Menu

Update #11: Cold-Formed Steel for Urban Apartments, Housing Rebuild After Wildfire and Fire Station

BuildSteel is dedicated to tracking the use of cold-formed steel (CFS) framing in projects across the globe. This post features projects that highlight design flexibility, noncombustible construction and enhanced safety with CFS framing.

Topics
Copy of Update #9: Cold-Formed Steel for Performing Arts Center, Child Care Centers and Student Training by Dan Snyder

Steel Framing Speeds Residential Construction

A new residential development is underway in Stockport, England, where 62 apartments are being built using cold-formed steel (CFS) framing as part of a larger urban regeneration initiative. The project is located on the former site of a local college and marks the first phase of a broader plan to create a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood. Work on the first residential building includes delivery of the structural frame, interior finishes, and fire-stopping systems, all aligned with modern methods of construction and offsite manufacturing practices.

Stockport, England steel framing housing

A new residential development is underway in Stockport, England, where 62 apartments are being built using cold-formed steel (CFS) framing.

Steel framing is central to the project’s design and construction strategy. A CFS framing system forms the core structure, while hot-rolled steel is integrated into the lower levels to accommodate an angled façade. This hybrid approach supports both structural performance and architectural expression, offering efficiency, safety and design flexibility.

The development is part of a broader initiative to transform the surrounding area into a vibrant urban hub featuring new housing, public spaces, and commercial activity. Construction is advancing on schedule, with completion of the first building expected in approximately nine months. The use of steel framing is helping to accelerate delivery while ensuring high-quality, reliable housing.

Read the full article. 

Steel-Framed Homes Lead LA Wildfire Rebuild

In the aftermath of the Los Angeles wildfires that destroyed over 18,000 structures, Cover Technologies is helping to lead the rebuilding effort with steel-framed modular housing. From its Gardena-based factory, Cover manages the full process—design, permitting, manufacturing, and installation—offering a faster, smarter alternative to traditional rebuilding for displaced residents. Steel is central to Cover’s approach. 

“We’re not just trying to make homes faster, we’re trying to make homes that are actually better, and safety is a big part of that,” says Alexis Riva, CEO of Covers. “Steel is non-combustible and that really helps in terms of fires. 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cover (@coverbuild)

Cover’s panelized system allows homes to be built like Legos, combining speed, design, flexibility and safety.

“Steel is great when it comes to seismic because it’s incredibly strong and it’s lightweight,” says Riva. 

Already working with hundreds of fire-affected homeowners, Cover is expediting permitting and lowering design fees to support recovery. With build times as short as three to eight weeks, steel-framed modular construction is offering a resilient path forward for communities across Southern California.

Read the full article. 

Steel-Framed Fire Station Enhances Emergency Services

Saltillo, Mississippi has started construction on its first stand-alone fire station, replacing the city’s current shared facility housed in a former furniture factory. Situated on land donated by Lee County and primarily funded through state support, the new station will occupy a central location near Highway 145, enhancing emergency response capabilities.

 

Designed with reinforced steel and metal studs, the structure will offer increased fire resistance and long-term resilience. The use of steel framing ensures a safer, more durable facility and allows for future needs, including space to accommodate a ladder truck.

City officials anticipate that the new station could contribute to a lower fire rating, potentially reducing insurance premiums for homeowners. Scheduled for completion by November, the project reflects Saltillo’s continued investment in public safety and essential infrastructure.

Read the full article.

Additional Resources