RWC Systems Awarded the Royal Centre Project in Downtown Vancouver

We are thrilled to announce that RWC Systems has been awarded the contract for the renovation of the Royal Centre, a renowned shopping complex located in the bustling heart of downtown Vancouver. This marks a significant milestone in our company’s history as we continue to expand our footprint in the retail and construction sectors.

About Royal Centre

Situated at the prime location of Georgia and Burrard Street, Royal Centre stands as a cornerstone in Vancouver’s business and retail landscape. The center encompasses a 589,000-square-foot office tower, boasting 37 floors with breathtaking panoramic views. Complementing its office spaces are two levels of diverse retail shops, services, and a food court that offers a wide array of culinary delights.

Scope of the Project

RWC Systems is set to bring its expertise and innovative approach to the Royal Centre. Our responsibilities include:

Project Details

Expertise in Retail Construction

The Royal Centre project adds to RWC Systems’ portfolio of transforming retail spaces. Our portfolio includes notable projects like:

As RWC Systems takes on the Royal Center project, we are excited to contribute to the vibrant landscape of downtown Vancouver. We look forward to this new project and the opportunity to continue shaping the face of retail and commercial spaces in the city.

RWC Systems Secures Contract for YVR 21 – The Post North Tower Project

RWC Systems is thrilled to announce our latest major contract award for the YVR 21 – The Post North Tower project. As the premier walls and ceilings contractor in Western Canada, we are excited to continue our partnership with Turner Construction and contribute to one of Vancouver’s most significant developments. This project marks another milestone for RWC Systems as we return to a site where we have already made our mark, having previously completed the base building and tenant improvement work for Amazon’s Vancouver office at The Post Vancouver.

Project Overview: Scope of Work

The YVR 21 – The Post North Tower is a 22-story structure with a total of 385,500 sqft of office tenant improvement space.

Our scope of work will focus on specific sections of the building—Premise C(1) and Premise C—covering levels 2, 5, and 6, as well as levels 7 through 11. Our team will begin work on September 6, 2024, and we are poised to deliver top-tier craftsmanship in a variety of areas.

The detailed scope of work includes:

Specialty Ceiling Installations: Turf Plaid and Turf Drop

This project will also feature some exciting new installations for RWC Systems, particularly the Turf Plaid ceiling scape and Turf Drop ceiling baffles.

Turf Drop Ceiling Baffles: These are unique drop-shaped baffles supplied in varying lengths. The first set ranges from 36” to 71.5”, while the second set ranges from 72” to 95”. Their elegant design will create a striking visual effect in the finished space.

Screenshot

Turf Plaid Ceiling Scape: This complex ceiling system will be pieced together using various configurations, including main and secondary baffles, cloud borders, corner sections, and tile caps. When completed, the ceiling will form a cohesive and eye-catching scape that adds depth and character to the interior design.

Screenshot

Akustika Suspended Ceiling Panels: Another notable feature in our scope is the installation of Akustika suspended ceiling panels at the Level 2 elevator lobby. These triangular and rectangular fire-rated felt panels will be suspended and transformed into visually appealing light fixtures by our expert team. This innovative design not only enhances the building’s aesthetics but also meets rigorous fire safety standards.

Screenshot

A Continued Legacy of Excellence

As we take on this new phase of The Post Vancouver project, RWC Systems is eager to once again showcase our expertise and commitment to quality. The YVR 21 – The Post North Tower project represents another opportunity for our team to deliver on complex wall and ceiling installations that meet both functional and aesthetic goals.

The ‘YVR 21 – The Post North Tower’ project joins our portfolio of other tower base building projects including:

And many other commercial buildings

RWC Systems Reaches Substantial Completion on the YVR21-The Post Tenant Improvement Project

RWC Systems is proud to announce the substantial completion of the YVR21-The Post project. This design-assist project, carried out in collaboration with Turner Construction, involved transforming Levels 7P and 8P of The Post Vancouver into a modern, functional space tailored to its tenants’ specific needs.

Project Overview

The YVR21-The Post Vancouver Office is a 48,000 square foot tenant improvement project that highlights RWC Systems’ capacity to handle large-scale, complex assignments. This project involved extensive work, including approximately:

The Post Vancouver is a landmark building where RWC Systems has contributed to various other projects, solidifying our reputation as a trusted partner in its ongoing development. 

The scope of our work on this particular project included interior steel stud framing, drywall, acoustic ceiling tiles, specialty ceilings, and acoustic wall panels, each element contributing to the overall aesthetic and functional success of the space.

Design and Construction Challenges

As with any large-scale project, YVR21-The Post Vancouver Project presented its share of challenges, particularly due to the unique structural and design requirements of the space. 

One of the most notable challenges was the construction on Level 8P, which has a ceiling height of 24 feet to the underside of Level 10. This significant height posed logistical difficulties in transporting and installing materials.

Given that the building envelope construction had already been completed before our involvement, we needed to find innovative solutions to maneuver materials to Level 8P. To avoid the time-consuming and structurally compromising process of splicing studs together, RWC Systems made the strategic decision to order 24-foot studs specifically for this project. These studs were then delivered directly to the Level 8P roof deck using a crane, ensuring a seamless installation process and maintaining the structural integrity of the space.

Special Features and Finishes

The YVR21-The Post Vancouver Project was not just about overcoming challenges; it was also an opportunity to implement a range of specialty finishes that add character and functionality to the space. 

A key feature of this project was the installation of Turf Port Tile D drop ceilings in the Level 8P Event Hall. These specialty ceilings were selected for their acoustic properties and aesthetic appeal, creating a sophisticated environment that enhances the overall experience for the building’s occupants.

In addition to the drop ceilings, RWC Systems installed a variety of acoustic wall panels throughout the project. These panels were not only critical for sound management within the space but also served as a design feature that added texture and depth to the interior. The combination of these acoustic elements underscores RWC Systems’ commitment to delivering both form and function in our construction projects.

Collaboration and Success

This project was a true collaboration between RWC Systems and Turner Construction, a partnership that was essential to overcoming the complex challenges presented by the YVR21-The Post Vancouver project. The design-assist approach allowed for continuous dialogue and adjustments throughout the construction process, ensuring that the final product met the high standards expected by the client.

The completion of YVR21-The Post Vancouver Project is not just another project for RWC Systems; it is a milestone that highlights our ability to meet and exceed the expectations of our clients, even in the face of complex challenges. We are proud to have been part of this transformative project and are excited to see how the space will serve its occupants in the years to come.

YVR21-The Post Vancouver joins other tenant improvement projects from RWC, such as:

And many more.

RWC Systems Completes Renovation of UBC Buchanan Tower Level 1

RWC Systems is proud to announce the substantial completion of the renovation of Level 1 at the UBC Buchanan Tower, a project delivered in collaboration with Kinetic Construction. 

Originally constructed in 1972 as part of the Brutalist architectural movement, Buchanan Tower stands as an iconic example of this style, influenced by the renowned architect Arthur Erickson, who also designed the MacMillan Bloedel Building in Vancouver. The tower, which houses UBC’s History and English departments, has not only been an academic hub but has also gained recognition in popular culture, being featured in numerous TV shows and movies over the years.

Project Scope, Objectives and Challenges

The renovation of Level 1 at UBC Buchanan Tower involved a comprehensive interior overhaul, with RWC Systems taking on several critical construction tasks. Central to the project was the installation of both interior and exterior steel stud framing. Our team successfully installed approximately 640 square feet of exterior framing and 570 square feet of interior framing. This structural framework provided a solid foundation for the subsequent stages of drywall installation and finishing, ensuring the building’s new interior would be both sturdy and aesthetically pleasing.

Drywall installation was another major component of the project, with RWC Systems handling the installation of 2,700 square feet of interior boarding. Following the boarding, our team meticulously executed 2,000 square feet of taping and finishing work. Attention to detail was paramount in this phase, as it ensured that all surfaces were smooth, seamless, and ready for the final touches.

One of the standout features of this renovation was the installation of suspended gypsum wallboard (GWB) ceilings. These ceilings required precise craftsmanship to blend seamlessly with the building’s existing architectural elements. Additionally, the project featured the installation of wood slat ceilings, a design element that added a warm, natural aesthetic to the renovated space. The wood slat ceilings, which covered 860 square feet, were installed using Maxxit Tignum Elevations baffles and suspended via a Unistrut system. This installation required careful coordination to ensure that the ceilings were both visually appealing and structurally sound.

In the covered outdoor areas of the building, RWC Systems installed 640 square feet of suspended stucco ceilings. This task was particularly challenging due to the nature of stucco as a material and the varying weather conditions during installation. However, our team’s expertise ensured that the ceilings were installed with a high level of precision, resulting in a smooth and durable finish. The project also included the installation of 640 square feet of exterior boarding, which further enhanced the building’s façade and provided additional protection against the elements.

The UBC Buchanan Project joins our portfolio of other UBC projects such as:

And many other public and institutional projects

RWC Systems Wins Bid for New Chanel Flagship Boutique at Oakridge Park Mall

RWC Systems is excited to announce that we have secured the bid to construct the new Chanel Flagship Boutique at the upcoming Oakridge Park mall. This latest venture adds to our growing portfolio of high-end luxury retail projects, which includes renowned names such as Holt Renfrew, the previous Nordstrom Downtown, Prada Vancouver, and Yves Saint Laurent Vancouver.

The Chanel Boutique, known for its iconic status in the fashion world, demands nothing short of excellence, and we are honored to be entrusted with this responsibility.

Scope of Work

The project encompasses a substantial 35,000 square feet of drywall framing. Our team at RWC Systems will be executing the installation of drywall and steel studs for the interior walls, drywall ceilings, and acoustical ceilings. In addition, we will be responsible for the application of plywood and intricate metal trimming.

One of the highlights of our scope is the implementation of Level 5 finishes. As a company, we take immense pride in our ability to deliver this top-tier level of finishing, which involves the highest standard of smoothness and uniformity in drywall finishing. 

Level 5 finishing is essential in projects of this calibre, where the expectation for flawless surfaces is paramount. Our commitment to achieving this level of perfection aligns perfectly with the luxury and sophistication that the Chanel brand embodies.

Challenges and Special Aspects

The Chanel Boutique project is not just about construction; it’s about creating an environment that mirrors the luxury and elegance of the brand. This requires an extraordinary level of detail and precision throughout the construction process. High-end finishes, meticulous detailing, and a demand for perfection are the standards we must meet.

One of the key challenges we anticipate is the need to seamlessly integrate our work within the constraints of a high-end retail environment. The precision required for metal trimming and the smooth application of Level 5 finishes will be critical to the success of this project. Additionally, the acoustical ceilings must not only meet aesthetic demands but also enhance the boutique’s ambiance, creating a serene and inviting space for customers.

A Legacy of Excellence

Winning the bid for the Chanel Boutique at Oakridge is a significant achievement for RWC Systems and reinforces our reputation as a leader in high-end luxury retail construction. Our portfolio, which already includes some of the most prestigious brands in the world, speaks to our ability to deliver on projects that require the utmost in craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The Chanel Boutique Project will join our portfolio of high end luxury brands such as:

Achieving Zero Lost Time Days in Q1 2024: RWC Systems’ Commitment to Safety and Productivity

By Rup Dadwan, Director of Human Resources & Safety.

At RWC Systems, we are proud to announce a significant milestone in our company’s history: achieving zero lost time days in the first quarter of 2024. This remarkable achievement highlights our strong commitment to safety and the well-being of our employees, as well as our innovative approach to maintaining productivity on even the most complex construction projects.

Safety and People: Our Core Values

Safety and people are at the heart of everything we do at RWC Systems. We understand that construction is inherently demanding and high risk despite the numerous safety measures and preventative controls we have in place. This is why our zero lost time days metric is such an incredible accomplishment. It reflects our dedication to creating a safe work environment and our proactive strategies to support our workforce.

The Reality of Worksite Injuries

Despite our best efforts, injuries can and do happen on construction sites. Recognizing this, we have developed a unique and effective “Return to Work” strategy that minimizes lost time and lost productivity. This strategy ensures that when injuries occur, we can manage them in a way that benefits both the injured worker and the overall project timeline.

Our “Return to Work” Strategy

Our “Return to Work” procedure is designed to achieve positive outcomes from both an employee and a productivity perspective. Here’s how it works:

  1. Immediate First Aid and Medical Assessment: When an injury occurs, the worker receives immediate first aid at the office. Following this, should the worker need medical attention beyond first aid, the worker is sent to a doctor for a comprehensive medical assessment, accompanied by the RWC health assessment package. This package includes specific questions about the employee’s functional ability to work, which the doctor is required to answer and sign off on.
  2. Assessment and Alternative Duties: If the doctor determines that the injured employee cannot continue with their normal duties, we immediately offer the worker alternative tasks that align with their assessed capabilities. This approach has dual benefits:
    1. For the Worker: The injured employee continues to receive their regular wage while performing alternative duties. This reduces the financial strain that often accompanies injury recovery, as insurance typically covers only a fraction of normal wages. By alleviating this financial burden, we allow the worker to heal at a natural pace without the pressure to return to work prematurely.
    2. For the Project: Alternative duties can still contribute significantly to the project’s progress. Construction involves many tasks beyond the physical installation of drywall or steel studs, such as planning, coordination, and administrative work. An employee who is not cleared for physically demanding tasks can still perform these essential functions, ensuring that the project continues to move forward without interruption.

The Results: Zero Lost Time Days

Thanks to our innovative “Return to Work” plan, we achieved zero lost time days in Q1 2024. This achievement not only highlights our commitment to safety and employee well-being but also demonstrates our ability to maintain project timelines and productivity, even in the face of challenges.

At RWC Systems, we believe that taking care of our people is not just the right thing to do—it is also the smart thing to do. Our success in achieving zero lost time days is a clear indication that our approach works, and we will continue to prioritize safety and support for our workforce as we move forward.