Waterloo-based developer and property manager Prica Global Enterprises (PGE) is nearing completion on two rental housing developments in record time thanks to advanced cloud technologies that enabled the integration of construction partners and teams in a unique phased approach.
“The challenge in constructing any building, let alone projects that can be completed efficiently, is the time spent collaborating and coordinating multiple construction teams,” says Bruno Pinto, Project Manager at Prica Group Construction Management (PGCM). “Through our use of the most modern cloud technologies, integrating BIM designs with construction teams occurred daily and in real time. It made for faster and more effective construction for all, as did sourcing more local, Canadian materials, rather than relying on overseas distributors that might take far longer to deliver their products.”
Both developments will relieve pressure on the overheated Waterloo rental market, which the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) reported to be at record low vacancy rates in early 2023.
“We’re proud to bring two developments to market so quickly after their shovels first went into the ground,” says Dusan Dukanc, Project Manager for PGCM. “We’re excited to help students, young professionals, and families find their homes in today’s tough rental market,” he adds.
308 King St. N (pictured above) is comprised of 340 rental units and 14 commercial rental spaces. Construction began in January 2022, with occupancy now underway. While the average construction time for a building of this size is approximately 42 months, the 20-month timeframe was accomplished using a unique three-phased approach to construction whereby the lower levels of the building were completed and furnished first before attention was directed upwards to the higher storeys.
The building features a rooftop amenity space as well as a park and garden on its east podium, and is designed to resemble a tree in the midst of an urban landscape. Its orientation, windows, and building envelope are based on the principles of phototropism – the way in which living things respond to light.
298 Hemlock St. (pictured left) is a six-storey building comprising 92 rental units with office space on the ground level. It was constructed efficiently in just 10 months, well below the average construction time 18 to 24 months for a building of this scale. Building orientation for this property was based on the Danish concept of hygge – using space and surroundings to establish feelings of joy, vitality, and coziness.
The PGE team prides itself on embracing new technologies, from innovative geothermal energy and heating systems to the integration of social and affordable housing into residential neighbourhoods and commercial buildings. Find out more at: Property Development | Prica Global Enterprises Inc. | Waterloo
