Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, which had 300 employees, was slated to expand to 1,000 over a two-year period. Ranging from carpenters and metalworkers to crane operators, engineers and pipe fitters, these workers would construct the shipyard's first two containerships. In addition to locker rooms, lavatories and an eating area for 800 skilled trades people, Kvaerner needed office space for its administrative personnel to move closer to the heart of its operations.

"To stay on schedule with upcoming projects, we needed offices and buildings quickly, " said Lorraine Palfy, Administrative Services, Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard. "Flexibility was key because we want to easily expand or decrease our facilities if our requirements change. ModSpace did a great job providing us with buildings in the past, so we turned to them again to help us make room on our site."

ModSpace supplied Kvaerner with a fast, cost effective solution-a turnkey process with comprehensive project management services. Not only did ModSpace lease buildings to Kvaerner, they handled a variety of functions from zoning compliance and planning to utility services, design and installation. Modular construction started in May 2002. Within 45 days, Kvaerner had four new facilities to house its increasing labor force.

Totaling 8,664 square feet, the structures consist of an office complex, a lunchroom, and separate locker/shower facilities for males and females. To maximize space, the buildings were installed in a "U" shape and placed within a short walking distance of the shipbuilding operation. The buildings were occupied by August 2002.

To save time and money, ModSpace prepared the site foundation via a stone and roll method. After leveling the site with compacted crushed stone, concrete padding and stacked blocks were used to evenly disperse the buildings' weight and meet height requirements. This method was less costly and time consuming than pouring concrete footers or building concrete piers.

An additional cost saving feature was installation of two "gang" sinks in the lavatory of the male locker room. These large basins allow 16 individuals to wash their hands at one location. This design saved space and enabled piping to be plumbed to a manifold. Although gang sinks are not typically found in modular units, they are more convenient for the trades workers and more cost efficient than installing separate sinks.

Decks, ramps and steps were built on-site and met local and State codes. Anchored into the ground at every post, the decks can survive extreme weather conditions along with the daily wear and tear of being used by hundreds of workers. ModSpace also managed interior services and supplied carpeting, lighting and office furnishings such as desks, chairs, filing cabinets and tables.

"Our buildings are working very well for us. ModSpace provided excellent service and was responsive to our needs," said Palfy. "We are looking to get more units soon."