Hullmark Developments appointed Gillam as the construction manager to perform an adaptive re-use projects to a group of three interconnected buildings totaling about 35,000 sq.ft., including the former Museum of Modern Art, at 952 Queen Street West in Toronto.

The scope of work included extensive base building upgrades, exterior building envelope and a tenant fit-up for a creative brand-building company called Sid Lee. The work included new foundations, major structural works, new elevator, interior stairs, curtainwall, mechanical & electrical services and rooftop patio. The works were delivered in a phased manner, requiring the phase 2 works to be delivered within an occupied building. Great care and attention was taken with respect to avoiding disruption to adjacent occupied spaces and the community as a whole. Because of the tight site, “just in time” management techniques were required.

Key challenges included the following:

  1. Identifying and mitigating risks from site conditions, many of which were identified and addressed during the preconstruction stage
  2. Managing site conditions found during construction, in the context of a tight schedule and budget
  3. Managing restricted site access, in a busy part of the city within a sensitive neighborhood
  4. Minimizing disruption to the community during the project
  5. Working within occupied premises