The new home for H & R Block in Fort St. John is a 10,226 sq. ft. 2-storey office building near the downtown core. WL Construction approached Beairsto & Associates Engineering Ltd. (BASE) to complete the construction drawings, building code analysis, structural, mechanical, and electrical design, site design and landscaping plan for this project. This building utilizes pre-cast concrete panels which minimize construction timelines, important to construction projects in northern climates. In addition, the pre-cast concrete panels provide increased R-value and reduce air infiltration for a more efficient building envelope. BASE teamed up with Heather L. Johnston of PLACE Architect for the architectural support on this project.

Some of the project highlights include:

• Approximately 10,226 ft² (950 m²) new construction
• Pre-cast concrete wall panels minimized construction timelines
• OWSJ floor and roof structure provides additional space for mechanical HVAC equipment
• Efficient planning to maximize site utilization and meet Land Use Bylaw requirements
• Creative design of reveals in pre-cast panels to accommodate signage and visually enlarge windows
• Mechanical systems is ASHRAE 90.1 compliant
• LED lighting to increase energy efficiency and reduce operating costs