The completion of a 338-unit residential development in Burnaby adds housing capacity to the region while demonstrating the coordination required for projects combining high-rise and wood-frame construction. Graham Construction & Engineering completed O2 Metrotown as construction manager and general contractor for Keltic Development.
O2 Metrotown consists of a 285-unit residential tower alongside a five-story wood-framed building containing 53 rental units. Both structures are positioned above a four-level underground parking garage.
Graham Construction & Engineering supported the development from preconstruction through completion. Early project work included concept design development and assistance with City of Burnaby approvals before construction advanced into delivery.
The project required coordination between the tower, wood-frame residential building and below-grade parking structure, creating a construction program with multiple structural and building-system requirements.
The development incorporates design elements aligned with the WELL Building Standard, including systems intended to address indoor air quality, water quality and thermal comfort.
Residential suites include commercial-grade air purification, water filtration and variable refrigerant flow heating and cooling systems. The project also provides dedicated work areas and open-concept residential layouts.
Approximately 7,200 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities are included across the development. These spaces include a fitness center, yoga studio, children's play area, rooftop urban garden and social areas.
Public art and nature-focused elements are also incorporated throughout the development, including artwork by Musqueam artist Thomas Cannell.
The project demonstrates the delivery requirements associated with urban residential developments that combine high-rise construction, wood-frame housing, underground parking and specialized mechanical systems.
For developers and construction owners, early coordination of design development, municipal approvals and building-system requirements can be important to managing complex residential projects. Graham Construction & Engineering's completion of O2 Metrotown also represents its second collaboration with Keltic Development, following The Paramount project in Richmond, British Columbia.
The inclusion of both conventional residential units and dedicated rental housing within the 338-unit development reflects the range of housing components that can be incorporated into large urban residential programs.
Source: Graham Builds.
