Keystone Structural Group

Riding on the cusp of a speedy evolution from real estate to rapidly deployable property, modular construction has quickly risen to become the ultramodern construction method. Prefabricated building blocks are transported to the project site and placed in preplanned locations per the architectural plans. Although modular construction is a quicker and more flexible alternative to traditional construction methods, at times architects and developers struggle to overcome specific challenges posed by modular construction delivery methods. From contract structures, design, pre-construction, fabrication, shipping to the project sit, to erection of the modular boxes, there are a lot of challenges that architects and modular manufacturers must overcome for a successful project. Taking cognizance of these challenges, Keystone Structural Group (KSG)—a structural engineering consulting firm that provides structural engineering services to the architectural and construction community—is a leader in the industry providing specialized expertise in modular engineering design. They work with multiple modular manufacturers around the United States to ensure their designs are economical, cost-effective, safe for travel, and easy to build.

As a dynamic consulting firm that handles a wide range of structural engineering projects, the company offers specialized experience in modular structures that require attention to detail and client satisfaction at all times. “Our firm has proven experience in working with modular manufacturers, on both a local and national level. Our experience has prepared us to take on any kind of modular construction project that a developer can dream up,” says Anthony Shulde, Principal of Structural Engineering at KSG. .

At a point in time when modular engineering is set to play a key role in the multi-family residential market, KSG is helping building owners get an immediate return on their investments with high quality designs, that ease construction and provide costs savings

Nevertheless, the company’s proficiency in modular engineering services is not the only factor behind its commendable success rate. It is also the profound and detailed approach to client engagement that draws the attention of numerous clients time and again and their ability to work on complex modular projects that integrate parking garages, transfer podiums and complicated foundation systems. The design process kick-starts with the firm’s principals being involved early and reviewing the schematic design plans laid out by the client. This early attention to planning helps educate clients and architects to create a floor plan that is modular friendly while satisfying the projects return on investment criteria and aesthetics. Part of that early planning process is to ensure that the modular boxes, which will travel over the highway system to the project site, adhere to height and weight shipping limitations but still work with the layout of the building. After thoroughly pre-planning the real engineering work, KSG begins to develop building drawings and engineering calculation packages, which are thoroughly reviewed by state regulators. “We have a strong working relationship with state third party reviewers, who are responsible for reviewing the project specifications and calculations, and approving each project before they begin production. We’ve found that maintaining a positive working relationship with the reviewers fosters a quick and efficient review of the project, speeding up fabrication and construction timelines,” adds Shulde.

Envisioning the near future, Shulde wants to expand the scope of KSG’s modular engineering services. Subsequently, the company is growing and looking to hire engineers who have a desire to work on unique projects utilizing construction methods of the future. Additionally, the firm is working to open second office in the Eastern Pennsylvania area, which according to Shulde, will help the company expand into new markets and better service clients in that region. KSG principals are currently licensed in 20 states and are NCEES certified, allowing them to work on projects throughout the United States. “Over the next two years we plan on being very busy, with a healthy backlog of projects, but we’re always on a constant lookout for new, p