The North Peace Seniors Housing Society (NPSHS) currently owns six properties in Fort St. John that provide housing for seniors. In the fall of 2014, Beairsto & Associates Engineering Ltd. (BASE) was approached by the Society to assist them in the renovation of Building 4. Formerly a 44-bed intermediate care hospital, the building had been sitting vacant for 2 years. The project began with a full mechanical, electrical, structural and building code analysis of the building. Discussions with the NPSHS building committee followed, and plans were drawn up for the renovation and upgrading of the building into a 26-suite senior’s supportive living facility.
The planning and design stage included carefully updating life safety facilities, while maximizing the number of suites and providing for accessibility. BASE partnered with WL Construction of Fort St. John, and assisted throughout the construction phase. Asbestos abatement was carried out prior to construction. While much of the HVAC system remained usable, the plumbing was almost completely replaced. The electrical required extensive updating, including upgrading the fire alarm system. BASE teamed up with Heather L. Johnston of PLACE Architect for the architectural support on this project. The project was completed on time, and the residents moved in on September 1, 2015.
Some of the project highlights include:
- Approximately. 22,000 ft2 (2,044 m2) building renovation
- Conversion of a 44-bed intermediate care hospital facility to 26-suite seniors supportive housing complex, including one and two-bedroom suites, and handicap accessible suites
- Bright open common lounge areas and dining room
- Upgrades to mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and fire alarm
- Asbestos abatement was required prior to the start of construction
- Interior design included soft, neutral colors, and durable LVT flooring in the corridors