Halifax, N.S.

This expansion to the original design by BMR included a two-level cast-in-place concrete framed addition to the existing hospital complex, as well as a four-level, 650 stall pre-cast parking garage. New interior space for the hospital expansion accommodates retail outlets, additional laboratory space and a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Centre.

A strict performance criterion was required for the new MRI equipment and its powerful 15,000-pound magnet. BMR’s solution was to create a steel-free structural environment in the floor, walls and ceiling. A cutting-edge, fiber-reinforced polymer replaced the standard steel reinforcing within the floor slab in this area. The room dimensions were designed to keep the wall and ceiling steel structures away from the draw of this powerful magnet. In spite of the unique challenges of this project, construction was completed one-month ahead of schedule.