Britco's challenge was to build an energy-efficient addition to preexisting staff housing.
Prior to this project, CN Rail had a preexisting 20-person staff-housing complex on site. The staff quarters consisted of 20 private suites, a central locker and laundry room, central washrooms and central changerooms. As the ongoing operations continued to grow in size and scope, the client required a second staff housing complex that would complement the design of the existing staff quarters and meet rigorous new building codes. The also wanted to prioritize worker privacy, comfort and productivity, so Britco’s final product had to reflect that.
Quick Facts
Industry: Transportation & Logistics Building Use: Modular Staff Housing Number of Modules: 8 Size of Project: 4,608 sq. ft. Completion time: 43 days
Eco-friendly, luxurious suites, built and installed to accommodate growing team
Solution
Britco designed 14 private suites with central washrooms, laundry and changerooms, that complemented the client’s original staff housing complex, while meeting stringent building codes. Each unit was completed using offsite construction methods so as not to interrupt workflow or disturb workers’ sleep cycles. We achieved peak energy efficiency by using insulation and high-quality vinyl windows that exceeded the BC Energy Efficiency Act.
The building is fully accessible, and the exterior was covered with HardiePanel vertical siding to provide the architectural appeal, but also to provide a level of protection against inclement weather and sudden weather events like forest fires, which this region is particularly prone to each year. To accommodate for workers’ privacy, each unit is accessible through a covered corridor that connects all units, or private entrances on the exterior of each staff housing building. During the day, workers can enjoy the natural light and views of the surroundings through the suites’ large windows.
