Holland Imports Distribution Centre
A Testament to Orion’s Excellence in Design-Build Innovation and Execution
The Holland Imports Distribution Centre is a standout achievement in Orion Construction’s portfolio, embodying innovation, precision, and adaptability in light-industrial design-build projects. Spanning 175,000 square feet, this build-to-suit facility in Yarrow, Chilliwack, BC, consolidates Holland Imports’ distribution and administrative operations into one state-of-the-art hub. Delivered within a 13-month contractual timeline, the project showcases Orion’s ability to manage complex challenges, from navigating environmental sensitivities and proximity to residential areas to implementing award-winning design features.
Recognized as a “jewel” in Orion’s crown, the facility’s architectural sophistication, material diversity, and visual appeal have earned industry accolades. This achievement underscores Orion’s commitment to quality construction, strategic planning, and community stewardship, solidifying its reputation for delivering exceptional results on unique and demanding projects.
Key Project Successes
Site Conditions and Infrastructure Limitations
- Challenge: The site lacked municipal water and sewer connections, requiring innovative solutions for fire suppression and wastewater management.
- Solution: A 100,000-gallon underground concrete cistern was installed for fire suppression, supported by a standalone pump house. Additionally, a septic field was designed and implemented to handle wastewater, an uncommon feature in industrial builds.
Soil Bearing Capacity
- Challenge: Wet soil conditions near the riverbank necessitated preloading to ensure adequate bearing pressure.
- Solution: Fill material was used to raise the site to design grade, with sufficient time allocated for settlement before construction commenced.
Geometric Constraints
- Challenge: The site’s irregular shape and the large radius along Number Three Road required creative design adaptations.
- Solution: Custom tilt-up panels were designed and aligned to match the road’s curvature, combining aesthetic appeal with structural integrity.
Community and Environmental Considerations
- Challenge: The proximity to residential properties raised concerns about noise, visual impact, and environmental preservation.
- Solution: A $150,000 concrete sound wall was constructed along the property line to minimize disturbances. Additionally, a protected environmental area and stream were preserved under stringent regulatory guidelines.
Innovative Features
Future-Proofing: Insulated metal panels were incorporated in one corner of the building to allow cost-effective future expansion.
Environmental Stewardship: Measures included stream preservation and safeguarding a Special Protected Environmental Area (SPE) on-site.
Unique Design: The tilt-up panels followed the site’s curved geometry, showcasing Orion’s capability to deliver customized solutions.
Distinct Office Component: A fully built-out office component clad in ACM (aluminum composite material) and metal cladding, offering a distinct separation yet integration with the main structure.
The Orion Advantage
- Design-Build Advantage: Orion’s design-build approach ensured seamless integration between design and construction, fostering efficient coordination among consultants and trades. This methodology minimized delays, reduced change orders, and maintained budget predictability. By streamlining workflows, expediting approvals, and enabling fast, informed decision-making, Orion proactively addressed challenges, delivering significant value to the client.
- Team Expertise: Leveraging the team’s extensive experience with millions of square feet of industrial builds, the project benefited from exceptional construction management.
- Trade Selection: Collaborating with reliable, high-performing trades contributed to maintaining schedule and quality expectations.
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Awarded Project: TCA | Tilt-up Achievements.