Jeriko House, a Louisiana-based modular building company, is rethinking the way we build our homes. And interestingly, in developing its innovative prefab/modular building system, Jeriko House looked to the ubiquitous modern computer as its manufacturing template.

When ordering one of today's build-on-demand personal computers, you can specify the exact parts and components that will go into the machine. Need an upgraded graphics card, more memory, a faster chip or a larger hard drive for images and music? Just specify what you need, and the manufacturer will assemble the unit and ship it to you in a matter of days.

The Jeriko House building system works in much the same way. For most modular homebuilding, the modular units themselves are of a standard size and shape, pre-built in a factory and shipped to the building site for assembly. Jeriko House, however, reduces its modular components to the basic elements of the structure, including the frame, floors, walls, windows, doors and assorted systems and fixtures. That makes it easy for homeowners to pick and choose from a variety of components to customize a home's features, floor plan and architecture. Homeowners can choose from existing models and floor plans, or use an online automated floor plan design tool to create a customized structure.

The process starts with a schematic design of the home and a site survey. Once permitting and financing are in place, the total home package, which the company calls a "kit of parts," is created in a factory using a combination of pre-designed, off-the-shelf components and handcrafted, custom-designed elements. Once complete, the components are packed in marine shipping containers for transportation to the building site. The home can then be assembled in a few days to a few weeks, depending on the structure, with a minimum of labor, when compared to traditional stick building.

The interlocking frame of a Jeriko House is assembled in a classic post-and-beam fashion using special modular connectors - no nails, screws or adhesives are required. The frame is made from recyclable high-grade aluminum, and is weatherproof, rustproof, pest-proof and non-flammable, as well as hurricane- and seismic-resistant. Beyond that, homeowners have the option of using a wide range of non-toxic and eco-friendly building materials, finishes and furnishings, as well as water-conserving fixtures and solar, wind and geothermal energy systems.

Several homes using the Jeriko House building system are currently under construction in Louisiana, with more in the planning stages. For more information: 888-853-9540 or www.jerikohouse.com.