Housing for migrant workers: why quality and speed are crucial

Modulair bouwen Hierden

The Dutch labor market relies heavily on migrant workers. They are essential in sectors such as agriculture, logistics, construction, and industry — all sectors that struggle with staff shortages. Yet suitable housing often proves to be a major challenge. Homes are scarce, waiting times are long, and existing properties do not always meet the required standards of comfort and safety. This is why quality and speed in housing are crucial for this target group.

The challenge of housing migrant workers

Migrant workers usually stay in the Netherlands temporarily and need affordable, safe, and comfortable housing. In reality, municipalities and employers face several obstacles:
 
  • Housing shortage – regular rental and owner-occupied homes are already scarce.
  • Strict regulations – housing must comply with the Dutch Building Decree and often also SNF standards.
  • Urgency – the demand for housing often arises suddenly, for example during peak periods in certain sectors.
  • Community acceptance – housing must not only be functional but also blend in with the local environment to gain support.

The solution: modular construction

Modular building provides a direct solution to these challenges. Because modules are manufactured in a factory and assembled on-site, this approach offers multiple advantages:
 
  • Fast delivery – construction times are up to 50% shorter compared to traditional methods.
  • High quality – thanks to controlled factory production and strict quality checks.
  • Sustainability – less material waste, lower CO₂ emissions, and reusable modules.
  • Flexibility – buildings are scalable and can be adapted or relocated when needed.

A real-world example: modular bungalows in Hierden

A strong example of this approach is the project Modular Bungalows Hierden, realized by Van den Nagel Modular Construction.
 
In the wooded surroundings of Hierden, we developed 28 modular bungalows, together forming 56 housing units for migrant workers. Commissioned by H.A.M. Nederland BV, the project demonstrates how modular construction combines speed, sustainability, and comfort.
 
Project highlights:
 
  • Smart construction – built with a steel frame, durable concrete floors, and sandwich cladding for a modern look.
  • Fast process – from concept to completion in just 4 weeks of design and 5 months of construction.
  • Comfort and sustainability – energy-efficient systems and a warm, modern design create a pleasant living environment.
  • Complete delivery – Van den Nagel also provided groundworks, landscaping, parking facilities, bicycle storage, and inviting outdoor areas.
 
The result: a functional and attractive residential community that fits seamlessly into the natural surroundings and meets the needs of its residents.

Quality and speed go hand in hand

The Hierden project shows that speed does not have to come at the expense of quality. On the contrary: modular building ensures quality is better safeguarded. Each module is thoroughly inspected in the factory, minimizing errors and failures on-site. At the same time, the drastically shorter construction time means homes are made available much faster.

Why this matters

  • For employers: migrant workers can be housed quickly and properly, leading to satisfied staff and reduced turnover.
  • For municipalities and communities: high-quality housing that fits into the environment without long and disruptive building projects.
  • For residents: safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient housing that feels like home.
 
Housing migrant workers requires innovative solutions. With modular construction, Van den Nagel Modular Construction proves that quality and speed can go hand in hand. Projects like the bungalows in Hierden show that we are not only building homes, but also creating living environments where people feel welcome and comfortable.
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Modular construction combines speed, flexibility, and quality. This makes it possible to quickly deliver safe and comfortable housing that meets all legal standards.

Thanks to parallel processes in the factory and on-site, a full housing project can be completed up to 50% faster than traditional construction. In some cases, homes are ready within just a few months.

Yes, modern modular homes meet all legal requirements, including the Dutch Building Decree and SNF standards for migrant worker housing.

Yes, the modular system allows units to be easily relocated, expanded, or reused at another site. This provides maximum flexibility for changing housing needs.

Absolutely. Modular construction minimizes waste, reduces CO₂ emissions, and enables material reuse. In addition, homes are energy-efficient and often prepared for sustainable installations such as heat pumps or solar panels.

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