Building the Future: Hive Modular's Journey in Modern and Sustainable Housing

Silang, Cavite, Philippines, March 11, 2026 –– When I quit my job as a U.S. diplomat, I had no idea how hard it would be to bring Hive Modular to life, or how challenging it would be to introduce modern housing solutions in the Philippines through modular homes.

‍

Not just busy. Not just stressful. But deeply uncertain. As an engineer, I rely on feedback loops, but during our first fundraise and the earliest days of Hive, they didn’t exist. We got hundreds of “warm no’s” and “you’re crazy’s,” with no real clarity on what we needed to do to make ourselves more investible. Despite that uncertainty, I had no other option but to keep pushing forward. After two fundraising rounds and the support of early champions, I’m grateful I stuck with it—because today, modular construction and sustainable housing are increasingly recognized as solutions to the global housing crisis. 

‍

The truth is, if I had known how hard it was going to be before I started, I don’t think I would have had the guts to do it. But the company we have today is remarkably close to the early sketches and conversations we had three years ago. The vision and conviction I had back then are even stronger now that we’re entering a more mature phase, focused on prefabricated construction and innovative modular home design.

‍

Over time, what started as a solo leap became a team effort, and the company is far stronger because of the people who joined along the way. Together, we’ve been developing efficient modular builds and applying thoughtful modular housing design to meet real-world needs. 

‍

Esquire Philippines recently published a profile on me and the journey of building Hive Modular, highlighting how modular designs and prefab construction are reshaping housing possibilities in the Philippines. You can read the full feature here.

‍

It’s a little uncomfortable to see my own story in print, especially when it includes the doubts, missteps, and uncertainty that come with starting something from scratch. But I’m grateful for the opportunity to share it honestly.

‍

Thank you to Paul John Caña for taking the time to tell the story thoughtfully and with care. Imposter syndrome creeps in, even when the story is told honestly, because the journey is still very much in progress.

‍

We’re entering a season where we’re choosing to be more intentional about sharing what we’re building and why. As we prepare for our next phase of growth later this year, I’m reminded that great companies, whether focused on modular homes in the Philippines or advancing scalable prefab construction approaches, aren’t built alone. They’re built with customers, partners, investors, and champions who believe in the mission.

‍

If you’ve been following along, thank you. And if the story resonates, I’d love to connect and share more about the journey.

‍

Let’s keep building. 🐝

‍

Written by John Avrett.

CEO and Founder of Hive Modular.