiv.

Some communities have been particularly devastated – for example, Moshchun saw over 85% of

its buildings destroyed during early bombings.

To address this crisis, the Ukrainian government has coordinated with international partners to

establish comprehensive rebuilding programs:

● $7.4 billion has been budgeted for 2025 key recovery initiatives, with housing as a

primary focus

● The World Bank's HOPE project provides grants speciﬁcally for moderately damaged

dwellings

● The forthcoming National Housing Recovery Program will establish frameworks for

compensation and new construction

● Organizations including UNHCR (through its "Ukraine is Home" platform) are pioneering

scalable modular solutions

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

Power Grid State & Housing Resilience

Russia's systematic targeting of energy infrastructure has severely compromised Ukraine's power

grid. By 2024, approximately 50% of Ukraine's power generation capacity had been destroyed,

along with critical transmission and distribution infrastructure. This vulnerability has manifested as

widespread outages, particularly during peak winter demand periods.

In response, several adaptations have emerged:

● Over 1.2 million generators were imported by late 2023

● New housing designs increasingly incorporate backup power systems as standard

features

● Heat pumps, solar water heaters, and high-eﬃciency appliances have become priorities

● Micro-grid capabilities that can isolate from the main grid during disruptions are being

integrated into rebuilding plans

These challenges present an opportunity to "build back better" – designing homes that are not

only rebuilt quickly but are inherently more resilient and energy-eﬃcient than pre-war housing

stock. Each reconstructed home becomes a node of energy resilience rather than a point of

vulnerability.

4. Ukrainian Modular Home Manufacturers & SIP Firms

Ukraine has developed a robust ecosystem of companies oﬀering SIP and modular construction,

which has expanded signiﬁcantly in response to the reconstruction demand. Key players include:

SIP Panel Ukraine (SIPPU) - Bila Tserkva

● Production capacity: 100,000+ m² of panels annually

● Specializes in OSB3/EPS sandwich panels with optional MgO facings

● Oﬀers comprehensive design-to-assembly services

● Provides bulk procurement discounts of 12-15% on large orders

Servus Ukraina - Drohobych

● One of Ukraine's largest SIP manufacturers

● Delivers turnkey buildings within 45–90 days from order

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● Employs Canadian manufacturing methods and equipment

● Capacity for 80-100 housing units monthly

SIP Atlas LLC

● Portfolio of over 700 energy-eﬃcient homes completed

● Operates modern SIP manufacturing facility

● Oﬀers both kit sales and direct construction services

● Strong domestic supply chain relationships

Budmall.Center - Dnipro

● Cluster of coordinated wood construction factories

● Specializes in rapid deployment (30 days for 50–100 m² structures)

● Experience with small village-scale projects

● Active contracts with NGOs and recovery organizations

EurHome - Kyiv

● Produces Canadian-speciﬁcation SIP panels

● Various standardized home kit packages available

● Strong export experience and international certiﬁcations

● Testing facilities for thermal and structural performance

Additional manufacturers including UkrPanel, Bauen Haus, and SuperSIP are expanding

production capacity. Collectively, these ﬁrms produce tens of thousands of SIP panels or modular

units annually, often collaborating with humanitarian organizations and government rebuilding

initiatives despite ongoing supply chain challenges.

5. Raw Material Prices & Local Supply Chains

Magnesium Oxide (MgO) Boards

Fire-resistant MgO boards serve as alternatives to OSB in SIP production, particularly for

multi-family applications where enhanced ﬁre ratings are required. Current market prices range

from ₴1,100–1,800 per 1.2×2.4 m sheet ($30–50 USD), varying by thickness and quality grade.

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

Ukraine imports most MgO boards from China, making pricing susceptible to global shipping

ﬂuctuations and exchange rates. However, several Ukrainian companies are developing domestic

manufacturing capacity that could stabilize supply and pricing by late 2025.

EPS & XPS Rigid Foam

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is the primary core material for cost-eﬀective SIPs, with current costs

ranging from ₴1,700–2,500 per cubic meter ($45–65 USD) for standard density (15-18 kg/m³)

material. Premium graphite-infused EPS, which oﬀers enhanced thermal performance, commands

approximately ₴3,500/m³ ($90 USD).

Extruded polystyrene (XPS) provides superior moisture resistance and structural properties but at

higher cost: ₴4,000–5,000/m³ ($110–130 USD). Factories placing bulk orders typically receive

10–15% discounts, with further economies possible as Ukrainian foam production capacity

expands.

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)

Finished SIPs from Ukrainian manufacturers typically cost ₴420–1,100/m² ($11–30/m²), with pricing

primarily determined by:

● Panel thickness (100mm to 220mm)

● Facing material (OSB vs. MgO)

● Core material (standard EPS vs. graphite-enhanced or XPS)

● Connection system speciﬁcations

As a reference point, a standard SIP panel 160 mm thick currently costs approximately ₴3,125 per

1.25×2.8 m piece (₴890/m² or ~$24/m²). Bulk orders over 1,000 m² typically receive discounts of

12-18%, especially when manufacturers have established direct supply arrangements for core

materials.

Timber, Steel & Other Essentials

Kiln-dried pine, essential for structural components, ranges from ₴8,000–10,000 per cubic meter

($220–280 USD). Structural steel costs approximately $1.00–1.20/kg, while cement averages ₴110

per 50 kg bag ($3 USD).

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

Windows and doors represent signiﬁcant cost components, with double-glazed, energy-eﬃcient

windows averaging $100 USD for a standard 1×1 m unit. However, many reconstruction projects

beneﬁt from donated or at-cost ﬁxtures through international partnerships and NGO programs.

Ukraine's domestic supply chains continue to mature as reconstruction demand grows.

Coordinated bulk procurement, emerging local manufacturing of core materials, and international

donor funding all contribute to gradually decreasing raw material costs, with potential for 5-8%

annual reductions as economies of scale improve.

6. Cost Estimates (SIP vs. Volumetric Modular)

On-Site SIP Construction

SIP construction approaches in Ukraine typically achieve total costs of approximately $250/m² for

basic builds, which include:

● Foundation systems

● Structural shell

● Roof assembly

● Exterior ﬁnishing

● Basic MEP rough-ins

More comprehensive ﬁnishes, including complete interior treatments, ﬁxtures, and advanced

systems, raise costs to approximately $350/m². This compares favorably to conventional brick or

concrete construction methods, which typically range from $500–600/m² for comparable

speciﬁcations.

Some domestic SIP providers advertise promotional rates as low as $150–200/m² for partial

shells, though these often exclude key components necessary for occupancy.

Factory-Built Volumetric Modules

Factory-assembled volumetric modules typically range from $300–500/m², reﬂecting:

● Higher labor intensity in controlled factory environments

● More complete ﬁnishing prior to transport

● Transportation and specialty crane costs

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

● Reduced on-site labor requirements

This approach signiﬁcantly accelerates ﬁnal assembly timeframes, potentially reducing overall

project duration by 40-60%. Budmall Center's recent project in Moshchun reported 37 m²

modules costing approximately $10,000 in materials ($270/m²), excluding factory labor costs.

Per Square Foot Comparison

For international context, these cost ﬁgures translate to $23–33/ft² for basic SIP construction and

$37–46/ft² for turnkey modular solutions, versus $50–60/ft² for traditional masonry construction.

With anticipated scaling eﬃciencies and local production expansion, SIP or modular approaches

could potentially drop below $200/m² ($19/ft²) for standard conﬁgurations.

The National Recovery Plan explicitly supports investment in large-scale factories that

standardize designs and minimize waste, creating a favorable policy environment for modular

expansion.

7. Market Projection (10% of Ukraine's Modular Market)

Ukraine's unprecedented rebuilding needs present a substantial market opportunity. With over 1.4

million homes requiring reconstruction, and modular/SIP methods gaining acceptance, we project

the modular construction segment could represent 25-35% of all rebuilding activity.

Based on reconstruction funding projections from the World Bank, EU, and Ukrainian government

sources, housing reconstruction will likely mobilize $12-15 billion annually over the next decade. If

modular methods capture 30% of this investment, the annual modular market value would reach

$3.6-4.5 billion.

Securing a 10% share of this modular market segment would represent:

● $360-450 million in annual revenue

● Approximately 5,000-7,000 housing units annually

● Potential for 10-15% proﬁt margins ($36-67.5 million)

Achieving this market position would require:

● Establishing or partnering with 2-3 strategically located Ukrainian factories

● Developing robust supply chains for core materials (OSB, EPS, lumber)

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

● Building relationships with key municipal reconstruction authorities

● Creating standardized designs that meet various regional needs

● Training local assembly teams in SIP and modular methodologies

This projection aligns with the Ukrainian government's stated preference for reconstruction

approaches that build domestic capacity, create local jobs, and leave behind sustainable

industries rather than temporary foreign interventions.

8. U.S. Housing Demand Comparison

To provide comparative context, it's informative to examine how Ukraine's reconstruction needs

relate to the U.S. housing market:

● The U.S. currently faces a housing shortage estimated at 3.7–4.5 million units

● Annual U.S. housing starts total approximately 1.3–1.4 million units

● Modular construction represents only 5–7% of U.S. residential construction

Ukraine's war-driven housing loss (1.4+ million homes) is roughly equivalent to the entire annual

U.S. housing production. However, several key diﬀerences inﬂuence recovery approaches:

1. Labor Cost Diﬀerential: Ukrainian construction labor costs are approximately 15-20% of

U.S. equivalents, signiﬁcantly altering the economics of various building methods

2. Building Code Structure: Ukraine's DBN building codes allow more ﬂexibility in innovative

construction approaches compared to the highly fragmented U.S. code landscape

3. Land Availability Patterns: Ukraine's rebuilding often occurs on previously developed

plots with existing infrastructure connections, unlike U.S. greenﬁeld development

4. Financing Mechanisms: While the U.S. has sophisticated private mortgage systems,

Ukraine's reconstruction relies heavily on government and international funding

5. Energy Resilience Requirements: Ukraine's vulnerable grid creates stronger incentives

for self-suﬃcient housing than typical U.S. market demands

Despite these diﬀerences, lessons from U.S. modular construction experiences—particularly in

standardization, quality control, and ﬁnancing mechanisms—can inform Ukraine's large-scale

modular deployment strategies while adapting to local conditions.

9. Background & Context: Quadruplex Concept

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

Our proposal centers on a quadruplex conﬁguration as an exemplar model, though the core

technologies and approaches can be adapted to various building typologies. Each quadruplex

features:

● Four ~70 m² apartments (280 m² total building footprint)

● Two-level organization (two units per ﬂoor)

● Shared walls between units for thermal eﬃciency and cost reduction

● Common utility cores for simpliﬁed MEP distribution

● Standardized dimensions optimized for both SIP panel sizes and transportation

constraints

Typical Unit Layout

Each apartment typically includes:

● Open-concept living/kitchen/dining area (25-30 m²)

● One or two bedrooms (12-15 m² each)

● Full bathroom with shower (4-5 m²)

● Utility closet housing mechanical systems (3-4 m²)

● Optional balcony or covered entry (design dependent)

● We expect the layout to change to meet Ukrainian needs - the example is for USA

aﬀordable housing.

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

Volumetric vs. Panelized Approaches

Our solution accommodates both volumetric (module-based) and panelized (component-based)

manufacturing approaches, each with distinct advantages:

Volumetric modules arrive fully formed from the factory, with interior ﬁnishes, ﬁxtures, and

systems pre-installed. This approach oﬀers:

● Minimized on-site labor requirements

● Consistent quality through factory production

● Reduced weather exposure during construction

● Fastest possible on-site assembly timeframes

However, volumetric designs must navigate transportation constraints (width restrictions, road

quality) and require specialized cranes for placement.

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

Volumetric Modules Craned into Place

Panelized SIP packages deliver ﬂat-packed wall, ﬂoor, and roof components that are assembled

on-site. This methodology provides:

● Greater ﬂexibility for sites with access limitations

● Reduced transportation costs and complexity

● Adaptability to various foundation systems

● Lower capital investment requirements for manufacturing

Both approaches integrate seamlessly with our embedded-joist SIP system (covered by

provisional patent), which eliminates separate subﬂoor or roof framing steps and enhances

thermal performance by reducing thermal bridging.

10. Structural Engineering & Embedded SIP Panels

Rationale for Embedded Reinforcement

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

Traditional SIP construction typically requires secondary framing members (joists, rafters) for

ﬂoors and roofs to achieve necessary spanning capabilities. Our innovative embedded-joist

approach integrates these structural members directly within the SIP panel's foam core during

manufacturing, creating essentially a series of integrated I-joists within each panel.

This technique oﬀers multiple advantages:

● Material Eﬃciency: Reduces total lumber or steel usage by 15-25% compared to

conventional approaches

● Labor Reduction: Eliminates separate framing operations by creating ready-to-install

structural cassettes

● Thermal Performance: Minimizes thermal bridging that occurs with traditional framing

● Assembly Speed: Enables rapid placement of large, structurally-complete ﬂoor or roof

sections

● Simpliﬁed Connections: Creates predictable, engineered connection points between

major assemblies

Structural Analysis of Embedded-Joist System

Our structural analysis (detailed in Appendix A) demonstrates that 8"×8" (nominal) wood members

embedded within SIP ﬂoor cassettes provide substantial load-carrying capacity while meeting

deﬂection criteria. For a standard 25-foot module span:

● Conﬁguration with 4 piers per module (8.33-foot spans) achieves:

○ Maximum deﬂection of 0.177 inches (well within L/240 residential standard)

○ Maximum stress of 82.0 psi (only 7.5% of allowable 1,100 psi)

○ Deﬂection ratio of 0.42 (L/240), providing a 2.4× safety factor

This analysis conﬁrms that our wood-based embedded system performs equivalent to more

expensive steel options for two-story applications, while oﬀering better thermal properties and

easier site adaptability.

Addressing Ukrainian Code (DBN)

Ukrainian building codes (DBN) contain speciﬁc provisions for innovative construction systems

that must be addressed:

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

● Fire Resistance: For multi-family applications, additional ﬁre-rated layers (gypsum board,

mineral wool, or intumescent coatings) will be integrated to meet Category II ﬁre

resistance requirements

● Seismic Considerations: Panel connections in seismically active regions (particularly

southwestern Ukraine) will incorporate additional ductile fastening systems

● Snow Loads: Roof designs account for region-speciﬁc snow loads ranging from 70-180

kg/m² depending on location

● Thermal Performance: All assemblies exceed minimum R-value requirements by 25-40%

to enhance resilience during energy disruptions

All designs will require review and certiﬁcation by Ukrainian-licensed structural engineers familiar

with both SIP technology and DBN compliance pathways.

Connection Details & Foundation Compatibility

Panel connections employ a combination of mechanical fasteners and structural adhesives to

ensure system rigidity and longevity:

● Panel-to-panel connections utilize spline systems with structural screws at 150-200mm

centers

● Floor-to-wall connections incorporate steel angles or embedded connectors depending

on loads

● Wall-to-roof connections use hurricane ties or equivalent Ukrainian approved fasteners

While the system can adapt to various foundation types, our default recommendation for

two-story quadruplex conﬁgurations is a pier foundation system. This approach:

● Reduces site work requirements

● Minimizes excavation needs

● Allows for easier leveling on uneven terrain

● Accommodates various soil conditions with minimal redesign

A typical quadruplex requires 7 piers per 50-foot length (including one shared pier at the module

junction), with pier spacing of approximately 8.33 feet. Exact pier dimensions and reinforcement

will be determined based on site-speciﬁc geotechnical data.

11. Architectural Coordination & Interior Considerations

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Successful implementation requires thorough coordination with Ukrainian-licensed architects

who understand both local norms and modular construction principles. Key architectural

considerations include:

Layout & Circulation

● Ensuring appropriate emergency egress paths that meet DBN requirements

● Designing common areas (stairs, entryways) with maintenance and durability in mind

● Balancing privacy considerations with eﬃcient space utilization

● Accommodating cultural preferences for separate toilet and bathing facilities

Exterior Design & Finishes

● Climate-appropriate facade materials with 15+ year durability

● Options including ﬁber cement siding, brick veneer, or traditional stucco

● Material selections that align with regional architectural vernacular

● Window and door placement optimized for both energy performance and natural light

● Considerations for future exterior maintenance access

Interior Speciﬁcations

● Durable ﬂooring solutions appropriate for various climate zones

● Moisture-resistant materials in bathrooms and kitchens

● Low-VOC interior ﬁnishes for healthy indoor environments

● Sound insulation between units exceeding minimum code requirements

● Storage solutions aligned with Ukrainian household needs

Cultural Adaptations

Ukrainian living patterns diﬀer from Western norms in several ways that inﬂuence design:

● Greater emphasis on entry vestibules for transitional spaces

● Preference for enclosed kitchens in many regions

● Importance of balconies or outdoor spaces for personal gardens

● Storage requirements for preservation of home-grown food

● Accommodation for multi-generational living arrangements

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These considerations will be integrated through collaboration with local architectural partners,

ensuring designs that are both technically sound and culturally appropriate.

12. Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing (MEP) Systems

Our approach to MEP systems emphasizes:

1. Factory pre-fabrication to minimize ﬁeld labor

2. Energy resilience during grid disruptions

3. Simpliﬁed maintenance for long-term sustainability

4. Occupant control over energy consumption

Plumbing Manifolds & Harnesses

Traditional plumbing installations require extensive on-site labor and coordination between

trades. Our system utilizes pre-assembled manifold-based distribution:

● Factory-assembled plumbing manifolds consolidate hot water, cold water, and drain lines

● Pre-pressurized and tested components reduce on-site leakage risks

● Standardized "wet wall" or utility chase designs minimize variation

● Quick-connect ﬁttings for ﬁxtures accelerate ﬁnal installation

● Integrated check valves and isolation points simplify maintenance

This approach reduces on-site plumbing labor by approximately 60% while improving quality

control and system longevity.

Electrical Harnesses & Load-Shedding

Our electrical strategy incorporates advanced load management to maintain critical functions

during power disruptions:

● Pre-fabricated wiring harnesses with standardized connector systems

● Smart load-shedding subpanels that automatically prioritize essential circuits

● Tiered power management: Critical (refrigeration, communications), Important (limited

lighting, select outlets), and Non-essential (most appliances)

● User-conﬁgurable priorities through simple interface

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● Real-time consumption monitoring to optimize generator runtime

This system ensures that limited backup power is allocated eﬃciently, maintaining essential

services while extending fuel supplies during extended outages.

HVAC Systems (Heat Pump, Backup)

The primary heating and cooling system utilizes high-eﬃciency air-source heat pumps:

● Mini-split or multi-split conﬁgurations depending on unit layout

● SCOP (Seasonal Coeﬃcient of Performance) ratings of 3.5+ for reduced energy

consumption

● Cold-climate models capable of operation to -25°C

● Automatic setback during power limitations

For extreme outage scenarios, each unit incorporates a backup heating solution:

● Finnish stoves with thermal mass storing 15-25kWh of heat energy

● Self-powered piezoelectric fans that harvest thermal energy for distribution

● Zero electrical requirement for operation once lit

● Cooking surface functionality for meal preparation during outages

● Multi-day heating capacity from a single ﬁring using locally available biomass

Generator & Resilient Power

Each quadruplex includes a comprehensive resilient power system sized for essential operations:

● 10–12 kW propane or natural gas generator with automatic transfer switch

● Alternatively, 5-8 kW micro-turbine for extended operation capabilities

● Shared generator serving all four units through the load management system

● Gray water micro-turbine system generating 100-150W continuous equivalent power

● Self-powered piezoelectric fans ensuring heat distribution without external power

● Remote monitoring and automated maintenance scheduling

● Optional integration with battery storage or solar PV where appropriate

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

This integrated approach represents a perfect balance between modern clean energy

technology and time-tested heating methods, ensuring habitability during extended grid outages

while maintaining optimal eﬃciency during normal operation.

Smart Home & Energy Management

Our design incorporates practical IoT technologies that enhance resilience and user experience:

● Multi-level dashboard system for residents, management, and maintenance

● Real-time energy consumption monitoring with historical comparison

● Anomaly detection and alerting (e.g., windows open with heat running)

● AI-powered recommendations for optimal appliance usage timing

● Gamiﬁcation of energy conservation with inter-unit friendly competition

● Automated detection of wasteful behaviors

● User-conﬁgurable priority settings for emergency power scenarios

These systems are designed with simplicity and resilience as primary goals, avoiding

over-complexity while providing meaningful functionality during both normal operation and crisis

periods.

13. Smart Home & Integrated Systems

Our design incorporates a comprehensive integration approach based on the "13 Pillars"

framework that creates a solution greater than the sum of its parts.

Energy Management Dashboard

● Real-time display of electricity consumption by category

● Generator status monitoring (fuel level, runtime, maintenance needs)

● Automated load-shedding notiﬁcations and override capabilities

● Historical consumption trends for occupant education

● Simple smartphone interface or wall-mounted display

Building Management System

● Temperature and humidity monitoring in key zones

● Carbon monoxide and smoke detection integrated with alarms

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● Water leak detection at critical points

● Motion detection for security (particularly during vacancy periods)

● Remote access for property managers or maintenance staﬀ

Communication Infrastructure

● Local mesh networks that maintain building-level communications during internet outages

● Emergency information broadcasting capability

● Shared WiFi infrastructure with appropriate security partitioning

● Cell signal boosting where necessary for reliable communication

● Economical shared internet subscription divided among units

Food Production Integration

● Edible rain gardens for stormwater management and food production

● Companion planting techniques to maximize yields with minimal maintenance

● Vertical growing systems for balconies and common areas

● Finnish stoves doubling as cooking surfaces during emergencies

● Rainwater harvesting systems supporting food production

Community & Economic Features

● Shared resource management systems for maintenance equipment

● Economic incentive structures encouraging conservation

● Community governance models for shared spaces

● Low-density planning creating room for community gardens

● Progressive beautiﬁcation through growth of perennial plants and trees

Digital Infrastructure

● Centralized building management system with hierarchical access controls

● Dedicated low-power mesh network for reliable device communication

● Edge computing nodes for rapid response even during internet outages

● Secure API integration with third-party systems

● Remote management capabilities for property managers

Data Privacy & Security

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

All systems adhere to Ukrainian data protection requirements with:

● Local data storage for critical functions

● Encrypted communications

● User-conﬁgurable privacy settings

● Anonymous aggregation of consumption data for building management

These integrated systems are designed with simplicity and resilience as primary goals, avoiding

over-complexity while providing meaningful functionality during both normal operation and crisis

periods. The cohesive approach ensures that each system enhances the others, creating a living

environment that becomes more valuable and beautiful over time.

14. Volumetric vs. Panelized Production

Either volumetric or panelized manufacturing approaches can be implemented based on local

conditions and available facilities. Each has distinct implications for production, logistics, and

assembly:

Volumetric Production

Volumetric manufacturing requires:

● Factory facilities with overhead cranes (minimum 5-ton capacity)

● Assembly jigs for precise dimensional control

● Multiple work stations for sequential construction phases

● Finishing areas for interior completions

● Quality control processes for fully assembled units

Transportation considerations include:

● Maximum module widths of 3.5-4.5m depending on route

● Height restrictions for bridges and tunnels

● Special permits for oversized loads

● Route surveys for challenging access points

● Heavy lifting equipment at the installation site (typically 100-ton mobile crane)

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

Beneﬁts include:

● Highest percentage of factory completion (80-90%)

● Minimal on-site interior work

● Fastest on-site assembly timeframes

● Weather-independent production

Panelized Production

Panelized SIP manufacturing requires:

● CNC cutting equipment for precise panel dimensions

● Lamination presses for panel assembly

● Quality control for structural connections

● Packaging systems for weather protection

● Pre-cutting of service penetrations

Transportation advantages include:

● Standard truck compatibility without special permits

● Higher density shipping (more living area per truck)

● Reduced shipping costs, particularly for longer distances

● Accessibility to sites with limited crane capacity

On-site work includes:

● Panel assembly with mechanical fasteners and adhesives

● Installation of pre-fabricated MEP components

● Interior ﬁnishing (though some components can be pre-ﬁnished)

● Final system connections and commissioning

The optimal approach depends on:

1. Available manufacturing facilities in proximity to the building site

2. Transportation infrastructure between factory and site

3. Local labor availability and skill levels

4. Project scale and timeline requirements

5. Weather conditions during the anticipated construction season

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

For initial deployment, partnering with existing Ukrainian SIP manufacturers for panelized

production likely oﬀers the fastest implementation path, while developing volumetric capabilities

could be a second-phase strategy for larger-scale deployment.

15. Site Work, Foundations & Assembly

Site Preparation & Geotechnical Requirements

Proper site assessment is critical for successful implementation:

● Comprehensive geotechnical investigation to determine:

○ Soil bearing capacity (critical for pier design)

○ Frost penetration depth (ranging from 0.8-1.2m in Ukraine)

○ Groundwater conditions and drainage requirements

○ Potential contamination in previously developed areas

● Site preparation typically includes:

○ Clearing and minimal grading (advantage of pier foundations is reduced

earthwork)

○ Erosion control measures as required by local regulations

○ Temporary access improvements if needed for delivery vehicles

○ Utility connection preparation

Foundation Systems

While our approach can adapt to various foundation types, the recommended pier foundation

system for quadruplex conﬁgurations oﬀers several advantages:

● Reduced site disturbance compared to full excavation

● Minimized concrete usage (typically 30-50% less than slab foundations)

● Improved thermal isolation from ground conditions

● Simpliﬁed utility routing beneath the structure

● Adaptation to various soil and slope conditions

Based on our structural analysis of a standard 50-foot building length (two 25-foot modules):

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Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

● Optimal conﬁguration: 7 total piers (4 piers per module with a shared central pier)

● Pier spacing: 8.33 feet center-to-center

● Typical pier diameter: 400-600mm depending on loads and soil conditions

● Frost protection: Piers must extend below frost line (typically 0.8-1.2m in Ukraine)

Each pier is topped with appropriate connectors to secure the embedded joist system, with

provision for leveling adjustments to accommodate site irregularities.

Assembly Sequence

The construction sequence varies between volumetric and panelized approaches:

Volumetric Assembly:

1. Foundation piers installation and curing

2. Placement of connection hardware and leveling

3. Crane positioning and module delivery coordination

4. Sequential placement of modules (typically 1-2 days for a quadruplex)

5. Module-to-module connections and sealing

6. Utility hookups to pre-installed building systems

7. Exterior ﬁnish completion at module joints

8. Testing and commissioning of integrated systems

Panelized Assembly:

1. Foundation piers installation and curing

2. Installation of sill plates and connection hardware

3. Placement of ﬁrst-ﬂoor SIP ﬂoor cassettes with embedded joists

4. First-ﬂoor wall panel erection and securing

5. Second-ﬂoor ﬂoor cassette installation

6. Second-ﬂoor wall panel erection

7. Roof cassette installation and weatherprooﬁng

8. MEP rough-in using pre-fabricated components

9. Interior and exterior ﬁnishing

10. Systems commissioning and testing

Typical assembly timeframes for a quadruplex:

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● Volumetric approach: 2-3 weeks from foundation completion to occupancy

● Panelized approach: 6-8 weeks from foundation completion to occupancy

Both methods represent signiﬁcant time savings compared to conventional construction, which

would typically require 6-9 months for a similar structure.

16. North Star Group Technical Engagement (To Be Deﬁned

in Collaboration)

16.1 Project Scope and Mission

North Star Group (NSG) is committed to supporting Ukraine’s post-conﬂict reconstruction by

providing technical expertise, design leadership, and implementation guidance for modular,

energy-eﬃcient housing. Our goal is to enable the rapid deployment of high-performance

quadruplex housing units that combine sustainable building practices with resilient, decentralized

power systems.

This engagement is intended to be collaborative and adaptable, tailored to the needs of

Ukrainian stakeholders and grounded in shared values of speed, quality, and long-term

autonomy.

16.2 Proposed Deliverables

North Star Group anticipates contributing the following to the project, subject to reﬁnement

based on partner needs and available resources:

1. Technical Documentation and Implementation Support:

● Drafting of Request for Proposals (RFPs) for:

○ Architectural services compliant with DBN (Ukrainian Building Codes)

○ Structural engineering with embedded-joist SIP speciﬁcations

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○ Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) design with resilience features

○ Local manufacturing partnerships and production speciﬁcations

○ Site preparation and modular assembly procedures

2. Implementation Protocols:

● Ukrainian SIP code compliance pathways and documentation

● Quality assurance frameworks for both factory-built elements and on-site assembly

● Connection and assembly detailing for factory-integrated systems

● Performance speciﬁcations for energy, heating, and envelope systems

These materials will be designed for knowledge transfer and scalable local execution — with

the goal of empowering Ukrainian teams to continue implementation independently.

16.3 Engagement Structure and Commercial Terms

The structure of this engagement — including scope, roles, intellectual property licensing (if

applicable), and ﬁnancial terms — will be discussed and developed jointly with project

stakeholders.

North Star Group is open to a range of partnership structures, including but not limited to:

● Fixed-fee consulting or technical support

● Licensing of provisional patents or design frameworks

● Joint ventures for manufacturing or export

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● Grant-funded collaboration with local or international sponsors

Our intent is to be ﬂexible, transparent, and mission-aligned — focused on delivering

real-world solutions that meet Ukraine’s urgent needs while also establishing a

foundation for long-term collaboration.

Let me know if you'd like this in PDF or HTML format to drop into your proposal, or if you’d like

this version adapted for a pitch deck or executive brief.

17. Implementation Challenges & Risk Mitigation

While our approach oﬀers signiﬁcant advantages, several challenges must be addressed:

Regulatory Considerations

● Building Code Approval: While DBN codes permit innovative systems, local interpretation

varies. We will:

○ Engage early with approval authorities

○ Provide comprehensive testing documentation

○ Develop standard details that address common concerns

○ Create a compliance pathway document speciﬁcally for modular systems

● Permit Process Education: Many local authorities have limited experience with modular

or SIP systems, requiring:

○ Educational materials for code oﬃcials

○ Precedent documentation from successful implementations

○ Clear communication of equivalence to traditional methods

Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

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● Material Availability: Certain components may face periodic shortages due to

reconstruction demand:

○ Develop material forecasting systems and maintain strategic reserves

○ Identify alternative suppliers and material substitutions

○ Work with multiple manufacturers to reduce dependency risks

● Transport Limitations: Delivery logistics can be compromised by infrastructure damage:

○ Conduct thorough route surveys and maintain contingency routes

○ Develop assembly methods adaptable to smaller component sizes when needed

○ Establish regional staging areas to minimize long-distance transportation

Technical Implementation

● Connection System Reliability: The interface between prefabricated components is

critical:

○ Develop redundant connection methods with multiple fastening systems

○ Create detailed quality control processes for critical connections

○ Implement ﬁeld veriﬁcation protocols for key structural elements

● MEP Integration Complexity: Coordinating pre-fabricated systems requires precision:

○ Use BIM (Building Information Modeling) for clash detection

○ Develop standardized tolerance guidelines for all interconnections

○ Create simple ﬁeld-veriﬁcation methods for assembly teams

● Partnerships: Collaborate with Ukrainian manufacturers familiar with local conditions

18. Conclusion

Our integrated quadruplex modular housing solution addresses Ukraine's urgent reconstruction

needs through an innovative combination of advanced building systems and resilient

infrastructure. By leveraging Structural Insulated Panels with embedded joists, prefabricated MEP

systems, and integrated power resilience features, this approach delivers housing that is:

● Faster to construct: 40-60% reduction in construction timeframes

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● More aﬀordable: 20-35% cost savings compared to traditional methods

● Energy eﬃcient: 30-50% reduced consumption for heating and cooling

● Resilient during infrastructure disruptions: Maintained habitability during outages

● Scalable for large-scale implementation: Adaptable to various factory capabilities

● Supportive of local economic development: Utilizing Ukrainian manufacturing capacity

The proposed system balances immediate recovery needs with long-term sustainability, creating

housing stock that will remain energy-eﬃcient and durable for decades. The quadruplex format

eﬃciently serves multiple families while maintaining individual unit identity, and the core

technologies can be adapted to various building types from single-family homes to mid-rise

structures.

North Star Group stands ready to provide conceptual support, technical guidance, and

implementation assistance throughout this process. While all ﬁnal design decisions must be

veriﬁed and approved by Ukrainian-licensed professionals familiar with local codes and

conditions, our team oﬀers expertise in modular system integration, SIP technology, and resilient

infrastructure that can accelerate Ukraine's housing recovery eﬀorts.

19. Appendix Example RFP

Request for Proposals (RFP) – Structural Engineering Services for Modular

Aﬀordable Housing Quadruplex (Kiev, Ukraine)

Introduction and Project Overview

Project Background: We are seeking proposals from qualiﬁed structural engineers licensed in

Ukraine to design the structural system for a modular aﬀordable housing project. The project

consists of a two-story quadruplex (four apartments in one building) constructed using

volumetric modular units. Each apartment is formed by joining two factory-fabricated modules

(each approximately 25 ft × 16 ft), resulting in apartments about 50 ft in length. Two apartments

are arranged per ﬂoor, for a total of four units in the building. This modular approach aims to

achieve rapid construction, cost eﬃciency, and high energy eﬃciency in a cold climate. The

design will leverage 8″×8″ timber framing and Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) with

embedded joists, creating structural modules that are lightweight yet robust.

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Climate and Site Conditions: The structural design must be optimized for cold climates and

compliant with Ukrainian building codes for the Kiev region. Design parameters should use Kiev’s

climate data as a reference for minimum requirements: for example, a frost depth of

approximately 1.2 m (4 ft) should be assumed for foundation design

sheltercluster.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com

sheltercluster.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com , a ground snow load on the order of 1.55 kPa (155

kg/m²) jica.go.jp , and basic wind pressure of about 0.37 kPa (equivalent to a 3-sec gust wind

speed ~30 m/s at 10 m height) jica.go.jp

. Seismic considerations for the Kiev region (moderate seismic zone per DBN В.1.1-12) must also

be incorporated. The goal is a safe, durable structure that meets all DBN (State Building Norms

of Ukraine) requirements for loads, stability, and frost protection, while using eﬃcient modular

construction techniques.

Modular Structural System: Each module’s structure will consist of an 8″×8″ timber perimeter

frame and SIP panels that integrate structure and insulation. Floors and roofs will be built as

joist-embedded SIP panels, and walls will utilize timber framing combined with SIP sheathing for

insulation. Modules will be designed for easy connection both horizontally (when joining two

modules to form a larger apartment) and vertically (when stacking modules for a two-story

building). All connections, foundation interface, and structural components must be designed for

simplicity and constructability, using materials and skills readily available to Ukrainian

contractors. Figure 1 shows a conceptual rendering of a two-story modular quadruplex using the

speciﬁed system.

Figure 1: Two-story modular quadruplex housing concept (four apartments in one building, two at

ground level and two above) constructed from volumetric modules. Each module uses an 8″×8″

timber frame with integrated SIP panels, enabling rapid construction and high energy eﬃciency.

The embedded-SIP design minimizes material usage while maintaining structural strength

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Scope of Work and Design Requirements

The scope of services includes complete structural engineering design for the modular units and

the assembled quadruplex building. The Engineer shall develop a structural design package that

covers the following key elements:

1. Foundation System

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Design a foundation system suitable for the modular units, focusing on precast concrete piers for

speed and economy:

● Precast Pier Design: Develop a pier foundation plan using precast concrete piers or

footings that can support the modular building in cold climates. Piers must either extend

below the frost line or otherwise protect against frost heave (e.g., with insulation) to

prevent movement

sheltercluster.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com . Assume a conservative soil bearing

capacity (e.g. on the order of 75–100 kPa or as low as 1500 psf) to accommodate typical

soils; specify the minimum required soil properties or improvements if soils are weaker.

The design should minimize excavation – shallow pad footings with frost protection or

buried piers to 1.2 m depth are acceptable strategies, provided they ensure stability

during freeze-thaw cycles.

● Pier Layout and Leveling: Determine the number and spacing of piers to adequately

support module loads (considering module corners and mid-span support as needed for

25 ft spans). Include a leveling mechanism or tolerance in the design – for example,

adjustable pier caps or shim spaces – to allow ﬁne leveling of modules during

installation. This will accommodate minor variations in pier height or settlement and

ensure modules sit plumb and level.

● Pier-to-Module Connection: Detail a robust connection between the 8″×8″ timber sill

(base perimeter beam) of each module and the supporting pier. The preferred concept is

a mortise-and-tenon style interface: for example, the top of the pier could have a

recessed pocket or grouted mortise that snugly ﬁts the 8″×8″ timber, preventing lateral

slippage. Provide steel anchor bolts or brackets that secure the timber to the concrete

pier (e.g. through-bolts or side plates embedded in the pier). The connection design

should resist uplift (wind/seismic) and lateral shear, not just gravity loads. Include a

moisture barrier (such as a bituminous membrane or sill gasket) between wood and

concrete to prevent moisture wicking into the timber. Additionally, consider steel

strapping or clips that tie the timber sill to the pier cap for extra uplift resistance, if

required by wind/seismic calculations. All connectors should be readily available or

manufacturable in Ukraine (galvanized steel hardware preferred for durability). The result

should be a standardized pier cap connection detail that can be repeated for all support

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points, allowing fast anchoring of modules to foundations on site.

2. Horizontal Structural System (Floor Cassettes)

Engineer the ﬂoor system of each module as a Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) ﬂoor cassette

with embedded joists, eliminating the need for separate joist framing or sub-ﬂoor structures. Key

requirements for the ﬂoor design include:

● Joists Embedded in SIP: The ﬂoor panel of each module will be a SIP consisting of top

and bottom skins with an insulating foam core, into which the ﬂoor joists are integrated.

The joists shall be full-depth embedded within the panel (i.e. the joist depth equals the

panel thickness). This design places the joists inside the SIP, so that the top of the joists is

ﬂush with the top skin and the bottom of joists ﬂush with bottom skin. By embedding joists

in the SIP, we eliminate secondary ﬂoor framing and achieve a structurally composite

panel

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ﬁle-4jnc8fsbnnvwxfxkeq2tra. This approach is expected to increase stiﬀness and span

capacity while using less material, as the SIP skins work in conjunction with the joists like

a composite T-beam system. The Engineer should determine the optimal joist size and

spacing to meet ﬂoor load requirements (e.g. L/240 deﬂection under live load) for a span

of ~16 ft width. Currently, it is assumed to use 8″ deep lumber joists (nominal 2×8 timber

or engineered wood members) arranged in pairs at 24″ on center spacing. “Doubled”

joists at 24″ o.c. means each primary rib in the panel consists of two 2× members

side-by-side, spaced ~24″ apart from the next pair. This is an initial assumption to be

veriﬁed; the engineer may adjust joist quantity or spacing for optimal performance.

● Facing/Sheathing Material: The SIP ﬂoor panels are expected to use Magnesium Oxide

(MgO) board skins on both top and bottom surfaces, as MgO oﬀers good structural

capacity, moisture/mold resistance, and ﬁre resistance. The top skin of MgO (or OSB as

alternate) will act as the walking surface or subﬂoor. If MgO board (likely ~20 mm thick) is

not deemed a suﬃcient or cost-eﬀective walking surface, the engineer should

recommend an alternative (such as a plywood or OSB structural skin with a thin leveling

topping or overlay for durability). The goal is to avoid a separate subﬂoor layer, so

whatever skin is used on the SIP serves directly as the base for the ﬁnished ﬂooring. The

bottom skin will enclose the panel from below and contribute to composite action.

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Connections or seams in the skins should be detailed to ensure a continuous diaphragm.

● Panel Composition and Insulation: Specify the composition of the SIP ﬂoor panel,

including foam core type (EPS or XPS insulation, etc.) and density/thickness required for

both structural performance and thermal insulation. The panel thickness will likely be

governed by the 8″ timber depth, but insulation and skin thickness should meet

applicable thermal code requirements for ﬂoors. Ensure the embedded joists do not

create excessive thermal bridging – e.g. the foam should encapsulate joists where

possible. The design should meet Ukrainian energy eﬃciency standards for ﬂoor

insulation.

● Edge Support and Load Transfer: Detail how ﬂoor panels are supported and connected

along their edges within a module and between modules. Each module’s ﬂoor panel will

bear on the 8″×8″ perimeter beams at the module edges (the timber frame that runs

along the outer boundary of the ﬂoor). The engineer should design the connection

between the ﬂoor SIP and these perimeter timbers (e.g. structural screws or brackets from

the joists or skins into the timber). The ends of the embedded joists likely rest on or are

attached to the end beams of the module frame. Verify that all panel edges and joist

reactions are properly supported by the frame to prevent any soft or unsupported zones,

especially at openings or cantilevers. When two modules are joined end-to-end to form a

50 ft apartment, their ﬂoor panels will meet at a joint. The design should include a

strategy for transferring loads across this module-to-module ﬂoor joint. For example, the

meeting edges of the ﬂoor SIPs could each have a rim beam or blocking, and be tied

together with screws or a spline, so that the ﬂoor can act as a single diaphragm across the

joint. Provide details for any required spline, splice plate, or fastening pattern at the

interface of two ﬂoor cassettes to ensure alignment and load transfer. The ﬂoor system as

a whole (when modules are connected) should act as a diaphragm to distribute lateral

loads to the vertical elements; the engineer shall verify the shear capacity of the

connected ﬂoor panels and design the joint detailing accordingly.

Figure 2: Cross-section schematic of a SIP ﬂoor panel with embedded joists. The ﬂoor panel

consists of top and bottom skins (e.g., MgO board) bonded to a rigid foam core, with wood joists

embedded full-depth in the foam. This integration of joists within the SIP eliminates the need for

separate ﬂoor framing members

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3. Module Connection Strategy

Develop a module-to-module connection system that ensures structural continuity and

weather-resistance when modules are joined to form the complete building. There are two

primary interfaces to consider: horizontal connections between adjacent modules (side by side

or end to end), and vertical connections between stacked modules. The design should facilitate

easy assembly on site (ideally with simple insertion and fastening), but also provide suﬃcient

strength for gravity, lateral, and uplift loads across the connections.

● Horizontal Connections (Module to Module): For connecting modules in plan (for

example, the joint between the two modules that form one apartment, or between

neighboring units, if any share a side wall), a mortise-and-spline connection using the

8″×8″ timber frames is envisioned. Each module’s perimeter frame should have integrated

slots or recesses that allow insertion of a spline or key that aligns the modules. For

instance, at the ﬂoor level, adjacent modules could each have a half-depth recess in their

8″×8″ sill beams; when pushed together a separate 8″×8″ timber spline (or steel tube of

similar dimension) can be inserted to lock them, eﬀectively creating a tongue-and-groove

or tenon connection. Similarly, vertical 8×8 posts at module corners could have alignment

dowels or plates. The engineer shall design these splines or interlocks to carry shear and

moment as needed between modules. In addition to the geometric ﬁt, include

mechanical fasteners to secure the connection – for example, timber modules could be

through-bolted at the spline interface, or lag screws driven at intervals to tie the splined

beams together. Also specify an appropriate sealant or gasket system along the mating

surfaces to ensure the joint is weather-tight (prevent water intrusion and air leakage at the

seam between modules). The horizontal connection strategy should be robust enough to

create essentially a continuous beam or wall out of two abutting modules, distributing

loads evenly. Provide details for all typical horizontal joints: e.g. ﬂoor beam to ﬂoor beam,

wall panel to wall panel, and roof to roof connections between modules. Fasteners should

be galvanized or otherwise suitable for exterior exposure, and the design should account

for construction tolerance (ease of ﬁtting modules together that might be slightly

out-of-plumb). If a spline key system is used, ensure there is a method to cinch modules

tightly together (such as screw clamps or ties) so that gaps are minimized before ﬁnal

bolting.

● Vertical Connections (Stacking): When modules are stacked (ground ﬂoor and second

ﬂoor), design the interface so that vertical loads are transferred directly and securely,

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and uplift or lateral forces are resisted. The stacking connection will likely occur at the

8″×8″ corner posts or perimeter beams of the modules. One approach is to use

matching timber splines or interlocking collar beams at the module corners: for

example, the top of the lower module’s corner post could have a milled recess and the

bottom of the upper module’s post a matching protrusion or a steel alignment pin; when

stacked, they nest together. The connection should then be ﬁxed with screws or bolts –

e.g. a steel plate or bracket that ties the two modules’ frame members from inside, or long

threaded rods that run from the upper to lower module anchoring them together. The

engineer should design connection hardware (steel plates, brackets, bolts, etc.) that can

carry the following: (a) Compression from the upper module (so that loads are distributed

into the lower module frame and into the piers without overstressing any SIP panels –

ensure timber posts or splines take the load); (b) Uplift tension under wind uplift or

seismic overturning (so the modules do not separate – consider hold-down anchors at

corners or along shear walls tying modules together); (c) Shear forces from lateral loads

(wind or earthquake) so that the upper module doesn’t slide relative to the lower – shear

keys or plates could be used at the corners or along mating wall panels). Additionally,

detail the weather seal at the horizontal joint between modules – e.g. a sill gasket or

ﬂashing between the roof of the lower module and ﬂoor of the upper module to prevent

water ingress at the interface. All vertical connection details must ﬁt within the

architectural constraints (ﬂoor-to-ﬂoor heights) and not protrude into occupied space

excessively. The connection design should allow stacking alignment to be achieved

easily by crane placement (perhaps with guide pins), and provide some tolerance for ﬁeld

adjustment (such as slotted holes in brackets). The outcome should be that the

assembled two-story structure behaves as a uniﬁed structural system, with all modules

tied together to act as one under loads.

4. Lifting and Transport Provisions

Because the modules will be fabricated oﬀ-site and transported to the construction site, the

structural design must incorporate features that enable safe lifting, handling, and transport of

the modules. The Engineer shall address the following:

● Lifting Points/Hooks: Identify and design the lifting points on the modules for hoisting by

crane and/or picking up with a forklift. Modules (25 ft × 16 ft) will weigh several tons each;

they must be lifted without damaging the structure or causing excessive deﬂection. The

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design should include embedded lifting hardware or attachment plates at key structural

points (likely along the 8″×8″ base frame or at designated lifting lug locations on the

perimeter). For example, steel plates could be concealed in the timber frame that can

accept shackles or crane hooks when needed. The lifting points should be positioned

such that the module’s center of gravity is evenly supported, preventing undue bending –

likely four lift points near the corners. Specify any reinforcement (blocking or steel)

needed in the SIP or timber at these points to carry the lifting forces. If forklift handling is

anticipated, the base frame should accommodate fork tines spacing (e.g. openings or a

continuous gap under the module) and be reinforced to prevent local crushing.

Crane-optimized lifting brackets that fold away or are removable after installation would

be ideal

ﬁle-4jnc8fsbnnvwxfxkeq2tra

. All lifting hardware must support the full weight with a safety factor (per relevant lifting

standards) and interface with commonly available lifting equipment.

● Transport Stiﬀness and Bracing: Evaluate the module’s structural integrity during

transport (when it is not yet connected to other modules or ﬁxed on foundations). Modules

may experience vibrations, braking forces, and lifting stress. If any module wall is

designed to be removable or has large openings (for the combined apartment layout),

ensure that temporary bracing is speciﬁed to keep the module square during transport.

For example, if the end wall between paired modules will be cut out on site, that wall

should remain in place or be temporarily braced until the module is set and connected, to

maintain rigidity. The engineer should provide a temporary bracing plan or

recommendations for transport (such as installing cross-braces or using the rigid

diaphragm action of ﬂoors/roofs to prevent racking). If the module has a free end that will

later be joined to another, consider adding a transport end-frame that can be removed or

disabled later, or design the SIP panels with enough shear strength to survive transport

loads. Clearly specify the maximum allowable accelerations or forces during transport and

ensure the design can resist those (e.g. a lateral inertial force of some percentage of

module weight for sudden stops, etc.).

● Module Rigidity and Deﬂection: The design should limit deﬂections when the module is

lifted from the ends or sides. Check the module for bending when lifted at the lift points

(like a beam spanning between crane picks). The ﬂoor cassette and 8×8 perimeter should

act together to support this. If necessary, incorporate steel strongbacks or a perimeter

frame that keeps the module from ﬂexing excessively during lift. These could be either

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permanent (hidden in the structure) or temporary attachments during lifting. The goal is

that the module can be hoisted without cracking ﬁnishes or cladding.

● Shipping Size/Weight Compliance: While not a primary structural issue, the engineer

should be aware of the module dimensions for transport. The base size (~25′×16′, ~8×5 m)

is within typical road transport with some oversize width considerations. Ensure no

structural additions cause the module to exceed transportable limits (height or width). If

any modular component is especially heavy (e.g. a concrete portion), consider its eﬀect

on transport and lifting. The overall design should remain as lightweight as possible

consistent with structural needs, to ease handling.

● Lifting Process Support: Provide any guidelines for the contractor regarding the lifting

sequence or orientation. For instance, modules might be lifted from the truck via crane at

speciﬁc points – label these points on the drawings. If speciﬁc lifting equipment (like a

spreader bar) is needed to avoid compression forces, note this in the design deliverables.

The structure should not rely on any non-structural elements (like cladding) for stability

during lift.

5. Structural Performance Criteria and Load Path

Ensure the design meets all required structural performance criteria for safety and serviceability,

including gravity loads, lateral loads (wind/seismic), and temperature eﬀects, with a clear and

reliable load path through the modular system into the foundations:

● Compliance with Codes (Loads and Materials): The engineering design must comply

with Ukrainian building codes (DBN and DSTU standards). Use DBN V.1.2-2:2006 (or

latest) for loads and eﬀects, and ensure the structure is designed for permanent, live,

snow, and wind loads relevant to Kiev. As noted, use a ground snow load ~1.5 kPa (or

the exact value from code maps for Kyiv) and wind load corresponding to ~0.37 kPa

pressure (which roughly equates to a basic wind speed of 100–120 km/h) as minimums

jica.go.jp . Seismic design should follow DBN B.1.1-12:2014 – while Kiev is not in a high

seismic zone, a minimum seismic lateral force (per local intensity level, likely equivalent to

seismic category I or II) should be applied. Material codes: design timber members per

DBN or Eurocode 5 standards for wood, and SIP panels per relevant guidelines (consider

them analogous to sandwich panels). Connections (bolts, plates) per Eurocode 3 or

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equivalent. Safety factors and load combinations per code.

● Vertical Load Path: Verify that all gravity loads (dead, live, snow) from the roof and upper

module are transferred through the module framing and connections to the foundation.

The 8″×8″ timber frame of each module will serve as the primary load-bearing structure.

For example, roof loads go into roof panels and perimeter beams, then down through

corner posts/walls of the module, into the ﬂoor frame, and down into the piers. Any

openings or module interfaces must be framed to carry loads around (lintels, headers as

needed). The engineer should produce framing plans and details showing how each

load is supported and traceable to a foundation point. Particular attention should be given

to the interface between modules: where one module’s ﬂoor meets another module’s wall

or where an opening exists, ensure there is a continuous post or load distribution

element. Column stacking: If posts in upper and lower modules do not align perfectly,

add blocking or headers to redistribute loads. The goal is a continuous load path from

roof to foundation, with no weak links at the module joints.

● Lateral Load Resistance: Design the system to resist wind and seismic forces in both

principal directions. Likely, the SIP wall panels (with timber framing) will act as shear walls

to resist lateral loads, and the ﬂoor/roof SIPs will act as diaphragms to distribute these

loads to shear walls. The engineer should identify which walls in the modules will be

designated shear-resisting elements (for example, external end walls, or central walls that

remain intact). If the internal partition between two joined modules is largely removed (per

the ﬂexible layout requirement), other walls must take the shear – possibly the exterior

side walls of the combined apartment or a core shear wall around stairs, etc. Analyze the

two-story structure as a whole for lateral stability: wind in the 50 ft length direction and

16+16 ft width direction, and seismic horizontal acceleration. Module connections play a

critical role: the horizontal connection between modules must transfer diaphragm shear

from one module’s ﬂoor to the next, and the vertical connections must transfer shear

between stories. Provide suﬃcient fastening (screws, plates, etc.) such that the

four-module assembly functions as a uniﬁed box under lateral loads, without individual

modules sliding or racking. Diaphragm Action: Ensure the ﬂoor and roof panels can act

as rigid or semi-rigid diaphragms – check that the module-to-module ﬂoor joint can

transfer shear (may need metal straps or tie plates across the joint line in addition to

spline). The roof panels of the upper modules can tie the top of the walls together for

diaphragm action at the roof level. All these measures should satisfy code drift limits for

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wind and seismic.

● Uplift and Overturning: In high wind, the modular building may experience uplift forces

(roof suction, overturning at foundations). The structural design must include uplift

connections – e.g., straps tying roof panels to walls, walls to ﬂoor, ﬂoor to foundation

piers – creating a continuous tie-down from roof to ground. The weight of the modules

plus positive attachment to piers should resist uplift greater than the code-required wind

uplift. Similarly, check overturning moments: the anchorage of the piers and the module

connections should provide enough hold-down resistance so that the structure stays

ﬁrmly attached even if, for example, one side of the roof is uplifted by wind. The

earlier-described steel strapping at pier connections and bolting of modules will

contribute here.

● Serviceability and Deﬂection: Verify that deﬂections under live load (for ﬂoors) and lateral

drift under wind are within acceptable limits. Floor deﬂection should be controlled (L/240

or better) for occupant comfort given the long spans. If the current joist-in-SIP scheme

does not meet this, the engineer should recommend solutions (such as closer joist

spacing, thicker skins, or adding a beam or partition for mid-span support). Lateral drift for

a two-story wood structure should likely not exceed H/300 or as per DBN, to avoid

damage to ﬁnishes. Also consider vibration serviceability of the ﬂoor panels since they are

long spans – the modular ﬂoor should have adequate damping or stiﬀness to prevent

bouncy feeling.

● Future Module Assembly: While this RFP covers one quadruplex building, the design

should be modular and repeatable. In the future, four modules will be connected to form

one building as described, but also consider if multiple quadruplexes are placed adjacent

or additional modules added. The immediate requirement is four modules per building,

but the structural scheme could be ﬂexible to allow expansion (for instance, two

quadruplexes side by side making eight units, etc.). The engineer is not required to design

a larger complex, but the modular connections should be such that additional modules

could hypothetically tie in using the same principles. In summary, the design should not

preclude the scalability of this system to larger arrangements.

● Durability and Protection: Ensure structural elements are protected from the harsh

environment: all exterior metal hardware should be corrosion-resistant (galvanized or

better), timber elements exposed to potential moisture should be treated or appropriately

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detailed to remain dry. Consider condensation in SIPs and ensure a proper vapor barrier

placement as needed (though this may be more of an envelope detail, it intersects with

structure in SIP design). Structural details should prevent water inﬁltration (ﬂashing at

module joints, sealing of any penetrations). The engineer should also consider ﬁre safety

in the structural design (e.g., ﬁre-separation between units through the modular

construction, ﬁre-resistance ratings of the SIP panels especially if they are part of a party

wall or ﬂoor-ceiling separation). While ﬁre design is primarily architectural, any structural

impact (like reduced section for ﬁre cuts, etc.) should be accounted for. The building must

ultimately meet Ukrainian ﬁre codes for a multi-family residence, which could aﬀect

structural member sizing or protection (for example, an 8″ timber might need cladding or

treatment for ﬁre resistance).

6. Additional Design Considerations

This section includes other requirements and guidance to ensure the design meets the project’s

functional goals:

● Removable Interior Partition: Each apartment consists of two modules joined together,

and the design envisions a cut-away internal partition between those modules to create

one combined living space. Typically, each module would have an end wall (for structural

integrity during transport), which aligns back-to-back when modules are joined. The

engineer must accommodate the removal or opening of this wall. In practice, this could

mean designing that wall as non-load-bearing or easily demountable, except for

necessary boundary framing. The RFP expects the structural design to allow a clear

opening (roughly the module width minus small framing) between the two joined modules’

interiors once on site, without compromising the building’s stability. For example, the

modules might have a framed rough opening that is temporarily sheathed for transport

and can be knocked out to form a large doorway or archway between modules. If that

partition is needed for shear resistance, the engineer should ensure that once removed,

other elements (like exterior walls or a perimeter moment frame) take over the lateral load

resistance. One approach is to have a “weak wall” that can be cut open post-install while

a permanent moment-resisting or braced frame around the module perimeter handles

the loads. The proposal should clearly state how a combined 50 ft apartment can have an

open plan joining two modules safely. Any headers or transfer beams needed at the

module junction for this opening should be speciﬁed (for example, a ﬂush steel or glulam

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beam across the ceiling if the partition is largely removed, to carry ﬂoor loads across the

opening). In summary, provide a detail for a knock-out panel or partition that serves

during transport but is not structurally required in the ﬁnal assembled conﬁguration, or

design alternative stability systems to accommodate its removal.

● Minimize Steel Usage: The project prefers to maximize the use of timber/engineered

wood and SIP technology for sustainability and local availability. Steel components should

be used only where necessary to achieve structural performance or practical

construction (for instance, steel plates or brackets for module connections, lifting inserts,

or tension ties that would be impractical in wood). The engineer’s design should prioritize

timber solutions – for example, moment connections could be achieved with timber

splines rather than steel moment frames if possible; hold-down tension can sometimes be

handled with proprietary wood connectors, etc. However, do not sacriﬁce safety or

cost-eﬀectiveness – if a steel element (like a steel spine beam or moment bracket) can

signiﬁcantly improve performance or reduce cost, it may be proposed. All steel usage

should be justiﬁed (e.g. “steel ﬂitch plate used here to keep connection compact and high

strength, after exploring all-wood option”). The modular nature and factory fabrication

allow for some steel fabrication if needed (welding plates, etc., in the shop), so critical

steel components are acceptable. The end design should be a hybrid system optimized

for cost and performance, with timber doing most of the gravity structure and steel

assists in connections or tension elements.

● Constructability and Local Materials: The structural system must be practical to

construct by local Ukrainian builders. The engineer should utilize standard material

dimensions and grades available in Ukraine – for example, if 200×200 mm timber or

GLULAM is standard for 8″×8″, design for those; if certain rebar or anchor bolt sizes are

common, specify those. Avoid designs that require highly specialized labor or equipment.

Connections should be designed for ease of assembly in the ﬁeld: ideally, modules can

be connected with a few simple actions (inserting a spline, tightening bolts). Tolerances

should be realistic for ﬁeld conditions (not relying on perfect millimeter precision of

placement). The design should also consider the factory fabrication process – e.g., how

the SIPs with embedded joists will be manufactured (the engineer might coordinate with

SIP fabricator speciﬁcations). Modular coordination is key: ensure that any two modules

will ﬁt together without on-site modiﬁcation (aside from removing the intended knock-out

panels). If speciﬁc jigs or sequence are needed in construction (like installing a spline

before modules touch), note that. The proposal should reﬂect an understanding of local

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construction workﬂows and propose details that contractors can easily follow.

Additionally, materials should be chosen with an eye on cost and availability – e.g., if

MgO board is not readily available, propose an alternative for skins (the client has

assumed MgO, but the engineer can conﬁrm its local availability or suggest equivalent

sheathing). Fasteners and connectors ideally should be oﬀ-the-shelf (or easily fabricated

by local metal shops). By focusing on constructability, the ﬁnal design will facilitate

eﬃcient assembly on site and reduce the need for rework or custom fabrication.

● Modularity and Flexibility: While optimizing for the speciﬁc quadruplex conﬁguration,

maintain ﬂexibility in the design. The module design should be somewhat adaptable to

diﬀerent layouts or climate enhancements without major re-engineering. For instance, if

in future the module is used in a single-family or duplex conﬁguration, the connections

and framing principles would remain valid. This is a secondary concern, but proposals that

demonstrate an understanding of how the system could be modularly expanded or

adapted (e.g., adding a third story in the future, or reconﬁguring unit layouts) are valued,

as it shows robustness of the structural concept.

Deliverables

The proposal shall clearly conﬁrm that the following deliverables will be provided by the selected

engineering ﬁrm as part of the scope:

● Complete Structural Design Drawings: Detailed structural drawings for the foundation,

modules, and assembled building. This includes: foundation layout and pier details; plan

and section drawings of the modules (showing ﬂoor framing, wall framing, roof framing,

embedded SIP details); connection details for all module interfaces (with callouts for

fasteners, plates, etc.); lifting hardware placement; any required bracing or special

construction details. Drawings should be of construction document quality, suitable for

permit submission and for use by builders in the factory and ﬁeld. All drawings must be in

SI units and follow local drafting standards. The set should also identify key speciﬁcations

(e.g. material grades of timber, steel plate thicknesses, SIP panel composition, etc.).

● Structural Calculations and Analysis Report: A comprehensive calculation package

demonstrating that the design meets all applicable codes and the requirements of this

RFP. The report should include design load assumptions (with reference to Ukrainian

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code values used), calculation of member sizes (hand calcs or software output for timber

beams, columns, etc.), connection design calculations (showing capacity vs demand for

bolts, screws, splines, etc.), foundation bearing checks, and deﬂection checks. Include a

global analysis of the building for lateral loads (wind/seismic) to show drifts and

distribution of forces to shear walls. If structural analysis software is used (e.g. FEM

modeling of the module), provide a summary of the model and key results. The

calculations must be in or translated to English (for review) and ultimately a set may need

to be in Ukrainian for local approval – the ﬁrm should be prepared to provide calculations

in Ukrainian if required by the expertise examination.

● Bill of Materials / Speciﬁcations: A preliminary bill of primary structural materials (e.g.

quantity and size of 8×8 timbers, type and thickness of SIP skins and insulation, steel

connectors, etc.). Also provide material speciﬁcations including strength grades (e.g.

timber grade C24 or equivalent, plywood or MgO board specs, foam insulation type and

compressive strength, concrete strength for piers, steel grade S355 or similar for plates).

This ensures the design is clear on what materials are to be used. If there are any

proprietary components (special panel connectors, etc.), list them or provide a

performance spec.

● Installation and Assembly Notes: Although the contractor will ultimately be responsible

for means and methods, the structural drawings or a separate document should include

notes on the assembly sequence and any special precautions. For example, indicate the

required curing time for pier concrete (if cast-in-place) before module placement, the

sequence of connecting modules (e.g. “install spline X then bolt Y”), and any temporary

supports needed (e.g. “leave transport bracing in place until module is secured to

adjacent module and foundation”). If the engineer has recommendations for jigs or tools

to aid assembly, include those suggestions. The aim is to convey the design intent such

that the modular building can be erected without guesswork.

● Quality Assurance and Testing Plan (if applicable): If any innovative or unorthodox

structural solutions are used (such as a new type of SIP connection), the proposal should

mention any testing or mock-ups the engineer believes are necessary (e.g. prototype load

testing of a ﬂoor panel, or on-site proof testing of a connection). While not mandatory,

including a plan for how the structural system’s performance will be veriﬁed (through

calculations, or testing, or inspections at critical points) adds conﬁdence. The engineer will

also be expected to liaise with the project team during fabrication and construction to

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answer RFIs and adapt the design if needed; proposals can mention this as part of their

services.

● Schedule: A timeline for deliverables after contract award. We expect a preliminary

design review (30% submission) to occur within [X] weeks of award, a 90% draft of

drawings and calcs by [Y] weeks, and ﬁnal stamped deliverables by [Z] weeks, aligned

with the project’s construction schedule. The proposal should conﬁrm the team’s ability to

meet an aggressive design timeline to enable fabrication to start on schedule.

Proposal Submission Requirements

Interested structural engineering ﬁrms or individuals should submit a proposal that includes the

following:

● Technical Approach: Describe how you will tackle the structural design for this project.

Demonstrate understanding of the scope by brieﬂy highlighting key challenges and your

proposed solutions or methods for each (foundation, SIP ﬂoors, connections, etc.). You do

not need to present a ﬁnal design, but we will evaluate your grasp of the project

requirements and any initial ideas or innovations you propose.

● Experience and Qualiﬁcations: Provide relevant experience, especially any projects

involving modular construction, SIP panels, or timber framing. Experience with

cold-climate design and Ukrainian code compliance is highly desirable. List the key team

members, their qualiﬁcations, and roles. The lead engineer must be licensed in Ukraine

(provide proof of licensure) and ideally have experience getting projects approved under

DBN standards.

● Work Plan and Schedule: Outline your plan for executing the work and delivering the

required documents. Include a schedule with major milestones (design development,

calculations, draft outputs, ﬁnal issue). Note if any tasks (like modeling, detailing) will be

subcontracted or need input from others (e.g. geotechnical consultant for soil

parameters).

● Fee Proposal: Provide your fee for the scope of work, broken down by major tasks or

phases if applicable. Also indicate any assumptions or exclusions in your fee (e.g. number

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of revision cycles included, site visits, etc.). Since cost eﬃciency is important to aﬀordable

housing, competitive and transparent pricing will be considered.

● References: (optional) You may include references or case studies of past projects that

are similar, including contact information for clients, to verify performance.

● Submission Details: Proposals should be submitted in English (with Ukrainian translation

optional for technical sections). All proposals must be received by [Date] via [Submission

method, e.g. email or portal]. Any questions regarding this RFP should be directed to

[Contact Person] at [Contact Information] by [Q&A deadline date]. Answers will be

shared with all bidders.

Evaluation: Proposals will be evaluated based on technical merit (depth of understanding and

soundness of approach), team experience, ability to meet schedule, and cost. The Owner

reserves the right to negotiate scope and fee with the top-ranked ﬁrm.

We look forward to receiving your proposal for these structural engineering services. Together,

we aim to deliver a safe, innovative, and cost-eﬀective housing solution for Ukraine’s cold climate

needs. Please ensure your submission addresses all the points outlined in this RFP to facilitate a

fair evaluation.

Thank you for your interest in this project.

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Internal Notes:

LumberFoundationDiaphramC.py

import numpy as np

import matplotlib.pyplot as plt

# Material properties

# Wood (Southern Pine, No.1 grade - typical

structural lumber)

E_wood = 1.6e6 # Modulus of elasticity (psi)

Fb_wood = 1100 # Allowable bending stress

(psi)

# Steel (A36)

E_steel = 29.0e6 # Modulus of elasticity

(psi)

Fb_steel = 22000 # Allowable bending

stress (psi)

# Member properties

# 8x8 Wood (actual dimensions 7.25"×7.25")

width_wood = 7.25 # inches

height_wood = 7.25 # inches

I_wood = (width_wood * height_wood**3) /

12 # moment of inertia (in^4)

S_wood = I_wood / (height_wood / 2) #

section modulus (in^3)

# 8x8 HSS Steel Tube (8"×8"×3/8" wall)

I_steel = 75.0 # moment of inertia (in^4) for

typical 8x8x3/8 HSS

S_steel = 18.7 # section modulus (in^3) for

typical 8x8x3/8 HSS

# Module dimensions

module_width = 25 # feet (each module

width)

total_length = 50 # feet (two modules

joined)

# Loading conditions

live_load = 40 # psf

dead_load = 10 # psf

total_load = live_load + dead_load # psf

# Convert to load per linear foot for a 1-foot

wide strip

w_linear = total_load # plf (pounds per

linear foot)

# Deﬂection limits

deﬂection_limit_ratio = 240 # L/240 is

standard for residential ﬂoors

# Function to calculate simple beam

deﬂection and stress

def calculate_beam_performance(span_ft, I,

S, E, w):

"""

Calculate beam performance metrics for a

simply supported beam

Args:

span_ft: Span length in feet

I: Moment of inertia in in^4

S: Section modulus in in^3

E: Modulus of elasticity in psi

w: Uniform load in pounds per linear

foot

Returns:

Dictionary with calculated values

"""

span_in = span_ft * 12

# Maximum moment (in-lb)

max_moment = (w * span_ft**2 * 12) / 8

# Maximum stress (psi)

max_stress = max_moment / S

________________________________________________

19901 Quail Circle

Fairhope AL 36532

701-770-9118

michaelh@nsgia.com

Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

# Maximum deﬂection (inches)

max_deﬂection = (5 * w * span_in**4) /

(384 * E * I)

# Deﬂection limit (inches)

deﬂection_limit = span_in /

deﬂection_limit_ratio

return {

"span_ft": span_ft,

"max_moment": max_moment,

"max_stress": max_stress,

"max_deﬂection": max_deﬂection,

"deﬂection_limit": deﬂection_limit,

"deﬂection_ratio": max_deﬂection /

deﬂection_limit

}

# Display header and material properties

print("STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS: 8\"×8\"

WOOD FOR JOINED MODULES")

print("=" * 80)

print(f"Conﬁguration: Two 25-foot modules

joined to create 50-foot apartment")

print(f"Total Design Load: {total_load} psf

({live_load} psf live + {dead_load} psf dead)")

print(f"Deﬂection Limit:

L/{deﬂection_limit_ratio} (Residential

Standard)")

print("")

# Member properties summary

print("MEMBER PROPERTIES:")

print("-" * 80)

print(f"8\"×8\" Wood (actual dimensions:

{width_wood}\"×{height_wood}\")")

print(f" - Moment of Inertia (I): {I_wood:.2f}

in^4")

print(f" - Section Modulus (S): {S_wood:.2f}

in^3")

print(f" - Modulus of Elasticity (E): {E_wood:,}

psi")

print(f" - Allowable Bending Stress:

{Fb_wood:,} psi")

print("")

# Analysis of diﬀerent pier conﬁgurations

# Important: The modules are separate at 25

feet, so we analyze each module

independently

print("ANALYSIS OF EACH 25-FOOT

MODULE:")

print("-" * 80)

print("Conﬁguration A: 3 piers per module

(corners + midpoint)")

span_3_piers = 25 / 2 # = 12.5 feet between

piers

result_3_piers =

calculate_beam_performance(span_3_piers,

I_wood, S_wood, E_wood, w_linear)

print(f"- Pier spacing: {span_3_piers:.2f}

feet")

print(f"- Deﬂection:

{result_3_piers['max_deﬂection']:.3f} inches

(Limit: {result_3_piers['deﬂection_limit']:.3f})")

print(f"- Deﬂection Ratio:

{result_3_piers['deﬂection_ratio']:.2f} (L/240)

{'PASS' if result_3_piers['deﬂection_ratio'] <=

1.0 else 'FAIL'}")

print(f"- Stress:

{result_3_piers['max_stress']:.1f} psi (Limit:

{Fb_wood:,} psi)")

print(f"- Stress Ratio:

{result_3_piers['max_stress']/Fb_wood:.2f}

{'PASS' if

result_3_piers['max_stress']/Fb_wood <= 1.0

else 'FAIL'}")

print("\nConﬁguration B: 4 piers per module

(corners + two intermediate)")

span_4_piers = 25 / 3 # = 8.33 feet between

piers

result_4_piers =

calculate_beam_performance(span_4_piers,

I_wood, S_wood, E_wood, w_linear)

print(f"- Pier spacing: {span_4_piers:.2f}

feet")

print(f"- Deﬂection:

{result_4_piers['max_deﬂection']:.3f} inches

(Limit: {result_4_piers['deﬂection_limit']:.3f})")

print(f"- Deﬂection Ratio:

________________________________________________

19901 Quail Circle

Fairhope AL 36532

701-770-9118

michaelh@nsgia.com

Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

{result_4_piers['deﬂection_ratio']:.2f} (L/240)

{'PASS' if result_4_piers['deﬂection_ratio'] <=

1.0 else 'FAIL'}")

print(f"- Stress:

{result_4_piers['max_stress']:.1f} psi (Limit:

{Fb_wood:,} psi)")

print(f"- Stress Ratio:

{result_4_piers['max_stress']/Fb_wood:.2f}

{'PASS' if

result_4_piers['max_stress']/Fb_wood <= 1.0

else 'FAIL'}")

print("\nConﬁguration C: 5 piers per module

(every 6.25 feet)")

span_5_piers = 25 / 4 # = 6.25 feet

between piers

result_5_piers =

calculate_beam_performance(span_5_piers,

I_wood, S_wood, E_wood, w_linear)

print(f"- Pier spacing: {span_5_piers:.2f}

feet")

print(f"- Deﬂection:

{result_5_piers['max_deﬂection']:.3f} inches

(Limit: {result_5_piers['deﬂection_limit']:.3f})")

print(f"- Deﬂection Ratio:

{result_5_piers['deﬂection_ratio']:.2f} (L/240)

{'PASS' if result_5_piers['deﬂection_ratio'] <=

1.0 else 'FAIL'}")

print(f"- Stress:

{result_5_piers['max_stress']:.1f} psi (Limit:

{Fb_wood:,} psi)")

print(f"- Stress Ratio:

{result_5_piers['max_stress']/Fb_wood:.2f}

{'PASS' if

result_5_piers['max_stress']/Fb_wood <= 1.0

else 'FAIL'}")

# Visual comparison of conﬁgurations

plt.ﬁgure(ﬁgsize=(14, 8))

# Create x-axis for plotting deﬂected shapes

x_values = np.linspace(0, 1, 100)

# Plot deﬂected shapes for each

conﬁguration

spans = {

"3 piers (12.5-ft spans)": span_3_piers,

"4 piers (8.33-ft spans)": span_4_piers,

"5 piers (6.25-ft spans)": span_5_piers

}

colors = {

"3 piers (12.5-ft spans)": 'r',

"4 piers (8.33-ft spans)": 'b',

"5 piers (6.25-ft spans)": 'g'

}

# Function to plot module with given number

of piers

def plot_module(start_x, spans, color,

num_spans):

for i in range(num_spans):

position = start_x + i * spans

# Get deﬂection values

result =

calculate_beam_performance(spans,

I_wood, S_wood, E_wood, w_linear)

max_deﬂ = result["max_deﬂection"]

# Scale deﬂection for visualization

(exaggerate for visibility)

y_values = -max_deﬂ * 4 * x_values * (1 -

x_values)

# Plot deﬂected shape

plt.plot(position + x_values * spans,

y_values, color=color)

# Plot piers

if i == 0:

plt.plot([position, position], [-0.05,

0.05], 'ko', markersize=8)

# Plot last pier

plt.plot([start_x + num_spans * spans,

start_x + num_spans * spans],

[-0.05, 0.05], 'ko', markersize=8)

# Plot ﬁrst module (0-25 feet)

for label, span in spans.items():

num_spans = int(25 / span)

plot_module(0, span, colors[label],

________________________________________________

19901 Quail Circle

Fairhope AL 36532

701-770-9118

michaelh@nsgia.com

Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

num_spans)

# Plot second module (25-50 feet)

for label, span in spans.items():

num_spans = int(25 / span)

plot_module(25, span, colors[label],

num_spans)

# Module connection line

plt.axvline(x=25, color='black', linestyle='-',

linewidth=2, label='Module Junction')

# Add deﬂection limit lines and legends

plt.axhline(y=-result_3_piers["deﬂection_limit

"], color='r', linestyle='--', alpha=0.7,

label=f"L/240 limit for 12.5-ft span

({result_3_piers['deﬂection_limit']:.3f}\")")

plt.axhline(y=-result_4_piers["deﬂection_limit

"], color='b', linestyle='--', alpha=0.7,

label=f"L/240 limit for 8.33-ft span

({result_4_piers['deﬂection_limit']:.3f}\")")

plt.axhline(y=-result_5_piers["deﬂection_limit

"], color='g', linestyle='--', alpha=0.7,

label=f"L/240 limit for 6.25-ft span

({result_5_piers['deﬂection_limit']:.3f}\")")

plt.axhline(y=0, color='black', linestyle='-',

alpha=0.3)

plt.title("Deﬂection Comparison for Two

Joined 25-foot Modules (50-foot total

length)")

plt.xlabel("Position along building (feet)")

plt.ylabel("Deﬂection (inches)")

plt.grid(True, linestyle='--', alpha=0.7)

plt.legend(loc="lower center")

plt.gca().invert_yaxis() # Invert y-axis so

deﬂection shows downward

# Add annotations for total pier counts

plt.annotate("Total piers with 3-pier conﬁg: 5

piers (including shared center)",

xy=(5,

-result_3_piers["max_deﬂection"]), xytext=(5,

-0.6),

arrowprops=dict(facecolor='red',

shrink=0.05), color='red')

plt.annotate("Total piers with 4-pier conﬁg: 7

piers (including shared center)",

xy=(15,

-result_4_piers["max_deﬂection"]),

xytext=(15, -0.4),

arrowprops=dict(facecolor='blue',

shrink=0.05), color='blue')

plt.tight_layout()

# Junction analysis

print("\nMODULE JUNCTION ANALYSIS:")

print("-" * 80)

print("At the junction of the two modules

(25-foot mark):")

print("- A shared pier supports both

modules")

print("- Each module behaves structurally

independent of the other")

print("- The junction does not aﬀect the

deﬂection calculations")

# Practical recommendations

print("\nRECOMMENDED PIER

CONFIGURATION:")

print("-" * 80)

if result_4_piers["deﬂection_ratio"] <= 1.0:

print("OPTION 1: 4 piers per module (7

piers total for joined modules)")

print(f"- Span between piers:

{span_4_piers:.2f} feet")

print(f"- Deﬂection ratio:

{result_4_piers['deﬂection_ratio']:.2f} (PASS)")

print(f"- Safety factor:

{1/result_4_piers['deﬂection_ratio']:.1f}×")

print("- Pier locations: corners, junction,

and one intermediate pier in each half")

print("- Total piers required: 7 (including

shared pier at junction)")

if result_3_piers["deﬂection_ratio"] <= 1.0:

print("\nOPTION 2: 3 piers per module (5

piers total for joined modules)")

print(f"- Span between piers:

________________________________________________

19901 Quail Circle

Fairhope AL 36532

701-770-9118

michaelh@nsgia.com

Fully Integrated Quadruplex Modular Housing

{span_3_piers:.2f} feet")

print(f"- Deﬂection ratio:

{result_3_piers['deﬂection_ratio']:.2f} (PASS)")

print(f"- Safety factor:

{1/result_3_piers['deﬂection_ratio']:.1f}×")

print("- Pier locations: corners, junction,

and midpoint of each module")

print("- Total piers required: 5 (including

shared pier at junction)")

else:

print("3 piers per module is NOT

RECOMMENDED - exceeds deﬂection limits")

# Overall conclusion

print("\nCONCLUSION:")

print("-" * 80)

print("For two 25-foot modules joined to

create a 50-foot apartment:")

if result_4_piers["deﬂection_ratio"] <= 1.0:

print("1. The 8\"×8\" wood beam WILL work

as a substitute for steel with:")

print(f" - 4 piers per module

({span_4_piers:.2f}-foot spans)")

print(f" - Total of 7 piers for the full

50-foot length")

print(f" - Deﬂection well within L/240

limit")

print(f" - Stress at only

{result_4_piers['max_stress']/Fb_wood*100:.1

f}% of allowable")

if result_3_piers["deﬂection_ratio"] <= 1.0:

print("\n2. If L/240 compliance is

conﬁrmed by actual testing, a 3-pier

conﬁguration may be acceptable:")

print(f" - 3 piers per module

({span_3_piers:.2f}-foot spans)")

print(f" - Total of 5 piers for the full

50-foot length")

print(f" - Provides some safety margin for

deﬂection")

else:

print("\n2. A 3-pier conﬁguration is NOT

recommended as it exceeds L/240

deﬂection limits")

print("\nRECOMMENDATION: Use the 4-pier

conﬁguration (7 piers total) for optimal

structural performance and code

compliance.")

________________________________________________

19901 Quail Circle

Fairhope AL 36532

701-770-9118

michaelh@nsgia.com