All the best, The Editorial Team We will keep adding business units that enhance our offering and separate us from our competition. “ ” Editor From The Dear Reader, Welcome to the latest issue of Construction Source Canada, the magazine that highlights the best in building and building products across the country. In this edition, we’re excited to highlight a select list of contractors, developers, and other important industry contributors from all across Canada. Westdell Development Corporation, for example, is a commercial, office and residential development company based in London, Ontario. For over 30 years, they have been developing and managing a growing portfolio of commercial and residential properties. Today, they are proud to be among the province’s largest commercial developers, managing approximately three million square feet of space and operating as a fully integrated company. To tell the Westdell story, we caught up with Iyman Meddoui, the founder and president of the company. We talked about how they have achieved their consistent growth, and about how that growth isn’t slowing down. We also discussed some of their recent stand-out projects and previewed some of their exciting future projects. This edition also includes CIF Construction, a company we were fortunate to cover before and even more fortunate to cover again. They are a a premium heavy civil contractor that has been delivering projects in BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba – and exceeding their clients’ expectations in the process – since 1991. In our previous feature, we talked to Geoff White, construction manager and company director, about their work on a massive expansion at the Gibraltar Mine with longstanding client Taseko Mines. This time around, we talked to Geoff about their current work on the gold-silver mine Eskay Creek with Skeena Resources Limited, on the Quintette coal mine with Conuma Resources, as well as their work in the forest industry, which recently included building a chipping plant for Domtar (formerly known as Paper Excellence) on the southern tip of the Sunshine Coast. Switching gears, this edition also features a look at Concrete BC, a leading organization in British Columbia’s concrete sector. They are currently very focused on helping the industry meet its environmental goals, and ensuring that concrete plays a pivotal role in building a sustainable, resilient future. For more on how they are doing that, we caught up with Jason Saunderson, executive director. For those stories, and many more like them – about more industryleading innovators and key industry players – just keep reading.
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA Laying the Ground Work to Make Life Easier VANBREE.CA
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THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA With a readership exceeding 145,000 senior executives, The Construction Source takes immense pride in providing an enticing platform to amplify your message to the most pivotal audience – your valued customers. Whether your aim is to promote an exciting new condo development, attract crucial financial investments for upcoming projects, or establish a commanding brand presence, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. To explore opportunities for featuring your company or showcasing your latest project in The Construction Source, please reach out to our Group Publisher. Jermaine Poulsen e: info@theconstructionsource.ca The Costruction Source Canada 202 - 1200 Bay Street Toronto, Ontario M5R 2A5 E: info@theconstructionsource.ca Executive Publisher Jermaine Poulsen COO Alexandra Box Editor in Chief Zach Janes Director of Operations Jacqueline Van Belois Derrick Pelley Director of Business Development & Marketing Tamara Breen Business Development Managers Mary Ann Taylor Douglas Thomson Marnie McGhie Chad Hamilton Production Manager Brennan Midghall Digital Strategist Pranim Thapa Administration Manager Belyn Quijance-Dorero
FEBRUARY 2025 WESTDELL DEVELOPMENT CORP Redefining Developments, Lasting Value, Trusted Relationships CIF CONSTRUCTION Strength to strength CONCRETE BC Building a Sustainable Future: Concrete BC’s Push for Net-Zero Innovation KCC ARCHITECTURE Active and engaged architecture TRACE CONSULTING GROUP Outside the lines BASECAMP RESORTS Creating a sanctuary WHITEMUD IRON WORKS Family, Strength, Quality, and Innovation DELEON AFFORDABLE ROOFING Growth through innovation HOMEED Part of the solution ZELTA FLOOR & DESIGN Being the best CEMENTECH Giving their customers control INDUSTRY INNOVATIONS INCINERATING TOILETS IN THIS ISSUEFEBRUARY 2025 BASECAMP RESORTS WHITEMUD IRON WORKS
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA ARNICA CONTRACTING Quality without compromise MR. HANDYMAN OF WEST CALGARY A Franchise Success Story REDLINE BUILDING Building to last SEAMAX Making a lasting impact SEAMAX HOMEED KCC ARCHITECTURE
FEBRUARY 2025 Industry INNOVATIONS MODERN & ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY TOILET SOLUTIONS
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA Water connection not required Requires little space No odour Easy installation No frost protection needed Secure for children ash to be emptied No waste handling, only and more Bunkies, For Home, Cottages, Shops, 3 - 4 visits per hour High capacity Propane&Electric models ABOUT CINDERELLA ECO GROUP Cinderella Eco Group is a family-owned company located in the north-western coastal community of Midsund in Romsdal, with deep roots in the beautiful Norwegian fjord-landscape. We have more than 20 years’ experience with the Cinderella Incineration Toilet, a water-free, ecological solution for the management of toilet waste. Cinderella, the natural first choice for those who place high demands on quality and functionality. HIGHLIGHTS OF INCINERATION TOILETS:
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FEBRUARY 2025 At Van Bree Infrastructure, we place the highest value on our partnerships. Companies like Westdell Development Corp exemplify the calibre of collaboration we strive for and the businesses we are proud to work alongside. From our commitment to being an Employer of Choice to our relentless pursuit of becoming the premier Project Management Team in the industry, Van Bree approaches every project with integrity and concludes each one with a steadfast dedication to helping our construction partners shine. Laying the Groundwork WEST: 7074 Nauvoo Rd, Warwick, ON N0N 1J4 | (519) 828-3641
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA VANBREE.CA k to Make Life Easier RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION - AT ITS BEST Van Bree proudly celebrates the impactful contributions Westdell Development Corp has made to our community. CENTRAL: 4201 Blakie Rd, London, ON N6L 1B9 | (519) 652-5229 FOREST EDGE COMMONS | EDGEWOOD ESTATES STONEY CREEK COMMONS | WELLINGTON GATE CENTRE WESTGATE SHOPPING CENTRE | THE GLENNS SHOPPING CENTRE PHOTO: 1300 FANSHAWE PARK ROAD, LONDON, ON - STONEY CREEK COMMONS
Westdell Development Corporation is a commercial, residential, and office development company based in London, Ontario. For over 30 years, they have been developing and managing a growing portfolio of commercial and residential properties. Today, they are proud to be among the province’s largest commercial developers, managing approximately three million square feet of space and operating as a fully integrated company. With six commercial projects underway and a portfolio of over 37 properties, they continue to add value by adapting to tenant needs and evolving their properties to meet market demands. “At Westdell, we aim to set the standard for modern, customer-focused commercial spaces,” says Iyman Meddoui, President and leader of the company. “Our goal is for tenants to think of us as a benchmark for exceptional property development and management for customers to experience the best in shopping, service, and design. We are passionate about building lasting relationships and creating spaces that serve communities now and into the future.” Prior to starting Westdell, Iyman gained invaluable experience working with industry leaders like EllisDon, although he always envisioned building something of his own. In 1992, he seized an opportunity to purchase subdivision lots, starting with just two or three on the east and west ends of London. That initial success fueled his ambition to expand into commercial development, leading to Westdell’s first plaza in the early 2000s, anchored by dental and medical tenants. Over the years, the company evolved from mid-sized commercial plazas to larger-scale developments, FEBRUARY 2025 White Oaks Mall 697,060 sqft anchored by Walmart, Hudson’s Bay, Dollarama, and SportChek
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including malls anchored by major brands such as pharmacies, grocery stores, and home improvement stores like Loblaws, Shoppers Drug Mart, Metro, Canadian Tire, Walmart, Winners, The Bay, and Giant Tiger. In recent years, the pandemic presented challenges but also proved to be a pivotal moment for Westdell. Unlike many developers, their portfolio, which is focused on grocery-anchored and necessity-based tenants, remained resilient. They adapted by enhancing their systems, strengthening tenant relationships, and making strategic hires. According to Iyman, “This period not only tested us but solidified our culture and our unified approach.” Today, Westdell’s development footprint spans from Windsor to London and extends all the way to the Ottawa area. Their portfolio strikes a balance between secondary and tertiary markets, including communities such as Lucan, Ingersoll, Chatham, Lakeshore, and Port Elgin along Lake Huron, as well as Cobourg east of Oshawa, and Arnprior in the Ottawa region. Wherever they work, Westdell tailors their development strategy to the unique needs, wants and opportunities of the area. “For us, location goes beyond geographic coordinates,” Iyman explains. “It’s about understanding local and regional access, demographics, competition, and complementary land uses, all of which contribute to a development’s success.” While a prime location provides a strong foundation, Iyman believes it is only one piece of FEBRUARY 2025 Stoney Creek Commons 250,000 Sqft anchored by Food Basics, Shoppers Drug Mart, and Dollarama
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FEBRUARY 2025 Aria Serene Living 147 Unit High-End Rentals a much larger puzzle. “Successful projects also require meticulous planning and design. Our approach emphasizes a balanced tenant mix, proportional layouts, and branding that resonates with the community. We combine the precision of data-driven site selection with the creative vision needed to bring concepts to life – ensuring our developments are not only well-located but also impactful and enduring.” In terms of typology, Westdell focuses primarily on commercial and residential developments. Iyman says that commercial projects “have always been the cornerstone of our business.” Those projects can range from 50,000-square-foot retail plazas on five-acre sites to 1 million square foot projects on 60-acre parcels. Between 2020 and 2027, they will have completed close to 20 commercial centres, underscoring their expertise and commitment to this sector. On the residential side, Westdell recently completed a 147-unit apartment building in 2023 and are planning additional projects, including residential towers and townhouse developments starting in 2025. With approximately 2,000 residential units in the pipeline over the next five to seven years, their presence in the residential market continues to grow.
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Modern yet timeless With both kinds of developments – commercial and residential – Westdell takes an approach to design that “emphasizes a balance between functionality, aesthetics, and the specific needs of the communities we serve,” Iyman explains. “While each project is unique, we aim to incorporate certain principles consistently to enhance the shopper and tenant experience.” “We prioritize thoughtful urban design that avoids outdated suburban-style retail practices, such as blank walls, poorly placed parking lots, and uninspired architecture. Instead, we strive to create pedestrian-friendly spaces with tree canopies, inviting green areas, and high-quality landscaping with floriculture and greenery to enliven storefronts and public spaces. We also focus on integrating designs that complement the communities in terms of scale, height, and character, ensuring our buildings feel like a natural fit.” FEBRUARY 2025
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA White Oaks Place 620 Units Two 30 Storey Towers
FEBRUARY 2025 Sereno West Village 600 Unit Three Towers
When it comes to their use of materials and design elements, Iyman says they strive to make selections that contribute to a “modern yet timeless style.” That means they incorporate materials like glass, brick, aluminum panels, stucco, and aluminum composite material to achieve visual variety and appeal. It also means playing with varying heights of parapets, dark brown and gray brick tones, and a mix of traditional and modern materials to create facades that are “dynamic and inviting.” Furthermore, Westdell’s developments utilize exterior lighting, unified signage, steel canopies, and other details adding further to the overall aesthetic and functionality. Landscaping with drought-resistant plants and placing pylon signage in key areas for visibility are additional touches that enhance their developments. Iyman emphasises that they also adapt their designs to meet tenant needs, and they ensure the spaces they create are functional for their tenants’ operations. For example, some sites include drivethru or flexible parking layouts. Those touches are especially important for brands like Shoppers Drug Mart, Canadian Tire, Walmart, Metro, Food Basics, Starbucks, McDonald’s, No Frills, and Dollarama – all companies that Westdell has worked with successfully in the past and present. To achieve those successful design outcomes, Westdell collaborates closely with design partners including SBM, Zedd, Baird, IE Design/Creative Structures, SRM Architectures, EXP, and MTE Consultants. Iyman says they value partners “who share our commitment to quality, creativity, and cost-efficiency.” THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA Proud to be Westdell Development Corp. construction partner. Construction Manager and General Contractor since 1988 Commercial Industrial Multi-Residential Institutional www.beaudoinconstruction.ca 5 Edinburgh Road South, Guelph, ON, N1H 5N8 1-888-437-1967
“Together, we aim to simplify designs to reduce costs while maintaining a high standard of architectural integrity. These partnerships are not just transactional; they are collaborative relationships that enable us to bring our vision to life while adapting to market conditions and tenant requirements.” Much of the same applies to Westdell’s relationships with their construction and contracting partners, such as BRL Contruction. They work very closely with those partners, as in recent years the company expanded into selfperforming construction through their in-house arm, WCM (Westdell Construction Management). “This allows us greater control over quality, timelines, and costs while maintaining flexibility to accommodate tenant needs,” Iyman explains. “When it comes to our construction and contracting partners, we value relationships built on trust, mutual respect, and shared goals,” he says. “Many of our partnerships span over decades, and we’re known for maintaining transparent, fair processes. We steer clear of contractors who bid low and rely on change orders to maximize their financial gain. Instead, we prioritize reliability, quality, efficiency, and adherence to timelines. We also value partners who bring creative problem-solving to the table, offering cost-saving alternatives or value engineering insights.” For example, during the development of ARIA at 420 Fanshawe – a recent stand-out project, more on that later – Westdell identified opportunities to optimize costs without compromising quality, such as using an innovative insulation system in the underground parking. Iyman says that saved them over $400,000. FEBRUARY 2025 Wellington Gate Centre 110,000 sqft anchored by Staples and No Frills
Similarly, at Wellington Gate Centre – another recent stand-out project – the company piloted the Murox prefabricated load-bearing wall system, which significantly reduced construction timelines by incorporating insulation, electrical, plumbing, and openings directly into the panels. “Our relationships with subcontractors and trades are similarly grounded in trust and collaboration,” Iyman says. “We emphasize proper planning, budgeting, and contingencies, ensuring all parties are aligned from the start. By coordinating closely with tenants, we aim to avoid rework and ensure seamless execution.” “We’re proud to partner with firms who share our commitment to excellence and innovation. These partnerships are integral to our ability to deliver projects that meet our high standards and adapt to the evolving needs of our tenants and communities.” One example of such a partnership would be with London Glass Solutions, a leading Londonbased provider of high-quality glass products and services for both residential and commercial customers. Since forming in 2012, they have been providing exceptional craftsmanship, reliable service, and competitive pricing to clients like Westdell. They use only the highest quality materials and the latest techniques and technologies, and Westdell appreciates the way they stand behind their work. Van Bree Enterprises is another example of a Westdell partner committed to excellence. As a third-generation family business, they have been at the forefront of shaping the face of communities and farms in Southwestern Ontario for over 55 years. These days, there are multiple companies under the Van Bree banner, and collectively they provide a comprehensive range of services including high-quality site preparation, land development, and construction integration services throughout Ontario. There’s also A-Plus Building Maintenance, a London-based company that offers a range of commercial cleaning services designed to meet the specific needs of any workspace. Westdell works closely with them in their capacity as a property manager. With their expertly-trained staff, eco-friendly cleaning solutions, and advanced cleaning technology, A-Plus creates environments in Westdell’s buildings that are healthier and more pleasant for everyone who walks in the door. Furthermore, Westdell enjoys strong relationships with their partners off-site. For example, they work closely with WFCU Credit Union, a leading progressive financial institution that has been proudly serving Ontario residents and businesses since 1940. Their commercial services division, in particular, employs a highly experienced team with rich expertise in facilitating complex credit transactions across the real estate, agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and retail sectors. Westdell relies on their tailored solutions and values their longstanding support. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA Saugeen Shores Shopping Centre 75,000 Sqft anchored by Food Basics and Dollarama
Adding value to communities As examples of what Westdell Development Corporation is capable of, Iyman cites a number of recent developments, starting with the aforementioned ARIA project at 420 Fanshawe in North London. “This development stands out for several reasons,” he says. “Architecturally, it’s visually striking and breaks away from the cookiecutter designs often seen in similar projects. We also incorporated smart features aimed at making life as easy as possible for tenants, enhancing their overall living experience. On top of that, we managed to balance these innovations while keeping costs efficient, which is a significant achievement.” Another standout, Iyman adds, is the Wellington Gate Centre project in London, as was also previously mentioned. “This was our first self-performing building, and despite challenging soil conditions, we kept the project on schedule – a testament to our team’s expertise and problem-solving abilities.” FEBRUARY 2025 Iyman Meddoui | President
When it comes to community impact, he cites The Glenns Shopping Centre, in Lucan, and the Saugeen Shores Shopping Centre, in Port Elgin, as being “particularly meaningful.” “In Lucan, we brought new shopping opportunities to a small town, highlighted by the opening of Foodland, which created a memorable and engaging opening day for the entire community. Similarly, in Port Elgin, we transformed a remote farmland area into a brand-new shopping centre, anchored by the grand opening of Food Basics, adding tremendous value to the community.” Lastly, Iyman describes the Westgate Shopping Centre in Windsor as another project they are proud of. There, they transformed a former gentlemen’s club – “an eyesore at the City’s gateway from the US” – into an uplifting shopping node. This development received public praise and almost national coverage highlighting its significance. “Each of these projects represents a unique blend of innovation, problemsolving, and community impact, which is why I take great pride in these developments,” Iyman says. Moving forward, Westdell is set to continue delivering projects they can be proud of, as the company has a robust pipeline, with several projects currently THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA Hyde Park Square 82,000 Sqft anchored by No Frills and Giant Tiger
under construction and others in the planning stages. Upcoming highlights include: the White Oaks Place Tower Development and White Oaks Commercial Expansion, which will revitalize and expand one of the most prominent areas in London; Forest Edge Place in London, which will provide much needed housing while maintaining a community-focused design; as well as Forest Edge Commons and Stoney Creek Commons in London, which are developments designed to serve as convenient and accessible shopping hubs for their respective communities. The list goes on. Westdell is also working on Clarke Commercial Centre in Ingersoll and Arnprior Commercial Center in Arnprior. These projects are in the early construction phases and will cater to growing community needs with modern retail and service spaces. Rose City Shopping Center in Windsor, meanwhile, will provide local residents with more retail and dining options – as will a smaller plaza at the corner of Westdel Bourne and Oxford Street in London. Finally, Sereno West Village is a three tower 600-plus unit major residential project that will add significant housing capacity to the area. “In total, we have over 10 projects slated to start within the next 36 months,” Iyman says. “These developments reflect our commitment to creating spaces that balance functionality, design, and community impact. We’re excited about the opportunities these projects bring to enhance the areas we serve.” Looking beyond even those projects, Iyman expects Westdell to continue growing apace. The long-term vision, he says, is to grow into a company comparable to scale of RioCan and Smart Centres within the next 10 to 15 years. “We aim to build a diverse portfolio of over 300 properties, reflecting our ambition and commitment to delivering impactful high-quality projects.” In terms of portfolio composition, the company envisions a balanced mix: 25 percent large scale shopping malls that serve as regional hubs for retail and entertainment; 50 percent communitybased shopping centres that cater to local needs and foster “a sense of connection” within the communities they serve; and 25 percent residential projects that provide thoughtfully designed living spaces, addressing the growing demand for housing. “We’re also focused on expanding our inhouse capabilities to ensure we can take on increasingly complex and ambitious projects while maintaining the high standards that define our work,” Iyman concludes. “Ultimately, our goal is to continue creating spaces that not only meet market demands but also add value to the communities we serve.” FEBRUARY 2025
White Oaks Place 620 Units Two 30 Storey Towers THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA For more on Westdell Development Corporation, their development philosophy, their community commitment, and their past and present projects, visit https://www.westdellcorp.com/
Strength to strength
CIF Construction is a premium heavy civil contractor that has been delivering projects in BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba – and exceeding their clients’ expectations in the process – since 1991. In recent years, they have been involved in some of the most complex and technically demanding mining projects in Western Canada, mostly working with repeat clients. Those repeat clients have come to rely on their unparalleled industry experience, their topof-the-line fleet, and their team of 100-plus longterm industry experts. For example, at the tail end of 2023, CIF Construction finished working on a massive expansion at the Gibraltar Mine with longstanding client Taseko Mines. There, they part of a massive expansion which included the building of a massive in-put crusher and primary crusher, among other works. That project took place over the course of approximately 19 months and involved a volume of 24,000 cubic metres of concrete. For the first three months, CIF Construction’s team worked “day and night” to complete construction of the in-put crusher foundations. That accelerated timeline allowed the client to quickly capitalize on the then-rising price of copper. “It was a great project,” says Geoff White, Construction Manager & Company Director. “And it was a complicated project, but we didn’t really have any problems. There were no hiccups to speak of. The result was a really happy client.” “For us, one of the cool things about it is that it’s a great big tall concrete structure, and you can walk out and you can look at it,” he adds. “It’s not underground. You can see it working. It’s very FEBRUARY 2025
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satisfying for us to be able to go and see that and see how we’ve contributed to a successful mining operation.” Following the success of that project, CIF Construction has gone from strength to strength. According to Geoff, 2024 was “another really, really busy year.” “I would say the company is doing excellent, and we just keep seem to be getting these jobs,” Geoff says. Currently, CIF Construction is working with Skeena Resources Limited on their gold-silver mine Eskay Creek – they started there last spring and expect to be there for about three years. They are also working with Conuma Resources on their Quintette coal mine located near Tumber Ridge – they have been working there for almost a yearand-a-half now and they expect to be there until March or April. In 2024, CIF Construction also had a few jobs in the forest industry. Most notably, they built a chipping plant for Domtar - Paper Excellence in Port Mellon, BC, on the southern tip of the Sunshine Coast. That was “a really good project,” Geoff says, as well as a strong example of their company’s versatility. “We’ve been really busy, and I would chalk that up to the fact that we have a really diverse company that can do a lot of different things,” he says. “We’ve developed a good amount of return clients in a number of industries who keep in touch with us over the years and maintain us as one of their preferred contractors. I think that’s a big part of our success.” Geoff also credits the company’s success to the calibre of their team. Internally, CIF Construction has well over 100 direct employees, many of them longstanding. Geoff has personally been there over 15 years, and he says some other managers have been there even longer. FEBRUARY 2025
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“We try and take care of everybody as best we can,” he says. “We try to provide a good working environment. And it’s always been the case that we try to provide a good level of pay, too. It’s important to us that our people can make a good living. I think that goes a long way.” CIF Construction’s also considers their team to be their roster of subcontractors and suppliers. Again, Geoff says many of those relationships go back a while. As an example, the company enjoys a close relationship with Russel Metals British Columbia, formerly known as A.J. Forsyth. Russel Metals is a full line service centre with strategic locations throughout British Columbia. They utilize modern and efficient processing equipment, and they carry a broad line of metal products in a wide range of sizes, shapes and specifications, including carbon hot rolled and cold finished steel, pipe and tubular products, stainless steel, aluminum and other non-ferrous specialty metals. CIF Construction relies on their processing and distribution services and greatly values their commitment to quality and efficiency. CIF Construction similarly values their partnership with Blaze Hauling. From their home base in Vanderhoof, they are a company that serves the needs of businesses in northern BC, and they are committed to being the best at what they do. What they do includes hot shot service, transport service, light hauling, hauling, vehicle transport, cargo and freight moving, pilot truck service, and more – they do jobs as simple as moving a piece of equipment to as complex as relocating the contents of an entire business. CIF Construction has long appreciated their versatility and capability. FEBRUARY 2025
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Stories of success As previously mentioned, CIF Construction is currently demonstrating their capabilities at Eskay Creek, which is a brand new gold mine. Last year, they set up a portable concrete branch plant on site there and “we went right down the bedrock and we filled all the nooks and crannies with concrete,” Geoff explains. After creating a “nice flat surface,” they drilled a series of holes for rock anchors that were about 18 metres in depth. When spring comes, the plan is to build the concrete footings for the building and the walls. The actual structural steel of the building itself will likely be erected in summertime. So far, Geoff says the relationship with Skeena Resources Limited has been very positive and collaborative. “They’re big on communication, which is great,” he says. “We have a FEBRUARY 2025 lafarge.ca Building Progress for People and the Planet. Lafarge Canada is a leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions, including aggregates, cement, ready mix and precast concrete, asphalt and paving, and road and civil construction.
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lot of meetings to plan things out, and they have a lot of people that are put in place to get the schedule down and get the procurement going. We’ve met numerous times with them in Vancouver, and they’ve come to Prince George as well to meet with us. And of course, we’re always together on the site. All in all, they have a great team, and we really appreciate working for them.” Again, CIF Construction is also currently working on the Quintette coal mine near Tumber Ridge. That mine is quite large and has been around for a while, but was only recently purchased by Conuma Resources with plans to re-open it – not only for the sake of mining coal, but also to provide employment opportunities for people in surrounding communities. “Part of our job was to go in there and pour all kinds of new concrete and build a new conveyor line,” Geoff says. “And what’s exciting is they started running coal onto the trains a few months ago. So they have a lot of people that they’ve hired and are working in the mills now. It’s been a pretty big success story.” Moving forward, CIF Construction hopes to be involved in more success stories like that one. As a company, they really enjoy being involved in projects that make a difference and have a positive impact on nearby communities. Those projects aren’t always going to be mines – they also have a highways division, which is currently doing a job near Chase, BC – but they do expect mining to remain their specialty. ““We’ve been really blessed doing that work with the mining industry,” Geoff says. “We’re fortunate that it’s a strong economy and we’ve developed such great clients in that industry. I think we just want to do more of the same.” “We always want to stick to the roots of what the company was developed as, and that’s basically a concrete company,” he concludes. “We do a lot of earthworks and civil works, too, but the mainstay of our company is concrete. We have our portable batch plants and we have our portable rebar fabrication units, so we can come in and do the foundation right from the ground. We do the excavation and build the formwork and install the rebar and pour the concrete and all that. Right now there’s a lot of opportunity to do that in the mining industry and there are a lot of exciting jobs coming up in the future here.” FEBRUARY 2025
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA For more on CIF Construction, their capabilities, their services, and their projects – including their current work at Eskay Creek and Quintette– visit https://www.cifcon.com/
Building a Sustainable Future: Concrete BC’s Push for Net-Zero Innovation
The construction industry is undergoing a profound transformation, and at the heart of this change is Concrete BC, a leading organization in British Columbia’s concrete sector. With its unwavering focus on sustainability and innovation, Concrete BC has made substantial strides in shaping the future of concrete production and construction. Under the direction of Executive Director Jason Saunderson, the organization is committed to helping the industry meet its environmental goals, ensuring that concrete plays a pivotal role in building a sustainable, resilient future. Founded in 1962, Concrete BC originally emerged as the Interior Ready Mix Concrete Association, representing a small group of independent concrete producers. In 1964 the organization became the B.C. Ready-Mixed Concrete Association and, as the industry expanded and evolved, in 2017 rebranded to Concrete BC, reflecting the growing diversity of stakeholders involved in the concrete supply chain. Today, Concrete BC represents 150 members, including 54 “active” ready-mix concrete producers from across the province, positioning it as a central player in the construction sector in British Columbia. In October 2024, addressing technological change, the association added a new category for Volumetric Concrete Producers which already has five members and is growing. While Concrete BC continues to serve as a valuable resource for its members—offering support in areas like education, advocacy, and networking—its true impact lies in its mission to lead the concrete industry toward a net-zero future. Jason Saunderson notes the critical need for the industry to shift rapidly toward sustainable practices. FEBRUARY 2025
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“We’re at a crossroads,” he says. “The pressure on the concrete sector to reduce its carbon footprint is immense, but the opportunities to innovate are even greater.” A central aspect of Concrete BC’s strategy is its commitment to education. The organization offers a variety of workshops, seminars, and online resources designed to equip its members with the knowledge and tools needed to implement sustainable practices. Jason emphasizes that this exchange of information is vital for the concrete industry to remain competitive while minimizing environmental impact. “Knowledgesharing is crucial,” he explains. “It not only helps our members stay ahead of regulatory changes but also drives widespread adoption of green solutions.” In addition to its educational initiatives, Concrete BC has been a driving force in advocating for policies that advance sustainability within the concrete industry. The organization works closely with government bodies to push for regulations and incentives that support green construction practices. Jason emphasizes, “Our collaboration with policymakers has been crucial in not only ensuring the concrete industry meets evolving standards, but also empowering it to adopt cutting-edge, cleaner technologies”. The focus on sustainability is particularly evident in the work Concrete BC has done to support the Cement Association of Canada’s Concrete Zero action plan. This ambitious initiative aims for a 40% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and sets a goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Jason highlights the significance of these FEBRUARY 2025
goals, saying, “Reducing the carbon footprint of concrete is no longer a distant possibility—it’s an achievable goal and we have a plan that will transform the industry.” Another important aspect of Concrete BC’s work is the push for performance-based specifications over prescriptive specifications in concrete construction. This approach emphasizes the desired performance outcomes, such as strength and durability, rather than rigid material formulas. Jason explains, “By focusing on performance, the industry can innovate and adopt more sustainable methods without sacrificing quality or safety.” He elaborates: “Don’t tell us how much cement to use, but rather specify how you want it to perform, and allow industry to come up with innovative lower carbon solutions that meet the project needs.” Looking ahead, Concrete BC’s members are preparing for groundbreaking projects that will further the industry’s environmental goals. One example of an exciting initiative is North America’s first commercial full-scale Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) project at Heidelberg Materials Edmonton Cement Plant. This pioneering project promises to capture a significant amount of carbon dioxide from concrete production and store it safely, marking a major milestone for the industry. Jason sees this as a crucial step in reducing the concrete sector’s carbon footprint. “This project will be a gamechanger,” he says. “It’s an innovative solution that could set the standard for the entire industry.” There are also other projects with different companies in the works. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
FEBRUARY 2025 Beyond sustainability, Concrete BC advocates for the resilience that concrete offers in the face of increasing climate events. Extreme weather patterns, including fires and flooding, have highlighted the need for durable, long-lasting infrastructure. Jason underscores the importance of concrete in ensuring communities are better prepared for these challenges. “Concrete is the building material of choice when it comes to resilience,” he explains. “The durability of concrete is unparalleled, and it plays a vital role in safeguarding our infrastructure in the face of environmental change.” Concrete BC’s commitment to delivering a quality product is another key aspect of its work. Through its established Ready Mix Concrete Plant and Volumetric Mobile Mixer Certification programs, the organization ensures that its members meet the highest quality standards, which is critical for large-scale construction projects. This program is recognized by major stakeholders, including the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Hydro, ensuring that concrete producers uphold rigorous standards of excellence. The organization’s also focuses on safety in its work with WorkSafeBC and the BC Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA) to improve safety protocols for concrete pump operators. Jason notes, “There’s always room for improvement when it comes to safety, and we’re committed to ensuring that every part of the concrete production and delivery process is as safe as possible.” Collaborations with other construction industry associations, including the BC Road Builders Association, have further solidified Concrete BC’s
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FEBRUARY 2025 role in advocating for high-quality, sustainable infrastructure projects. These collaborations ensure that the concrete sector continues to deliver solutions that meet the evolving needs of the construction industry. Looking to the future, Concrete BC remains firmly committed to sustainability, safety, and innovation. With groundbreaking projects on the horizon and ongoing efforts to minimize the environmental impact of concrete production, the organization is well-positioned to continue leading the charge in shaping the concrete industry’s future. By advocating for new technologies, materials, and policies, they are not only helping the sector meet its sustainability targets but also ensuring concrete remains integral to building resilient, durable infrastructure. This forwardthinking approach positions Concrete BC and the industry as key players in the global shift toward sustainable construction, paving the way for lasting impact through innovation, environmental responsibility, and strategic collaboration.
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA To learn more about Concrete BC, and get in touch Jason and his team, visit their website at https://concretebc.ca/.
QUALITYCONSISTENCY EFFECTIVENESS
KCC Architecture is a vibrant architecture firm based in White Rock, British Columbia. Their innovative perspective on architecture as an artistic expression of the business world drives their passion to express, through their design, status, stability, branding, growth and environmental care. From the start of each project, founder and principal Karla Castellanos follows a distinctive process, which begins with taking the time to truly understand the client’s goals and aspirations, and then staying involved every step of the way to ensure deliverance and quality. “We actively engage and focus on the client’s needs – we listen,” Karla emphasizes. “Then we remain actively engaged on every step of the project. We deliver milestones as the project unfolds. We monitor the project and provide direction every step of the way. We stay up to date on changes to regulatory provisions and offer detailed solutions and expertise throughout the project’s duration.” Karla has long been passionate about architectural design. After moving from Guadalajara, Mexico, to Vancouver in 2002, she spent about eight years working with some talented firms in the Lower Mainland. During that time, she designed, coordinated and managed a variety of projects ranging from mid-rise to high-rise residential buildings, commercial and institutional spaces, as well as light and heavy industrial facilities. In 2010, Karla brought together a group of investors to develop a number of single-family residences. That successful experience inspired her to become a registered architect with the AIBC in 2011, and to ultimately establish her own practice in 2015. FEBRUARY 2025
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Initially, KCC Architecture mainly focused on highend industrial buildings. A notable example was the E.B. Horsman & Son building in Victoria, which later won an ‘Award of Merit’ at the 2022 Capital Region Commercial Building Awards. There, judges said that the “appealing architecture,” combined with the quality of construction, would “set the bar” for future infill developments in the neighbourhood. These days, KCC Architecture does also a more diverse range of projects. For example, they recently finished a church renovation, and currently they are working on two mid-rise office buildings with underground parking, a 70-unit townhouse project, and a three-storey mixeduse residential building in Langley. Also, they are proudly involved on the new facility for NANAK Foods in South Surrey, which comprises about 300,000.00 square feet including production areas, office and daycare facility. According to Karla, that diversity is very much on purpose: “We don’t want to be stereotyped,” she says. “We don’t want clients to think we only do a certain type of buildings. Our focus is to deliver a design process suitable to develop any type of building. Our unique design process is based on quality, consistency and effectiveness. These values are applied to the design process as much as the construction budget and durability of the building.” “I have extensive experience from various types of projects,” she explains. “While I haven’t worked on a hospital or a military facility, I have been involved in nearly every other area. This diverse THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
background allows me to contribute valuable insights to KCC, and I believe that such variety keeps our skills sharp.” No matter the typology of the project, Karla believes clients choose KCC Architecture due to their commitment to “quality and performance.” “Each building we do is a huge investment for our clients,” Karla explains, “and they want somebody that can actually take care of that investment. That’s what KCC does best. We take care of their investment, and we add value to their development. We achieve this by emphasizing quality in every aspect. Quality in our drawings, quality in project delivery, and quality in the design. It’s our commitment to quality that draws clients to us.” As a result of that approach, KCC Architecture has been able to earn a steady stream of repeat clients and referrals over the past nine years. In fact, Karla says they only advertised once, and that was when the company first started. Since then, “every client that we’ve had has come from a referral.” Karla has also formed similarly loyal relationships with contractors and subcontractors – in fact, Karla says that several projects of KCC Architecture’s work starts with construction companies recommending them. She credits that partly to her beginning her career in Mexico, where architects are traditionally more involved in construction from the early years. “While I was studying to become an architect, I learned that all is interconnected – design, architecture, and construction,” she recalls. “When I came to Canada, it was a huge shock for me to see them split apart. But my experience in Mexico taught me to understand construction and to understand the difficulties of construction. It taught me to be flexible and listen to the Contractors and understand their challenges. That experience keeps me close to them.” One example of a trusted building partner would be Leeswood Construction – a construction firm with over 40 years of industry experience, with multiple offices throughout Canada, including offices in Burnaby and Vernon, British Columbia. Much like KCC Architecture, they are capable of servicing many building sectors, and they take pride in their client satisfaction. They also take similar pride in their reputation for delivering projects on time and on budget. FEBRUARY 2025
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The next step KCC Architecture has a dedicated team of seven, including Karla. She envisions adding a couple more members to enhance the team’s capabilities, but plans to maintain the firm’s boutique character thereafter. Karla values the intimate nature of their practice, and the personal connections to clients and consultants. She believes that significant growth could jeopardize the unique qualities that set them apart in the industry. “I have no interest in producing cookie cutter buildings,” she explains. “My focus is on quality and delivering unique results. This doesn’t mean that projects need to have an expensive budget – rather, they should leverage, enhance, and thoughtfully design every resource available.” Currently, Karla and her team are enthusiastic about mid-rise office buildings and are also interested in pursuing similar projects to FEBRUARY 2025
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FEBRUARY 2025 those they’ve successfully completed in the past. Initially, it was challenging to secure those types of projects, as clients often went to architects with established track records. However, after nearly a decade in business, the firm has cultivated a portfolio of completed projects that demonstrate their capabilities. “In many ways, I finally feel grounded,” Karla reflects. “We have work to showcase, we have received recognition for our work, and we have a record of happy clients. We’ve proven ourselves in this industry.” She continues, “KCC is still a young firm, but we’re maturing and ready to take the next steps. That’s exactly what we’re focusing on now. We’re redeveloping a new website to highlight our latest projects, showcasing our design, and confidently stepping into the future.”
THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA For more on KCC Architecture, their story, their architectural approach, and their past and present projects – and to connect with Karla and her team – visit https://kccarchitecture.com/
Trace Consulting Group (TCG) is a national consulting engineering firm with proficiency in various disciplines, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, fire protection, and building envelope. Since being founded in 2015, they have developed an unrivalled expertise in capital system and equipment replacements, retrofits, renovations, tenant fit-outs, mostly for clients in the multi-residential, commercial, retail, and industrial sectors. In each of those sectors, they have built a reputation for their professionalism and reliability, and their diligence has been consistently rewarded with referrals, repeat work, and sustained growth. “Our proven track record of success underscores our steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional results for our clients,” says Sam Soltani, founder and president. “When clients choose TCG for their engineering needs, they can rest assured they’re partnering with a team of seasoned professionals dedicated to delivering top-quality services.” TCG was originally an offshoot of Trace Engineering, a Toronto-based firm specializing in new construction of multi-residential, long-term care, commercial, and industrial buildings. When TCG ended up focusing more on retrofits, the two companies decided to separate on good terms. The two companies worked in the same office for about the next four years, but TCG’s steady growth eventually required them to move to new premises. They now employ about 40 people and counting, who work in their own space in Vaughan. In addition to growing their personnel, TCG FEBRUARY 2025
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has also steadily grown their service offering. Initially, they were only mechanical and electrical engineers. A couple years ago, they added fire protection and building envelope engineering services to their capabilities. They also recently established a sister company, called Trace Fire Group (TFG), which provides engineering, testing and verification services. The company’s geographic reach has expanded, too. About midway through last year, they opened an office in British Columbia, where they now have a few full-time staff. These days, in both Ontario and BC, TCG works primarily on multi-residential projects, as well as the commercial, retail, and industrial sectors. The vast majority of their work is on existing infrastructure. When it comes to new construction, Sam says they will “do the odd project here and there for the right client,” but typically they work with owners and managers of existing properties. “Most of what we do is to cater to existing buildings,” he explains. “We do a lot of capital planning and reserve fund planning, which then leads to design, tender, and project management for replacement of capital equipment and system replacements.” According to Sam, working within that retrofit niche makes TCG relatively unique: “Most of the engineers that are out there deal with either a different type of infrastructure – like roads and bridges – or they deal with all new construction,” he says. “What sets us apart is we are really focused on existing infrastructure.” TCG is also very “forward-thinking,” Sam adds FEBRUARY 2025
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