GRIMSHAW SHARED SCHOOL

When the community of Grimshaw was in need of two new schools, an existing recreation centre proved to be the central fixture that could anchor construction. Instead of creating two new stand-alone buildings on different properties, each requiring an individual schoolyard and utilities, the two schools could share the costs.

Arrow worked to optimize the design economically. In addition to reviewing the structural integrity of the new buildings, Arrow designed structural steel, load-bearing concrete masonry block wall, and cast-in-place foundation. As well as using low energy lighting for LEED credits, the electrical team was responsible for special security and alarm systems and installing a modern telecommunications system.

Finally, when the mechanical system, a unit large enough to operate the three spaces, was set to be installed it quickly became evident that it would not fit into the allocated space. Arrow created a solution that required that the structure be dismantled completely and repositioned into a unique configuration in the small room. This assembly allowed for the full operations of the mechanical system within the intended room.

Throughout the process, the Arrow team was able to provide energy saving innovations that would reduce the overall operational savings and secure a LEED certification.

The Whitemud Equine Learning Centre Association (WELCA) is a not-for-profit that provides a combination of educational and recreational space for equestrian lovers in the heart of the City.  Originally constructed in the mid 1970’s, WELCA provides an environment for individuals to connect with horses for the first time, or to rekindle their love of riding.  With approximately 1,000 visitors weekly, WECA required a refresh to their existing facility, which was built around one of Edmonton’s historical family farms in the mid 1970’s. In 2014, the City of Edmonton approved a 6.5 Million dollar redevelopment of the entire site.

Arrow’s Mechanical, Electrical and Civil teams were commissioned to work on the construction of a new building for WECA, which houses an indoor riding arena, stables, and administration / learning areas, intended to replace existing, aging structures. Given the high-use nature of this public facility, design was required to be undertaken with long life-expectancy in mind.

Arrow’s Mechanical and Electrical teams worked to design systems throughout the riding arena, administration space and stables, incorporating considerations for a future expansion. Arrow’s Mechanical team designed seasonal ventilation systems, which took into consideration occupancy comfort in the riding arena during the winter, and summer; this translated into a ventilation system which was warm and consistent in the winter, and provided the option to utilize natural ventilation in the Spring / Summer. All systems within the stables were designed to function well out of the way of stall space, as equine safety and comfort are top priority.

Arrow’s Civil team was required to design new underground services and a grading plan to integrate the new building into the existing site. Design includes onsite storm water management featuring a bio-swale to minimize off-site runoff, and the upgrade of the existing gravel parking lots and site access road.

The Whitemud Equine Learning Centre Association (WELCA) is a not-for-profit that provides a combination of educational and recreational space for equestrian lovers in the heart of the City.  Originally constructed in the mid-1970’s, WELCA delivers an environment for individuals to connect with horses for the first time, or to rekindle their love of riding.  With approximately 1,000 visitors weekly, WECA required a refresh to their existing facility, built around one of Edmonton’s historical family farms in the mid-1970’s. In 2014, the City of Edmonton approved a 6.5 Million dollar redevelopment of the entire site.

Arrow’s Mechanical, Electrical and Civil teams were commissioned to work on the construction of a new building for WECA, which houses an indoor riding arena, stables, and administration/learning areas, intended to replace existing, ageing structures. Given the high-use nature of this public facility, longevity was front of mind throughout this design.

Arrow’s Mechanical and Electrical teams worked to design systems throughout the riding arena, administration space and stables, incorporating considerations for future expansion. Arrow’s Mechanical team designed seasonal ventilation systems, which took into consideration occupancy comfort in the riding arena during the winter, and summer; this translated into a ventilation system which was warm and consistent in the winter, and provided the option to utilize natural ventilation in the Spring / Summer. All systems within the stables were designed to function well out of the way of stall space, as equine safety and comfort are a top priority.

Arrow’s Civil team was required to design new underground services and a grading plan to integrate the new building into the existing site. Design includes onsite stormwater management featuring a bio-swale to minimize off-site runoff and the upgrade of the existing gravel parking lots and site access road.

The Korean Central Presbyterian Church project demonstrates the experience of our Mechanical team in the delivery of quality design in Mechanical systems. Having participated in the design of new construction, renovations and additional projects for many places of worship, we have an in-depth understanding of the shared goals and vision of involved parties-to create spaces which are community and worship-focused and multi-functional.

Working alongside the design team from Brian Allsopp Architect Ltd., our Mechanical group designed systems required for this new, two-storey church located on Edmonton’s ever-expanding Southside. Specific systems and design required by our team included building plumbing and drainage, heating and cooling, ventilation supply and exhaust, and collaborative team consultation to adhere to project timelines and goals.

CKUA radio network is a project which demonstrates the skills and knowledge of both our mechanical and electrical design teams, in the delivery of integrated services. Also, this project required the use of Revit / BIM for overall project coordination and design delivery.

Our team provided Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Consulting Services, in collaboration with Kasian Architecture (formerly HIP Architecture), for a 35,000 SF Tenant Improvement and base building. Consulting services included the design and construction administration for a new data centre, building access controls, and a comprehensive security system.

The CKUA building project was a unique one—Dub Architects commandeered the historic Alberta Hotel building facade and repurposed it to create a unique new environment. In the words of the project lead, Wes Bullock, this project, and the required work was a “fusion of old and new.” Electrical requirements were complex as CKUA’s broadcasting equipment required highly technical design innovations and work effort. Our team was honoured to have the opportunity to work on such a unique and iconic project within the City of Edmonton.

Celebration Church is a unique place of worship. Worship, amenities and office space total approximately 27,800 SF, located within an old car dealership. Celebration Church includes sanctuary space, amenity space, offices and classroom areas and a large youth facility.

Arrow’s Mechanical and Electrical teams worked to design systems for the complete renovation of all systems components of Celebration Church working closely alongside Mechanical and Electrical Sub-Contractors.  Celebration Church was delivered using a design-build delivery method; this experience speaks to Arrow’s experience and abilities to work closely with contractor teams to create efficient, buildable designs.

“This project required a lot of collaboration and teamwork, as is the traditional design-build process. It was amazing to see what was previously a standard car dealership transform into such a vibrant space”

– Robin Reid, Mechanical Project Manager

When they were looking to relocate their head office, Catholic Social Services purchased an existing building in West Edmonton. The new location would provide space for their administrative offices, as well as meeting facilities for their patrons who were in need of assistance. The building required an update to be functional for their needs.

Arrow was brought in to engineer the mechanical and electrical systems in cooperation with the design teams’ modern designs. Our teams were on site early in the demolition process to acquire a thorough understanding of the existing building infrastructure. This understanding allowed them to develop a comprehensive and cost-effective plan to move forward. The next steps involved an exhaustive examination of the heating lines and ventilation system as well as lengthy discussions with Catholic Social Service’s president to determine lighting needs.

The intensive research phase allowed Arrow to provide useful recommendations for lighting systems, as well as reduce costs on the mechanical system by utilizing all the existing mechanical units. Overall, Arrow was able to add minimal new systems by using and repurposing the existing structures, adding new parts only when the existing systems weren’t sufficient.

The result was a complete transformation and a new space for Catholic Social Services to do their work.

Wellspring Edmonton provides a unique environment for those diagnosed with and recovering from cancer. Wellspring offers a range of programming, resources, and support for these individuals, and is intended to provide a caring and supportive space which helps cancer patients to find community and healing.

Arrow’s Mechanical and Electrical teams were hired to design systems throughout Wellspring’s new facility. Amenities are spread across two levels and include a fitness room, café, and multi-purpose rooms, an ‘energy room’ and group teaching space along with administrative offices. With occupant comfort a key priority, Arrow designed in-slab heating for the basement, and incorporated snow-melting systems into exterior ramps, Arrow applied economic design and specs in the rooftop units as well as heating/cooling systems with Wellsprings budgetary considerations in mind.

Wellspring operates as a not-for-profit agency, so building design and systems were required to be as cost-effective as possible; as donations and pro-bono work offset such a significant portion of the construction cost and materials. This structure provided some challenges to the project team, with work distributed among more parties and suppliers than is typical. The Arrow team worked collaboratively to mitigate project delivery issues with the remainder of the project team to ensure that the project was delivered as efficiently as possible.

The Victoria Hospital’s Pediatric Unit originally hosted a family area within their unit, space for a much-needed reprieve for family members of sick children who were often at the hospital around the clock. The Ronald McDonald House’s Saskatoon branch heard that this area had fallen into some disrepair, due to heavy use.  Subsequently, the Ronald McDonald house elected to move into this space and inject some of their characteristic comfort and care to space in order to make visiting families feel more at home

Arrow’s Mechanical and Electrical teams worked closely with the experienced team from aodbt architecture and interior design to design a renovation to this space. Design considerations incorporated the fact that the hospital was fully occupied throughout construction in mind.

Upgrades to the space include room for activities, rest areas, a washer and dryer, a large washroom including a shower, workspace, a kitchenette and a large, peaceful living area. Lighting design was intended to create a home-like environment, and facilitate a wide variety of activities, from play to eating, to quiet time. Throughout the kitchen area, bell-shaped frosted glass fixtures create a warm, lamp-like feel, while the quiet room features soft, warm LED downlighting with dimmers to allow the user to create their own environment based on their needs. Recessed 2×2 LED volumetric fixtures in the play area create a bright and airy feeling and provide excellent vertical illumination, contributing to the spirit of bringing the “outdoors in.” Finally, a scene controller in the main area provides different settings for day and night, allowing occupants to dim the troffer lighting during evening hours and rely more on the perimeter downlighting and decorative pendants, creating a more intimate environment.

Arrow Engineering was awarded an IES Award for interior lighting design from IES Saskatchewan for their work on this project.

The Crosstown Dodge project demonstrates the capabilities and knowledge of the mechanical design team in the construction of auto dealerships.

This two-storey auto dealership required that our mechanical design team worked on the construction of shop and office space. These spaces included areas for maintenance garages, service bays, parts storage, offices and a showroom.
The renovation required contemporary washroom facilities which included high-efficiency fixtures with hands-free options. A domestic hot water recirculation system was included to provide quick response for hot water demand.

The design accounted for large variances in heating and cooling demands, as simulated in Carrier’s Blockload software, by utilizing multiple roof top units and Carrier’s 3V system to provide exceptional zone control and thermal comfort. This economical, yet efficient, design also utilized electric heating for vestibules and perimeter offices.

The final mechanical construction cost was aligned with the established budget and the project was completed on schedule.