Ready Homes delivers Modular Prayer House for Worship Centre

The Worship Centre Christian Church Worldwide has opened its new MERROO Prayer House in Papauta, built using two 40-foot expandable container homes, the first of their kind to be used for a faith-based facility in Samoa.

The official opening took place last week during the church’s Annual Conference, attended by members from around the country and overseas. The project was made possible through a partnership between the Church and local modular housing company Ready Homes Samoa Ltd.

Church Treasurer Alai’asa Sepulona Moananu said the new facility was built for retreat purposes and to host members visiting for prayer and training.

“We see this place as a house of worship and prayer, where people can come and reflect, especially our own members from the other churches,” said Alai’asa.

The two container homes were originally designed as three-bedroom houses. At the Church’s request, Ready Homes adjusted the plans and converted them into six-room sleeping quarters. The facility also includes a traditional fale for gathering, as well as toilet and shower blocks.

“We told them what we needed, and they delivered,” said Alai’asa. “What you see now is a result of many people’s support and God’s guidance.”

Ready Homes Samoa was responsible for the delivery, modification, and installation of the units. Muliaga Robert Ash, one of the company’s co-directors, said the design process starts with listening.

“We don’t come with a set design. We sit down and talk with you. You tell us what you want, then we draw it up, manufacture it, and bring it here,” said Ash.

The company, which builds modular homes from its facility in Vaitele, has seen growing interest from both local clients and Samoans living overseas. Their approach focuses on affordability, speed, and adaptability to the Samoan environment.

The Papauta project also brought together several local businesses and professionals. Su’a Alan Schwalger of Schwalger Design and Built Ltd led the design and construction, while Jay Hansell from JJ Hansell Electrical Engineering handled the electrical work. Samoa Stationery and Books (SSAB) provided interior support. Lorenzo Fepuleai and the Betham Brothers Enterprises team handled logistics, and Masoe Norman Wetzell of Apia Concrete Products (ACP) assisted with groundwork.

Ready Homes Samoa Ltd. is jointly owned by Muliaga Robert Ash and Fuimaono Jack Siō. The business was launched in 2024 with a vision to build smart, expandable, steel-frame homes for Pacific conditions. Since then, it has grown into one of the most talked-about prefab housing ventures in the country.

The MERROO Prayer House is their first major project with a church, but it is not likely to be their last. Alai’asa Sepulona Moananu confirmed that the site in Papauta is set for further development, including a mission school and larger training spaces, and Ready Homes is expected to be part of that work.