Building Beyond Borders: How Mandeville Modular is Changing the Game in Offsite Construction

In the ever-evolving world of modular construction, few players are redefining boundaries like Mandeville Modular, Inc. Led by seasoned veteran Heith Bibby, whose 30-year experience spans steel framing and modular building, the company isn’t just advancing prefab—they’re mastering it both nationally and internationally.

We caught up with Heith for an in-depth conversation on what it really takes to build modular projects across different terrains, codes, and cultures. From the hurricane-prone islands of the Bahamas to the urban intricacies of Los Angeles, Mandeville Modular is paving the path forward—with innovation, grit, and above all, education.

🌍 International Ambitions: Building in the Bahamas

When asked about international projects, Heith beams with a mix of pride and realism. “The islands have been fun—but also challenging,” he admits. The logistics can be a “nightmare,” and navigating code compliance and labor availability is no walk on the beach. But for Heith, the joy of overcoming those challenges outweighs the setbacks.

“You can't go into international work thinking short-term,” he says. “It’s a massive commitment. You have to plan for the long game.”

And he means it. Working in climates like the Caribbean demands a complete rethink of materials and processes. From powder-coated steel to combat salt corrosion to engineering for high-humidity environments, Heith’s approach is clear: build smarter, not just faster.

🔧 Craftsmanship with a Cause

One of Mandeville Modular’s key differentiators is their uncompromising attention to material integrity. Whether it’s powder-coating exposed steel for longevity or choosing mold-resistant materials for tropical builds, every step is intentional.

“When we say we’re building you a better building, we mean it,” Heith emphasizes. “We go the extra mile to ensure every component is protected for the long haul.”

That ethos of excellence extends to logistics too. By partnering with trusted distributors who can drop-ship materials directly to international sites, Mandeville eliminates delays and strengthens global supply chain resilience.

🇺🇸 Stateside Strategy: Educating the American Market

Shifting gears to the U.S. modular scene, Heith is just as passionate—but perhaps even more methodical. While modular has gained popularity, many municipalities are still catching up with the concept. Heith’s solution? Transparency and education.

“We walk every city through the review process,” he explains. “We show what’s been state-approved, what needs city review, and how the two integrate.”

That collaborative spirit also extends to project design. Mandeville strongly advocates for a single design and engineering team across both modular and site-built components to avoid disconnects and inefficiencies.

🏙️ Los Angeles Legacy: A Modular Milestone

One of Heith’s proudest moments? Being part of the first and largest modular build in the city of Los Angeles.

“The city embraced modular, but didn’t fully understand it,” he says. So Heith did what he does best—educate. He personally walked inspectors through every detail, even those outside the required scope, so they could grasp the intricacies of modular vs. stick-built integration.

“That’s how this industry grows—by demystifying it,” he adds.

🏛️ Policy Meets Prefab: Factory Tours & Political Buy-In

Mandeville’s commitment to transparency has even caught the attention of policymakers. Their California factory has hosted everyone from city officials to high-ranking state representatives from Hawaii, eager to understand how modular housing can provide durable, disaster-resilient homes at scale.

By merging modern prefab with traditional character and community needs, Mandeville is proving that modular isn't just an alternative—it’s the future.

💡 Final Thoughts: A ‘Can-Do’ Culture

At the heart of Mandeville Modular is a “can-do” attitude. Whether it’s a remote island build or a groundbreaking project in LA, Heith and his team don’t back down from a challenge—they lean in.

“You learn from each project,” Heith reflects. “You sharpen your processes, strengthen your partnerships, and set a higher standard.”

And in doing so, Mandeville Modular isn’t just advancing prefab—they’re elevating what’s possible in modular construction.

Offsite Dirt Network proudly brings you stories like these—where innovation meets execution and vision meets real-world impact.