FullStack Modular: Transforming Student Housing with Volumetric Construction
As student housing demand surges across the United States, FullStack Modular is redefining how large-scale residential projects are delivered. By pioneering volumetric modular construction, the company offers a faster, more sustainable, and cost-effective alternative to traditional methods. Their latest collaboration with Cal Poly marks a milestone for modular housing in the CSU system, promising both speed of delivery and reduced disruption to campus life. In this Q&A, FullStack Modular shares their approach, the advantages of modular systems, and how this project could influence the future of university housing nationwide.
FullStack Modular is pioneering the use of volumetric modular construction for large-scale student housing. Can you tell us about your approach?
FullStack Modular delivers housing through an all-steel, fully integrated volumetric system. Each room and communal space is fabricated in their offsite factory—then transported to site for rapid assembly.
Their design-build capabilities allow for greater efficiency and precision, while their factories in Connecticut and California provide economies of scale and consistency across projects. By industrializing construction, FullStack Modular achieves higher productivity, lower costs, and greater quality control compared to site-based methods.
Learn more about FullStack Modular’s system here.
Cal Poly’s decision to embrace modular construction marks a major shift in how student housing is built. What do you see as the biggest advantages of this approach compared to traditional methods?
“FullStack Modular’s process moves twice as fast as conventional construction, with greater certainty over material and labor costs.
Unlike traditional builds that depend on a wide range of trades, our integrated team works together in the factory, creating a predictable and streamlined process. This reduces costs, construction time, and environmental impact while maintaining high quality.
Our system also benefits from the economies of scale. The more we repeat a process, the faster and more efficient we become—something traditional job sites cannot replicate.”
This project is a milestone for modular construction in the CSU system. How do you see this influencing future university housing projects across the country?
“The demand for student housing across U.S. campuses is enormous, and costs are rising faster than tuition. Our modular approach offers an efficient, scalable, and cost-effective way to meet this need.
If replicated broadly, it could have a huge impact on how universities deliver affordable housing for students—helping campuses compete for enrollment while supporting student retention and success.”
What specific benefits does modular construction offer to Cal Poly’s community and campus environment?
Because Cal Poly sits within a small, idyllic community, minimizing construction disruption was critical. Offsite modular fabrication allows most of the work to happen away from campus, reducing noise, traffic, and environmental disturbance.
Once complete, the housing will:
- Provide on-campus accommodation for all second-year students.
- Feature community commons, study lounges, kitchens, and quiet spaces.
- Include elevators, air conditioning, and universally accessible design.
- Achieve LEED Gold certification, reflecting its sustainable design.
Outdoor spaces, circulation, and topography were also carefully considered to harmonize with the campus landscape.
How will this new housing improve student life at Cal Poly?
Students will benefit from living in three-bedroom suites designed for double occupancy, each with two bathrooms and shared living spaces.
In addition to private suites, the project incorporates:
- A large community space for events.
- Smaller study lounges and quiet areas throughout.
- Access to resources and programs designed to foster connection and support retention.
By offering both independence and community engagement, the housing will significantly enhance the student experience and academic success.
Looking ahead, what role do you see modular construction playing in the future of university housing?
“As universities grapple with rising costs and housing shortages, modular offers a clear path forward. By combining speed, cost control, and sustainability, it enables institutions to expand capacity quickly and responsibly.
We believe the Cal Poly project will be a template for campuses nationwide, proving that modular can deliver high-quality, community-oriented housing at scale.”
