The 350,000 sq. ft. former American Express Canadian Headquarters at 101 McNabb, Markham, ON, was purchased, revitalized and redeveloped by Crown Realty and OP Trust.

Gillam was originally awarded after a competitive tender process the first phase which converted 125,000 sq. ft. of the building back to base building. The success of phase one resulted in four additional phases of additions and renovations. This additional work was done in an open and transparent manner providing the client and ultimate tenants best value and best schedule delivery. This was the first major office facility of this size to go complete LED lighting in the office spaces, meeting the LEED EB Standard.

The added phases included reconfiguration of the main fire exit and opening up the lowest level walls with windows, thereby making 25,000 sq. ft. more desirable for higher rents. Subsequent works included a new Fitness Centre, redevelopment of the main entrance, new office space and site works.

Key challenges included:

  1. Working according to a highly compressed “fast track” schedule
  2. Working is a very flexible way where changes in tenant needs were incorporated into the overall schedule
  3. Procuring the works and commencing construction based on partial scope certainty
  4. Coordinating the works with tenant contractors

All work was performed on a fast track basis, thereby allowing the major banking tenant to move in on schedule.

*This project was nominated for a “Best of the Best” award by NAIOP.