CoolTranz Distribution Warehouse & Offices - A Collaborative Design & Build Success Story

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Project Overview:

The CoolTranz project in Hornby, Christchurch, exemplifies a modern, high-quality industrial facility designed with operational efficiency and employee well-being in mind. Completed in two stages, the development includes a 1,700-square-metre cool store equipped with eight insulated loading docks, facilitating seamless logistics operations. The second stage features a purpose-built office space that prioritizes staff comfort, featuring custom plaster walls, tiled bathrooms, a modern kitchen, and outdoor areas with bespoke brickwork and louvres. This phased approach allowed CoolTranz to maintain uninterrupted operations during construction. The project reflects the client's commitment to excellence, setting a new standard for industrial workplaces in the region. A third stage, now completed, includes a fuel depot, further enhancing the facility's operational capabilities.

• Stage 1: A 1700m² cool storage distribution center featuring eight loading docks, each equipped with sectional insulated doors, inflatable dock seals, and hydraulic dock levellers.

• Stage 2: A purpose-built office building designed to prioritize comfort and functionality for staff and truck drivers. Stage 2 was constructed while working in a live environment so maintaining a safe work environment was paramount. This stage incorporated custom and architecturally designed elements including:
  • Fully tiled showers and bathrooms.
  • Hand crafted vanities.
  • Custom louver system.
  • Rendered concrete plaster finish.
  • Expertly crafted kitchen and recreation areas.
  • A steel art wall depicting the journey of CoolTranz in the design.‍
• Stage 3: A fuel depot enhancing the facility's operational capabilities.

Challenges Overcome:

• Logistical Coordination: Coordinating the delivery of internationally sourced materials required careful planning and mitigation strategies to ensure timely completion.
• Live Environment: Maintaining a safe working environment was paramount. Procore facilitated effective tracking and reporting of safety incidents and hazards.

Tools and Technologies:

• Procore: This construction management software provided a platform for communication, collaboration, managing financials, invoices, and design coordination.
• Last Planner System: This project management method facilitated collaborative task planning between trade contractors, project managers, and stakeholders, ensuring clear workflows, accountability, and improved project delivery.

Project Delivery Method:

• Stage 1: 1700m2 Coolstore warehouse and truck wash, completed December 2023
• Stage 2: 433m2 Office block, completed in October 2024
• Stage 3 : Fuel depot, currently under construction

Conclusion:

This project is a testament to our collaborative approach, efficient project management practices, and commitment to client satisfaction. By combining innovative tools, teamwork, and meticulous design, we delivered a high-quality facility that exceeds CoolTranz's expectations and paves the way for their future expansion.

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