cavcon, Author at Cavcon

AN UNDERSEA ADVENTURE AWAITS

May 9, 2016

by cavcon Blogs

There aren’t many people who say they enjoy going to the dentist. But, one dentist wanted to change that perception for her young patients. Dr. Beatriz De La Roche of Tender Care Pediatric Dentistry wanted to make a difference to the children who enter the doors to her pediatric dental practice by providing a positive atmosphere. Her vision was to create a place where kids could come, play and have fun at the dentist.

Child-friendly diversions like 3D murals and the latest video games help kids look forward to dental visits. Even the dental rooms provide a different atmosphere such as being in a rain forest, on an African safari, or being among pandas or dinosaurs.

You may wonder what this has to do with construction. A customized project such as this is about understanding who your audience is and creating an environment and place where they can feel comfortable.

Working with architect, Peter Cecconi, CAVCON brought to life Dr. De La Roche’s vision to of a practice where kids felt comfortable and wanted to come. Traits are often learned at an early age, and if there was a way to calm a young child in their trip to the dentist, Dr. De La Roche wanted to accomplish that.

The underwater adventure was customized and incorporated a brushing wall, complete with mirrors within multiple fish. The 3D murals featured a surfer and other underwater animals. There was no attention to detail spared in this one-of-a kind dentistry practice.

When building for a younger audience, there were plenty of things we kept in mind. Pediatric healthcare facilities are distinctive for their age adaptive design, detailing that engages a child’s imagination and a child-scaled environment.

CAVCON utilizes these concepts in our building projects today. Not only do we account for what a client may want, but in many cases, we are taking into consideration who their audience is, or who their employees may be.

As new generations enter the workforce, there has been a shift in the traditional office cubical to more shared spaces and glass conference areas. Collaboration among peers is important. For the employer, it means providing the right environment to attract young talent. Employees enjoy coming to work in a place that is aesthetically pleasing. The result is a positive employee morale.

When you think about your audience and your customers, are you updating dated facilities, adding amenities to waiting areas, creating a comfortable space for children to play, and tailoring your facility toward customer needs and wants? If a customer feels comfortable, they will want to come back for more. If employees enjoy their work environment, they will be more productive.

Dr. De La Roche found the right combination of underwater adventure to put her young patients at ease. The result…a bright and happy workplace for her staff and a welcoming environment for the young patients and their families who walk through her practice doors.

About CAVCON: CAVCON brings together three generations of Building Owners/Managers and General Contractors with Design/Build expertise focusing on Medical, Commercial, Retail, Manufacturing and Light Industrial projects. As a full-service merit shop general construction company CAVCON provides design-build services incorporating value engineering, collaborative modeling and turn-key general construction services to deliver the best outcomes for our clients.

BUILDING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

May 6, 2016

by cavcon Blogs

In 2010 Baby Boomers made up more than 50% of the workforce. By the year 2020 the Baby Boomers will be outnumbered by Millennials. With this shift, we have begun to see a change in the workspace in which employees like to work. Companies who seek out today’s top talent, particularly in the tech industry are shifting their culture and workplace environment.

Millennials are characterized as being highly tech savvy, engaged and social. These characteristics lend them being more productive when they are able to change their workplace setting, allowing them to work in groups and be more social. Café’s, lounges, and more technology friendly workspaces have proven to increase productivity for this generation. These demographic changes in the average employee are changing the landscape of the office, from the high walls and closed off offices, to the open floor plans and technologically advanced buildings with green sustainability.

As millennials begin to become the leading generation in the workplace, the construction industry has experienced an increase in building renovations. Although this younger generation is gravitating toward the historic buildings in downtown areas, they are leaving the outside architecture of the building to represent the historic landmarks that they are known for. But, they are renovating the inside space to consist of a more functional, comfortable, high tech work environment.

Millennials have a strong desire to collaborate and it is through this collaboration that interior walls are coming down. Unlike the boomers, they are not characteristically a generation that thrives on isolation within a cubical or office. Companies have seen the increase in productivity when the employees work together rather than separate, which has led to an increase in open areas and informal meeting areas.

Increased usage of informal meeting areas and work areas is decreasing the time that employees spend at their desk. As a result of this there is less of a need to have large lavish cubical or office space for employees. Offices have seen a decrease of around 30-40% in floor space designated for personal work space, allowing companies to shrink the floor space required for their company, reducing their required office space and overall operating costs.

In 2001 the average space allocated per worker was 300 sq. ft. This number dropped to 225 sq. ft. in 2010 and in 2012 continued to drop to 176 sq. ft. according to CoreNet Global. Companies estimate that the average work space allotted per employee could go as low as 100 sq. ft. if the trends continue. This decrease has led businesses to be more profitable by reducing their overhead cost of office space required.

As millennials continue to command space in the workplace, it is expected that there will be an increase in renovations done by companies to keep up with the newer high tech trends. Opening up floor plans, changing lighting and creating more informal workplaces are just a few ways we will begin to see the workplace of today change.

BUILD QUICKER – OPEN SOONER – MAKE MORE MONEY!

April 27, 2016

by cavcon Blogs

Modular Construction: Project: Williams Scotsman Corporate Headquarters Location: Baltimore, MD, Use: Administrative Size: 70,080 square feet, Start to Finish: Nine months image credit: Williams Scotsman — Project: Williams Scotsman Corporate Headquarters
Location: Baltimore, MD, Use: Administrative
Size: 70,080 square feet, Start to Finish: Nine months
image credit: Williams Scotsman

What if you knew your building project timeline could be cut in half, your costs for construction were less, and you were able to open for business sooner with incoming revenue? To top it all off, sustainability and LEED were incorporated into the project.

Modular space solutions are more than box like structures, they can be custom built to allow unmatched flexibility and adaptability, proving that form need not be sacrificed for function. Custom interior finishes can be incorporated into the overall design of the project. Designs can be tailored to your individual needs, with unique elements and details that enable usability, as well as single story and multi-story configurability, and can be re-used over time.

This type of construction incorporates technical innovation into an automated process that uses proven, standardized practices and process efficiencies. By allowing simultaneous production of site work, as well as interior construction it reduces the overall time to occupancy. The end result: A high quality, custom solution in less time than a conventional site-built project.

Removing approximately 80% of the building construction activity from the site location significantly reduces site disruption, vehicular traffic and improves overall safety and security. So, for schools, hospitals, or other active businesses, reducing on-site activity and thereby eliminating a large part of the ongoing construction hazards, is a tremendous advantage.

By simultaneously utilizing an onsite preparation and off-site interior build out, the solution is delivered in half the time. Modular solutions provide a collaborative effort between the client, contractor and modular solution provider.

Modular solutions are not limited to trailers on a job site, they have been used to create medical facilities, hotels, educational buildings, hospitality venues, retail establishments and more.

Components of a building are custom produced inside their factory, various inspections such as electrical can be done at the factory saving time and money. Adding to the efficiencies between 60-95% of a punch list can be completed prior to the unit leaving the factory saving finish time. Building in a controlled environment reduces waste through avoidance upstream rather than diversion downstream.

The bottom line…Modular Construction is greener, faster and smarter.

A CLOSER LOOK AT MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

April 27, 2016

by cavcon Blogs

Modular Construction is prevalent in many applications. Corporate headquarters, schools, airport terminals, hotels, medical facilities, student housing, childcare centers, research laboratories and retail centers.

These projects have ranged from 1,288 square feet with a finished project in less than a month, to corporate headquarters at 70,080 square feet with a finished project in nine months.

Modular construction can be comprised of wood, steel or hybrid options. Additionally, various framing types can be utilized: steel, wood, or steel and concrete framing to build the foundation for the building’s structure. All modular buildings meet the same stringent codes as site-built structures, have all the same amenities, plus they offer mobility and financial flexibility.

Building codes and third party inspections are performed on-site at the factory. This eliminates costly delays once the modular pieces arrive at the jobsite. Projects in various sectors have achieved LEED Certification.

In tandem, while the interior build out is taking place at the factory, site preparation is underway preparing for the modular units. This can include: soil tests, crawl space, footings, foundation work, and parking lot grade. By the time the interior is complete, the site work is complete as well. New project launches have saved up to 40% in start to finish time utilizing this type of construction.

In Modular Construction – attention is not lost in the details. Custom finishes and build outs occur just as they would in regular construction. There is no need to sacrifice style and comfort.

Here are some project profile examples of modular construction:

Project Profile – Healthcare

Project: York Memorial Hospital
Location: York, PA
Use: Medical Office Building, Sleep Lab, and Women’s Health Center
Size: 14,400 square feet
Start to Finish: Less than five months

York Memorial Hospital: – image credit: Williams Scotsman

Project Profile – Commercial

Project: Williams Scotsman Corporate Headquarters
Location: Baltimore, MD
Use: Administrative
Size: 70,080 square feet
Start to Finish: Nine months

Williams Scotsman Corporate Headquarters: image credit: Williams Scotsman

Project Profile – Retail

Project: Enterprise Rent-a-Car
Location: Pasadena, CA
Use: Retail Center
Size: 1,288 square feet
Start to Finish: Less than one month

Enterprise Rent-a-Car: image credit: Williams Scotsman

At CAVCON we can always build it your way utilizing modular construction.

STREAMLINING ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION

March 24, 2016

by cavcon Blogs

Adelphoi came into existence in 1971 when Fr. Paschal Morlino, a young Benedictine monk who was motivated by a desire to help troubled and homeless youth, set out with a plan to open a home for boys. It was through that plan that he created a place of hope and healing for boys whose lives had taken alternative paths.

Forty-five years and growing….today, Adelphoi provides an extensive network of community-based programs and services to over 950 youth and families on a daily basis. Group homes, foster/adoptive care, a charter school, in-home services such as multisystemic therapy, education programs, mental health services, secure care and other services overlap to provide a complete continuum of care to children, youth and families.

With 21 residential facilities, Adelphoi is the 15th largest service provider in the Pittsburgh region serving 2,500 kids and families annually and employs 650 people operating 28 programs in 32 counties.

Through a foundation grant, Adelphoi is meeting the growing demand for services, as well as streamlining and centralizing services on campus. The organization is renovating an existing building into a centralized health center and adding a group home which will adjoin the existing Benet Home, accommodating 15 youth. Through these upgrades; staff, kids and families will be more efficiently served.

Adelphoi Renovation - CAVCON- rebuild — Building renovations are already underway at Adelphoi.

John Duwall, Director of Facilities at Adelphoi, indicated that CAVCON had done previous renovations on the campus and the quality of the work, as well as pricing were contributing factors in choosing them as the contractor for these renovations. Communication with CAVCON staff has been excellent throughout the process. The health center renovation is ahead of schedule and they are now getting ready to break ground with the Benet Home addition.

Adelphoi intends to remain a leading force in the care and treatment of youth and families in crisis. Through the structural additions, as well as dedicated staff, they are positioned to do so for years to come.

CONSTRUCTING THE CHANGING LANDSCAPE OF HEALTHCARE

February 19, 2016

by cavcon Blogs

Healthcare has changed over the years to accommodate our aging population and with that comes construction of new facilities and upgrades in medical departments. Continuums of care offer senior living options in a campus like setting ranging from independent living, assisted living, dementia care and skilled nursing. The goal for the family is a self-contained community offering activities for those with independence, yet providing the daily living supports such as meal preparation and medication management for individuals needing some extra help. On-site physical therapy services provide added services for people that may need some assistance with mobility issues or to recover from a hospital procedure such as a knee replacement.

Many assisted living communities outside of a continuum of care are private pay and based on the family’s resources, the higher the price, the more deluxe the amenities are. Families do have options where they choose to live, and senior communities must regularly update and change the amenities to attract residents.

untitled-0024_5_6_7_8_9_fused — Physical Therapy Department

CAVCON has worked with HCF Management, Inc. in the construction of physical therapy departments and building additions to a variety of facilities throughout northwestern Pennsylvania. With the changes in medical reimbursement, facilities may look to convert skilled nursing beds to short term beds for rehabilitation stays following a hip or knee replacement. To accommodate these changes, it may also necessary to update and/or upgrade physical therapy departments.

As boomers continue to age, they will speak with their dollars and choices of care. From in-house beauty salons, entertainment areas, libraries to the choices in dining; you will see senior living communities continue to upgrade their ambiance to promote luxury living. Those offering the most options will more likely be the facilities that attract residents.

With healthcare reimbursements changing and healthcare systems and management companies owning multiple facilities, you will likely see specialized units and enhanced areas for inpatient, as well as outpatient physical therapy services. Whatever changes may be in store for these retirement communities, CAVCON will remain on the cutting edge of construction and renovation in the medical field.

AUTOMOTIVE DEALERSHIP UPGRADES

November 5, 2015

by cavcon Blogs

Have you purchased a new car recently or taken your car into the dealership for some maintenance and noticed your automotive dealership is undergoing renovation, upgrades or a reorganization? The Sendell Subaru Showroom in Greensburg is among the latest to upgrade their showroom and have contracted with CAVCON to convert their Buick dealership to a Sendell Subaru showroom.

Dealerships are not only being pushed by the auto manufacturers but also by their consumers to provide a stellar customer buying and service experience. Just as curb appeal helps sell homes, it also is key to luring in buyers. If a dealership is old and run down, customers may think they haven’t upgraded their computer systems and maintenance departments to better service new vehicles. After all, consumers have a choice where they spend their money.

Individual auto manufacturers have always looked for new ways to set their brand apart, as well as, strategies to attract buyers into their dealerships. In the last five years they have found that if the dealerships update their facility with sleek, state-of-the-art design, equipment and amenities the dealership is more likely to attract buyers. The manufacturers have also pushed dealers to upgrade their facilities thus, creating a unified look to promote the manufacturer’s brand.

Even when the economy was at a low point in 2008 many dealerships found themselves investing millions into renovations. Why you may ask? Well the answer is simple. Even at a time when less cars are being sold, dealerships want to show customers they are investing in the future and preparing to be the dealership of choice for years to come. They want their lots to be appealing to the eye and comfortable for the customers while waiting on vehicle maintenance or especially when closing a deal on a new set of wheels.

Peer pressure to conform as one dealership makes updates to their facility, also puts pressure on other dealerships and business around the area to spruce up and upgrade their facilities.

Sendell Subaru is among a list of dealerships CAVCON has renovated for Sendell Motors. CAVCON has designed and built VW, Honda, Mitsubishi and Buick dealerships for Sendell Motors as well. We work hand-in-hand with both the dealership and the auto manufacturer to ensure construction adherence to corporate specifications, as well as local dealer owner’s specifications. Because of CAVCON’s partnership with dealers and auto manufacturers, the consumer benefits. Their car buying experience and all the amenities at the dealership will be the best and most technologic ally advanced.

About CAVCON: CAVCON brings together three generations of Building Owners/Managers and General Contractors with Design/Build expertise focusing on Medical, Commercial, Retail, Manufacturing and Light Industrial projects. As a full-service merit shop general construction company CAVCON provides design-build services incorporating value engineering, collaborative modeling and turn-key general construction services to deliver the best outcomes for our clients.

SUSAN BRIMO COX GLASS STUDIO HONORS LOCAL ARTIST

October 30, 2015

by cavcon Press Releases

Touchstone Center for Crafts is Pennsylvania’s only residential arts and craft center where individuals can take classes and stay on campus recently dedicated Susan Brimo Cox Glass Studio to honor a local artist. Created in 1972, Touchstone Center for Crafts was originally known as Pioneer Crafts Council which was founded by two Pittsburgh women Francis Balter and Agnes Kinard.

This unique craft school has expanded to include contemporary and experimental techniques, in addition to the traditional and historic methods in disciplines such as blacksmithing, ceramics, metals, textiles, glass, oil and watercolor painting, photography, printmaking and sculpture. As Pennsylvania’s only residential craft school, Touchstone offers both beginners and seasoned artists more than one hundred week-long and weekend courses taught by some of North America’s finest artists and artisans.

Mary Len Hajduk, President of the Board of Directors, described the destruction of the Old Red Barn’s structure in 2010 where a snow storm severely damaged the building’s roof. Since that time, the damaged structure prohibited the organization from offering any significant glass classes. Only during the past year has funding become available that will cover the cost of the construction of a new glass studio. The facility will feature state-of-the-art equipment and kilns, offering an excellent place to conduct classes. The Old Red Barn was demolished last year and the wood from the barn will be repurposed into other construction projects.

The contemporary studio glass movement has caught the imagination of the public more than any craft form in the last decade, and remains an essential component to the resurgent interest in craft processes. Shauna Soom, Executive Director for the center stated the following, “Until our facility (the Red Barn) was severely damaged in 2010, Touchstone offered a wide array of glass workshops and was poised to benefit from the increasing public interest in glassmaking. With the new energy-efficient and well-equipped glass education studio, Touchstone will again be able to provide a diverse and extensive offering of glass workshops in an inviting, environmentally healthy, and responsible setting. Ultimately, this new facility will serve as a regional model for the synthesis of environmental stewardship and visual arts education.

Susan Brimo-Cox dedication 10-03-15 — Left side front, left to right: Sarah Stopyra, Shawn Fischer, Carolyn Danus. Left side back, left to right: Frank Golba, Touchstone Center for Crafts (TCC) Board of Director’s Past President Dan Fischer, Aaron Lane, Lloyd Cox. Right side, left to right: Kevin Kopp, Dolores Kopp, Monica Saffri, Mary Len Hajduk, TCC Board of Director’s President Shauna Soom, TCC Executive Director

The objective of the project was to construct and equip an environmentally responsible glass education studio on Touchstone’s campus. This studio will efficiently provide educational programming in a variety of glass-making techniques to more than 150 participants every season. Based on technical counsel from a wide range of glass artists in the region, we have identified the equipment necessary to make our new glass studio an energy-efficient educational destination for glass artists. With high-quality equipment for lampworking, cold working, slumping, fusing, and stained glass, Touchstone will re-emerge as a regional focal point for exploration and creativity in this most dynamic medium.”

Soom further commented that throughout the bidding process, CAVCON, the contractor chosen for the project, worked closely with Touchstone regarding the project. They were responsive, and the comprehensive team they involved in the estimation process (HVAC, architects, surveyors, estimators, etc.) was exceptional.

Mike Phillips, President of CAVCON, indicated the design/build services CAVCON offers facilitated conversations and modifications for particular pieces of glass equipment and energy efficiencies allowing for adjustments to building plans prior to the onset of construction, saving the organization time and money.

The project received approval from the local commissioners and construction begin in the spring of 2015. Susan Brimo Cox, a recognized glass artist loved Touchtone Center for Crafts. She was diagnosed with cancer in 2011 and passed away in 2012. In Susan’s memory, her family made a generous donation to the center. The project was completed in late summer and the new facility was dedicated in the fall of 2015 as The Susan Brimo Cox Glass Studio in her honor.

About Touchstone: Touchstone is located in Farmington, Pennsylvania, amid the natural splendor of the Laurel Highlands. Founded in 1972 as the Pioneer Crafts Council, Touchstone’s original mission was to foster interest in the preservation of the traditional craft forms and culture of the Appalachian region. Touchstone provides underserved audiences in the region, from senior citizens to public school students, with craft-centered educational programming. Touchstone’s artistic, educational, and residential facilities sit on 150 acres of lush woodlands and pristine wilderness. Not only is Touchstone Center for Crafts the only residential craft school in Pennsylvania, it’s the natural setting for your creative nature.

Cavcon

All posts by : cavcon

AN UNDERSEA ADVENTURE AWAITS

BUILDING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

BUILD QUICKER – OPEN SOONER – MAKE MORE MONEY!

The bottom line…Modular Construction is greener, faster and smarter.