#United States #Modular Construction #San Luis Obispo #FullStack Modular #Cal Poly

Transforming Student Housing at Cal Poly

In a groundbreaking collaboration, FullStack Modular has joined forces with California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) to spearhead a transformative student housing project that promises to reshape how affordable housing is constructed across universities in California and beyond. With a staggering addition of 4,200 new beds to the San Luis Obispo campus, this initiative addresses the pressing demand for sustainable student accommodations.

At the core of this partnership is the innovative Design Manufacture Construct (DMC) approach embraced by Cal Poly, which reflects a commitment to fundamentally alter the traditional methods of building student housing. As Roger Krulak, the Founder and President of FullStack Modular, stated, “We are honored to be part of a process where Cal Poly has made the bold decision to embrace this new paradigm for housing creation.” This strategy not only represents a shift in outlook but sets a precedent for future construction methods in the education sector.

FullStack Modular's state-of-the-art volumetric modular construction system facilitates the off-site manufacture of housing units in a controlled environment. This innovative strategy is designed to significantly reduce costs, minimize construction timelines, and lessen environmental impacts, all while ensuring superior quality. The forthcoming Cal Poly project is poised to be the pioneering large-scale application of modular construction within the California State University (CSU) system—a move that is anticipated to set a new benchmark for student housing across the nation.

In this ambitious project, nine new buildings are being designed to cater to the suite-style living preferences of second-year students at Cal Poly. “Affordable housing is such a big problem, especially on the West Coast,” remarked Mike McCormick, AIA, VP of Facilities Management Development at Cal Poly. He continued, “We need to think differently about how we approach housing and continue to improve the process.” The assembly of a professional team dedicated to rethinking residential accommodation indicates that Cal Poly is making substantial strides to address this urgent issue.

The collaboration with FullStack Modular stands out as an effective solution that not only caters to Cal Poly's immediate needs but is also replicable in other housing projects throughout the country. The significance of this project further extends to combatting California's ongoing housing crisis. In a period characterized by escalating construction costs and dwindling affordable housing options, FullStack Modular’s approach emerges as a beacon of hope. Tavio Darchangelo, Vice President at The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, celebrated this cooperative effort, indicating that their teamwork has played a crucial role in adhering to the stringent timelines and high standards set by Cal Poly.

As manufacturing ramps up in late winter 2025, the first phase of construction is slated for completion by Fall 2026. FullStack Modular’s structured manufacturing process will enable the team to meet tight deadlines while ensuring that quality remains uncompromised. Indeed, production for the prototype units commenced last month at the company’s new factory located in Los Angeles, ensuring a swift turnaround.

This multifaceted housing initiative will unfold in phases through to 2030, with the initial phase tailored for second-year students. Future phases are set to extend accommodations for rising enrollment numbers. The Cal Poly housing project epitomizes a significant milestone in the evolution of student accommodation, demonstrating how modular construction techniques can yield scalable and efficient answers to housing problems faced by universities across the United States.

Reflecting on the journey ahead, McCormick asserted, “We’ve learned a lot from this project. We’re creating a model that other universities can lean on as they confront the expanding demand for affordable housing.” As the initiative gets underway, it heralds a new era of possibilities in student housing, emphasizing improved accessibility and sustainable construction practices.