Sag Harbor | East Hampton | Manhattan
Questions our clients have asked us
for questions about our prefabs, please scroll down to the bottom of this page.
How long does it take to build a house, a pre-fab building, a tower?
A house, one year. Our pre-fabs, 6-8 months. Towers, 4-6 years.
Of course the length of time of construction varies with the size and complexity of each project. Our experience shows that the construction of conventionally built single-family houses and small buildings --not prefab-- take about a year from start to finish. Multi-unit housing, low-rise buildings, or complex small buildings, may take an additional six months to a year. And residential or commercial towers, depending on their complexity, may take a total of three or more years.
With our pre-fab buildings, the turn-around time for fabrication is 6 months. Depending on the level of finish required, onsite completion may take anywhere from two weeks to two months. [January 2022 update: please see our updated prefab info below].
Who designs your buildings' interiors?
We do.
If it is attached to the building, we have designed it. So all the interiors, including all lighting, plumbing, millwork (cabinetry), paint colors, floor finishes are specified by us. When we are done, the building is ready to be occupied and used; just bring in your furniture, clothes and your toothbrushes.
Have you used solar or geothermal?
Yes, quite often!
Yes, we have installed solar panels, geo-thermal wells, high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment. But we don't lose sight of a clear fact that the way a building is sited, its orientation, exposure to light, protection from winter winds, simple thermal insulation, and thermal windows are the first steps to energy efficiency. As we often say, a well-performing building shell is like a glove on one's hand: creating a continuous thermal layer that shields the interior from too much heat or cold.
Do you work with your own builders?
Happy to share our list of qualified builders.
Our goal, in selecting builders, is to work with those who display exceptional work and enthusiasm, who are eager to solve problems, and who display a proven track record of projects that align with our methods of construction. Sometimes we are asked to make introductions to those we have worked with. And at other times, we are asked to meet new builders.
Do you work beyond NY -internationally?
Yes! US, Germany, Chile, China, Kenya, etc...
Exploring new regions, contexts, climates and cultures is a unique pleasure of architecture. But there are challenges as well; local know-how, knowledge of building codes and construction methods, to name a few. Besides taking time to research and understand any environment, we try to engage local architects to assist with local and regional processes and issues.
Where from did you compile the colors on this page?
Donald Judd
One of the most significant artists of the 20th century, the radical ideas and work of Donald Judd continue to provoke and influence the fields of art, architecture and design. To read more about Judd, go here.
The work of Donald Judd exerts a special influence on architects of every generation; including us. His outstanding ability to distill experience to a singular event -ripe with infinite associations- influences our thoughts to this day...
Are your buildings expensive to build?
Well, it depends….
We take great pride in exploring methods of construction that are efficient, and in communicating our intent to builders carefully and instructively. This yields a seamless workflow, efficient construction and cost savings. In most instances, the construction cost of our buildings are in par with high-quality structures of equivalent size. Our pre-fab buildings, on the other hand, are significantly lower in cost than conventional building.
Do flat roofs leak?
Emphatically, NO!
Its surprising how often this question is asked. It shows that flat roofs have caused issues in the past in some buildings. Flat roof construction is very different now than even ten years ago. A properly built flat roof should not leak! We seal the roof and all its joints very tightly. And take careful precautions to shed water, snow and ice.
Questions about our pre-fabricated containers...
October 2023
We have great news!
After a long period of research, design and development, we are ready (and super excited) to present our new program of pre-designed and -engineered building templates. These are sets of architectural drawings —for variously sized buildings— that are ready for construction —by you or your contractor, or in one of our partner factories and delivered to your property.
Please go to our webpage: RTL (Read-to-Live); as well as our dedicated Instagram page here. For further info about our process, please visit our Blog page here .
To start your project, email us at info@mbarchitecture.com.
General Questions
What are RTL modular blocks?
RTL blocks are pre-designed, pre-engineered building units that can be fabricated off-site or built on-site. They are designed to be flexible, efficient, and adaptable for a wide range of housing and civic needs.
Are these blocks prefabricated or site-built?
Both options are possible. The same design can be fabricated in a factory or built by local contractors, depending on cost, schedule, and regional labor resources. Typically, its both faster and less expensive to prefab in a factory and deliver to site.
Who are RTL blocks for?
RTL blocks are intended for developers, municipalities, nonprofits, and individuals looking for high-quality, modern housing solutions delivered quickly and efficiently — especially on small or difficult lots.
Design & Customization
Can I customize the design?
Yes. While the core dimensions and structural logic are consistent for efficiency, facades, finishes, and site plans can be adapted to suit local conditions or specific preferences.
What kinds of buildings can be created with RTL blocks?
From single-family homes and ADUs to multi-family housing and neighborhood clusters, RTL blocks are combinable and scalable. We've designed one-bedroom studios to five-bedroom homes, as well as libraries, school buildings, and commercial studios.
How do the blocks respond to different sites?
The system supports a range of site strategies — from urban infill to sloped or narrow lots — by allowing rotation, mirroring, and stacking of blocks.
Construction & Installation
How long does it take to build with RTL blocks?
Construction time varies depending on whether the units are prefabricated or site-built, but overall timelines are significantly reduced due to design repetition, pre-coordination, and reduced on-site complexity. Typically, factory prefabricating will take less than 5 months, and on-site building may take around a year.
Do RTL blocks require a specific contractor or factory?
If prefabricating in a factory, we would only work with those that have been vetted by us. If you are site-building, you may use your own contractor with support by us (or another architect).
What kind of foundation is required?
RTL blocks are compatible with a range of foundation types, including slab-on-grade, piers, or crawl spaces, depending on site and code requirements.
Cost & Financing
How much do RTL homes cost?
Cost varies based on location, finish level, delivery method, and site conditions. However, the system is designed to reduce overall costs through repetition, standardization, and efficient labor coordination. Typically, our high-quality options range from $325 to $425 /square foot (this excludes appliances, finished flooring, HVAC, siding, and site-work).
Is financing available for RTL homes?
Yes. RTL homes are fully code-compliant and can be permitted and financed like conventional buildings. We are also working with partners to streamline financing for factory-built versions.
Are RTL blocks eligible for affordable housing programs or incentives?
Yes, in many jurisdictions. Because RTL blocks are scalable and cost-efficient, they are well-suited for affordable and workforce housing initiatives.
Sustainability & Performance
Are RTL blocks energy-efficient?
Yes. The system supports high-performance envelopes, and efficient mechanical systems. We can also incorporate exterior insulation, and renewable energy readiness. Further, the ability to add to the building over time, to grow your building as your needs change, is an inherently efficient way of managing environmental impact.
Can RTL homes meet local green building codes?
Yes. They can be designed to meet or exceed local energy codes and sustainability standards, including Title 24 (California).
Are RTL blocks green?
Yes. RTL blocks reduce waste through smart, repeatable design and efficient construction. They support high energy performance with features like exterior insulation, airtight detailing, and efficient mechanical systems. Designed for compact, walkable neighborhoods, they also promote local resilience and sustainable land use. on car travel. It also makes better use of underutilized land, which supports broader environmental goals.