Black and Mcdonald, an integrated, multi-trade contractor recently moved their regional office to a light industrial area in East Vancouver. Once an ordinary, timeworn 26,000 square foot warehouse, the building has been reshaped into a highly functional space to suit the multiple needs of a modern office, contact centre, warehouse and manufacturing facility. Expected staff growth of 20% per annum over the next five years was incorporated into the planning and design.

The industrial character of the overall design, catering to both the blue collar and the white collar sectors was prioritized throughout the planning process. Finishes and design features were selected to complement the company’s heightened awareness of environmental responsibility and pride of their heritage:

• Original Douglas fir timbers supported by a matching 18’ ceiling structure were left largely as is accompanied by exposed mechanical systems.
• 10,000 square feet of dark grey, stain resistant, slip resistant, durable Greenguard certified rubber flooring.
• Reusable and recyclable modular office systems.
• Equipment with Energy Star ratings, high-efficiency and Eco-powered plumbing fixtures, energy efficient T8 and LED lighting.
• Pride of their past was an important part of their message; walking into the entry, staff are greeted by a double height, 80’ long graphic wall, featuring a historical montage of black and white photographs collected from their corporate archives.