NSW pattern book creates new entry point for prefab if suppliers engage early

The NSW Government’s $1 Housing Pattern Book has launched with a clear message: speed up delivery, cut costs, and expand housing options. But behind the simple transaction — $1 for a pre-approved design — lies a deeper opportunity for the offsite construction sector. (main image: Semis 02 by Sibling Architecture: “The simple construction system is suited to prefabricated and standardised elements to reduce cost and construction waste.”)

While the pattern book doesn’t present as a prefab policy, it may quietly enable prefabricated and modular elements to be integrated into mainstream delivery — not through sweeping reform, but via early, coordinated engagement. As David Chandler, former NSW Building Commissioner, told Built Offsite in 2024:

“We need to move from BaU to smart BaU, where efficiency and precision are prioritised over outdated practices.”

Eight low-rise designs have been released, including terraces, townhouses, semis and a walk-up manor home. Each comes with CAD drawings, sustainability data, and a fast-tracked planning pathway — a sharp contrast to the typical $20,000 architectural design process.

“We’re accelerating these designs so those wishing to build can get moving,” said Planning Minister Paul Scully. “The NSW Housing Pattern Book takes the guesswork and the delay out of home building.”

Watch architects talk about their low-rise pattern book designs.

Prefabrication opportunity depends on early supply chain engagement

For prefabrication suppliers, the key question isn’t whether the designs were conceived for offsite construction — they weren’t. The question is whether, through early collaboration, prefabricated substructure, superstructure or fitout components could be rationally integrated. In a number of cases, the answer appears to be yes.

Some designs show traits that may make them more amenable to prefabricated delivery approaches:

• Terraces 03 by Officer Woods Architects – A timber frame terrace design with mirrored layouts and party walls, offering repeatability for component-based construction.
• Semis 02 by Sibling Architecture – A dual occupancy design that notes: “The simple construction system is suited to prefabricated and standardised elements to reduce cost and construction waste.”
• Terraces 02 by Sam Crawford Architects – A compact design with repeated forms, solar design logic and adaptable living zones — elements that could align with panelised or cassette-based delivery.

For these designs, early supplier involvement could assist with framing layouts, services planning and build sequencing — all important considerations for factory-based manufacture.

Other designs may also allow selective prefabrication

On initial reading, other projects present different conditions, and the scope for prefabrication may vary depending on delivery method, site context and supplier capabilities:

• Semis 01 by Anthony Gill Architects – Features mirrored layouts and aligned wet areas, which could offer a starting point for prefabricated subassemblies or interior systems.
• Row Homes 01 by Saha – Compact and repeated forms may provide entry points for fitout or structure prefabrication, but would require detailed assessment.
• Terraces 04 by Other Architects x NMBW – Prioritises contextual and adaptive design outcomes; opportunities for prefabrication may depend on specific builder input and design modifications.
• Terraces 01 by Carter Williamson – A more articulated and varied form, potentially limiting system-based prefab use, though some internal elements may lend themselves to factory production.
• Manor Homes 01 by Studio Johnston – A Class 2 multi-unit scheme that could align with volumetric methods if managed by experienced teams, noting regulatory and delivery considerations.

Pattern book supports coordinated delivery, not disruption

David Chandler has long argued that trust is foundational to industry reform, and that offsite methods must be backed by real accountability.

“Trustworthiness is now being seen as the most risk-free means of achieving completion and value for money.”

“Clients and developers don’t buy buildings in parts – they expect a fully integrated, fit-for-purpose building.”

He positions offsite and prefab methods not as an overhaul of construction, but as a smarter extension of it — if coordination starts early.

In this light, the pattern book may represent more than just a shortcut to approvals. It may create repeatable conditions, predictable documentation, and known planning pathways — essential for any Smart BaU or hybrid offsite methodology.

“This is a practical step to make the housing system fairer — and make sure NSW remains a place where the next generation can afford to live and thrive,” said Premier Chris Minns.

Next phase will test modular delivery at larger scale

Mid-rise pattern designs are due later in 2025. These may present clearer opportunities for volumetric modular construction, particularly in walk-up apartment typologies governed by Class 2 legislation and requiring DBP Act compliance.

“The NSW Housing Pattern Book brings together some of the best architects in NSW,” said Scully. “These designs will mean more young people, families and downsizers can access a home, and we don’t apologise for that.”

For prefab suppliers, this is less about ready-made factory builds and more about becoming part of the delivery logic from day one. Standardisation and repeatability now exist. The opportunity is to plug in early — and build better.

Find the NSW Pattern Book HERE