Sydney River, Nova Scotia

This $18 million project provides long-term care for 268 residents living in 11 separate neighbourhoods spread out in four distinct building wings, all connected by a service link section including laundry and kitchen facilities, a boiler room, and other service areas.

Designed by the architecture firm Harvey & MacKenzie, and built by Rideau for Shannex Healthcare, the unique building was constructed using 140 insulated tilt-up panels, 42 uninsulated tilt-up panels and a structural steel frame roof.

The uninsulated panels are covered with a brick facade. The exterior "look" of all Shannex's new buildings being constructed are modelled after Parkland Estates, an award winning retirement complex constructed for Shannex by Rideau in 1998. Inside the walls are a durable painted concrete that means less chance of mold growth and related health concerns for residents.

The project was completed on schedule in the Fall of 2002.