Kingsway College Senior School (KCS), an independent school, aims to steward a learning environment that develops lifelong learners and PCL shares a similar passion for building environments that nurture the leaders of tomorrow. By collaborating closely with KCS and our expert partners, our team ensured that phase two of construction at Kingsway College Senior School met the evolving needs of modern education, providing a state-of-the-art facility where future generations can thrive.

To enhance the learning environment, the project involved renovating and fitting out Levels 2 and 3. This included the addition of new breakout spaces, classrooms, a multi-purpose room, a music room, a studio room, offices, a prototyping room, a lounge, and washrooms. The comprehensive scope included demolition, masonry, millwork, finishes and mechanical and electrical system additions.

Located within a residential condominium’s commercial podium, noise and vibration constraints added a layer of complexity to the project. PCL collaborated with trade partners to implement specialized noise mitigation strategies, such as using power-actuated tools instead of hammer drilling for hangers and low-vibration tools for demolition and floor preparation. High-noise activities were strategically scheduled during the school’s summer break to minimize disruptions to both staff and students.

To ensure zero disruptions to the students and their learning environment during school hours, the team implemented measures to separate the construction zone and workforce from the students. With no access to the existing passenger elevators, the team needed to find an effective and low-impact way to transport materials from the loading bay. They utilized an empty service elevator shaft within the building, employing an electric material chain hoist with a temporary scaffolding tower to fill the pit and eliminate fall hazards from the shaft slab edge. This unique solution allowed the team to move materials without interfering with the daily operations of students and faculty.

During construction, the staff room was temporarily relocated to a classroom. However, as the new school year approached, the classroom was needed for students, creating an urgent need for a new staff space. Determined to accelerate the handover, the team collaborated with the client and consultant to navigate unexpected procurement challenges on a compressed timeline.

To address long lead times for materials, the team implemented temporary lighting, doors, hardware, and power solutions, ensuring the space remained functional while awaiting permanent installations. They also worked closely with mechanical and electrical (M&E) trade partners to expedite fixture installations.

Proactively addressing compliance, the team conducted multiple walkthroughs with the building inspector and consultants to ensure all partial occupancy requirements were met. This early engagement helped resolve potential issues before they could impact the schedule.

Through strategic problem-solving and meticulous planning, PCL and our partners successfully delivered a state-of-the-art educational space while upholding the highest standards of safety and efficiency.