August 29, 2025

ReFrame Systems develops modular housing model focused on sustainability and speed

Robotics targeted to automate 60 per cent of prefabricated housing tasks.

ReFrame Systems, a U.S. startup founded in 2022 by former Amazon Robotics executives, is advancing modular housing with a factory model that applies robotics, software, and micro-manufacturing to deliver cost-efficient and sustainable homes. The company recently secured USD $20 million (AUD $30.3 million) in Series A funding to accelerate its approach to prefabricated housing.

From robotics to modular housing
ReFrame Systems was established by Vikas Enti and a team of colleagues who had previously led automation projects at Amazon’s fulfilment centres. Drawing from more than a decade of experience in robotics, logistics, and scalable manufacturing, the founders identified that the same principles could be applied to the construction sector, where labour shortages, housing demand, and embodied carbon remain persistent challenges.

The company began with research into housing factories across Europe, Japan, and North America, assessing why some modular operations succeeded while others failed. Lessons drawn from this research shaped the framework for ReFrame’s methodology: scalable microfactories that are relatively inexpensive to establish, adaptable to zoning conditions, and capable of producing homes at competitive margins.

Watch Reframe Systems Series A Announcement

Microfactory model

Central to ReFrame’s strategy is the use of modular microfactories rather than large-scale facilities. Each microfactory can be built for less than USD $5 million (AUD $7.6 million) and deployed in under 100 days, a fraction of the cost and time associated with conventional prefabricated housing plants.

The first microfactory, located near Boston, Massachusetts, produces modules that are delivered to site as nearly complete units, including kitchens with appliances installed. These modules are designed to integrate efficiently on site, reducing construction timelines to between two and three times faster than conventional building methods.

Later microfactories are planned at a larger scale, approximately 50,000 square feet (4,645 square metres), and are designed to support regional networks of modular housing production.

ReFrame Systems multiplex design, a three-unit prefabricated housing solution, each unit offering 130 square metres of floor area with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a starting cost of USD $1.2m (AUD $1.8m).
ReFrame Systems multiplex design, a three-unit prefabricated housing solution, each unit offering 130 square metres of floor area with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a starting cost of USD $1.2m (AUD $1.8m).

Robotics and automation in prefabricated housing

Unlike traditional assembly line methods, ReFrame’s model allows for high variability in design, accommodating different site conditions, local zoning codes, and architectural styles. This flexibility is achieved through custom software that orchestrates both robotic processes and worker tasks within the factory.

At present, robotic arms are used to frame walls and ceilings, but the long-term objective is to automate up to 60 per cent of housing production tasks. Components such as wiring and plumbing are integrated in-factory, with precut materials printed with step-by-step instructions. The system enables both skilled trades and new entrants to assemble modules efficiently, similar to industrialised kit-based systems.

ReFrame Systems two-storey design offers 167 to 186 square metres of floor area, with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a starting cost of USD $1.2m (AUD $1.8m), providing space and comfort for growing families.
ReFrame Systems two-storey design offers 167 to 186 square metres of floor area, with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a starting cost of USD $1.2m (AUD $1.8m), providing space and comfort for growing families.

Focus on sustainable modular housing
ReFrame Systems is also integrating sustainability into its prefabricated housing. Modules are designed for energy efficiency and can incorporate rooftop solar, battery systems, and high-performance insulation. Recent projects have included net-zero Passive House accessory dwelling units (ADUs) developed in partnership with local housing corporations. These projects demonstrate how modular housing can meet climate goals while addressing affordability.

Low-carbon foundations, such as helical piles that avoid concrete, are part of the methodology, alongside the use of recycled insulation, cellulose, and gypsum materials. These decisions reduce embodied carbon while aligning with broader decarbonisation policies in states such as Massachusetts and California.

ReFrame Systems duplex design offers 167 square metres of floor area, with two bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, and a starting cost of USD $460,000 (AUD $700,000), adaptable for single-family or duplex living.
ReFrame Systems duplex design offers 167 square metres of floor area, with two bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, and a starting cost of USD $460,000 (AUD $700,000), adaptable for single-family or duplex living.

Scaling through networks of factories

ReFrame Systems is currently scaling its modular housing model through its Boston microfactory and early projects in New England and California. By refining robotics, software integration, and microfactory deployment, the company is working to reduce costs, shorten build times, and deliver prefabricated housing that meets energy performance targets while remaining adaptable to varied planning and zoning requirements.

See: ReFrame Systems