Custom Two-Story Modular In-Plant Office for a Leading Defense Contractor
Stage 1: The Lead
A Detailed Vision from a High-Security Customer
DockStar Industrial was recently contacted by a major defense contractor in California who needed a custom two-story modular in-plant office for their facility. The customer submitted a detailed inquiry through our website, including a professionally engineered drawing of the structure they wanted quoted for manufacturing and installation.
When the request came in, DockStar sales representative Jason immediately followed up with a phone call. Rather than relying solely on the submitted documents, he took the time to discuss the customer’s goals, space limitations, and project expectations in detail — making sure DockStar’s team understood every requirement before moving forward.
Stage 2: Getting Eyes on the Space
After the initial conversation, Jason scheduled an on-site visit to the customer’s plant. Seeing the space firsthand allowed him to confirm ceiling heights, access routes, and environmental conditions that would impact installation.
By walking the facility and talking directly with the operations team, Jason ensured that our final solution would fit the environment seamlessly — both functionally and logistically. That in-person diligence is what helps DockStar deliver results that match each customer’s real-world conditions, not just the drawings.
Stage 3: Engineering Collaboration & Design Support
While the customer came prepared with a highly detailed, professionally engineered concept, DockStar’s engineering department still reviewed the plans carefully to ensure feasibility and build efficiency from a manufacturing standpoint. Jason forwarded all field notes, drawings, and customer specifications to our engineering team, who then created a precise 3D rendering and video visualization of the proposed structure for presentation.
Although this client provided their own engineered design, it’s important to note that DockStar also offers full engineering and design services when customers need support earlier in the process. With an initial purchase order, we can produce engineered drawings and stamped plans, helping clients move from concept to construction-ready documentation with confidence.
Stage 4: From Quote to Coordination
Using the verified dimensions and final renderings, Jason assembled a custom proposal that covered the full project scope — including material costs, manufacturing timelines, delivery, and complete installation. As a turnkey provider, DockStar will manage every phase of the project once approved — from fabrication through final assembly — ensuring the modular building is constructed to exact specification and delivered on schedule.
Throughout the process, Jason stays in close contact with the customer, providing updates and coordinating directly with both engineering and production to ensure nothing is left to chance.
Why It Matters
This project demonstrates DockStar Industrial’s ability to adapt to complex, high-standard environments — whether we’re supporting customer-supplied designs or developing engineered solutions in-house. For this defense contractor, precision and reliability are mission-critical. By combining hands-on project management with engineering expertise, DockStar delivers modular structures that meet demanding specifications while maintaining the efficiency, safety, and quality our customers depend on.olution for your property — ensuring safety, efficiency, and a long-lasting return on investment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is an in-plant modular office?
An in-plant modular office is a prefabricated structure built inside an existing facility to create enclosed office, meeting, or control spaces within a manufacturing or warehouse environment. These modular systems can be single- or multi-story and are engineered to meet specific space, noise, and environmental requirements.
2. Does DockStar provide engineering and design services?
Yes. While this particular customer came to us with professionally engineered drawings already completed, DockStar also provides full engineering and design support for customers who need it. With an initial purchase order, our team can create detailed engineered drawings, stamped plans, and 3D renderings to move your concept from idea to build-ready documentation.
3. What are the benefits of using a modular in-plant office system?
Modular offices offer flexibility, speed, and cost efficiency compared to traditional construction. They can be installed with minimal disruption to existing operations, relocated if facility layouts change, and customized with HVAC, electrical, and soundproofing options to suit your environment.
4. How does DockStar manage complex projects like this two-story build?
DockStar handles projects from start to finish. After an on-site evaluation, our team collaborates with engineering to verify every dimension and design detail. Once approved, we manage manufacturing, logistics, and installation — providing regular updates throughout the process.
5. Can DockStar work with customer-supplied drawings?
Absolutely. We frequently collaborate with clients who already have engineered designs or architectural plans. Our engineering team reviews those documents to confirm build feasibility and optimize the structure for manufacturing and installation.
6. How long does a modular office project typically take?
Timelines vary based on size and complexity. Single-story projects may take only a few weeks from approval to installation, while multi-story or highly specialized structures require additional engineering and production time. During the quoting stage, DockStar provides a realistic schedule that includes manufacturing lead time and site installation.
7. How much does a modular office project cost?
For example, a single-story modular office designed for warehouse or plant use typically starts around $40,000–$75,000, including materials and basic installation. More complex two-story or high-security structures — like the one featured in this project — often range between $120,000 and $250,000+, depending on square footage, load requirements, electrical integration, and custom finishes.