Originally opened in 1959, the Oakridge Centre was one of Vancouver’s first major shopping malls, featuring a mix of retail stores, restaurants, and community spaces. Over the years, it became a social hub, attracting residents from the surrounding neighbourhoods. However, by the 2000s, the mall faced challenges common to aging retail spaces, prompting discussions about its future. 

In 2015, the City of Vancouver approved a redevelopment plan to revitalize the area while preserving its community spirit. Spanning 28 acres, the project includes residential buildings, shops, parks, and community amenities such as green areas to encourage outdoor activities and social interaction. 

One of the key features of the redevelopment is the construction of two main residential buildings:

• The North Building is designed for sustainability, featuring energy-efficient systems and green roofs that align with the city’s ecological goals. Rising 20 stories, it will offer over 200 residential units, combining market and affordable housing, while maximizing natural light and providing stunning views of the mountains and urban landscape. Additionally, the ground floor will host commercial spaces, promoting local businesses and enhancing the community’s economic vitality, ensuring residents have convenient access to shops, cafes, and essential services.
• The South Building rises 30 stories with a contemporary architectural design, offering a diverse range of housing options for families, singles, and seniors. Emphasizing open spaces and communal areas, it fosters a strong sense of community among residents. Sustainability is a key focus, incorporating advanced energy systems and eco-friendly materials to minimize its carbon footprint. Additionally, the building will feature wellness-oriented amenities such as fitness centers, rooftop gardens, and communal lounges, promoting an active and connected lifestyle.

Dewick & Associates have provided the Mechanical O&M Manuals for the North Building, and will subsequently the South Building. Our in-house Technical Writing team have authored bespoke and building-specific system descriptions for the mechanical installation including:

• Fuel oil systems and heating hot water systems
• Chillers and associated pumps and ancillaries
• ChW / HHW air handling units and fan coil units
• Ventilation systems including those serving:
  • End of trip facilities
  • Stair pressurisation
  • Parkade and plantroom
  • Amenities and general areas
• Trench and perimeter heating
• Stormwater and detention systems
• Sanitary drainage systems including PDTS separators and grease interceptors
• Domestic hot and cold water systems

Our understanding and detailed knowledge of each system, its components, and the intricate method of operation / system interconnection is critical to ensuring detailed and comprehensive documentation. 

All of our O&M manuals include the relevant standards and legislation along with detailed maintenance log sheets appropriate to each item of plant and equipment.  On completion of the project, we will collate and insert all final Shop Drawings, Certificates, Test Reports and As Installed Drawings to provide a comprehensive and complete set of documentation.

It is a privilege to be part of a project that will benefit Vancouver and British Columbia residents into the future.

Mechanical Services Contractor:  Professional Mechanical Ltd

Click here to download a PDF Case Study of this project