More Than a Build: How Scott Builders Constructed a Home with Heart at Pine Valley Seniors Lodge

When construction began on the Pine Valley Seniors Lodge in Hinton, Alberta, the Scott Builders team knew this project required more than just precision and planning. With 20 seniors still living in the original lodge on site, it wasn't just a job site—it was someone's home. That realization shaped every decision, every schedule, and every step of communication over the course of the nearly three-year, $32 million, 102,000 sq. ft. design-build project.

Not Just Occupied—Lived In

The biggest challenge? Building around life in progress. The team carefully phased the construction into five stages: completing Phases 1 and 2 so residents could be relocated before the old lodge was demolished, then completing Phases 3–5. Throughout, our team maintained essential services like heat, water, and emergency access. Every move required consideration not just of logistics—but of lives.

Meticulous planning enabled seamless transitions while maintaining undisrupted care and operational continuity. This precise phased execution wasn't just about construction sequencing—it was about ensuring residents felt secure throughout the entire process.

Connection in a Time of Distance

When the pandemic hit, traditional communication broke down. Face-to-face meetings and site tours weren't possible. But the Scott Builders team adapted with creative community engagement solutions. Our team created narrated video walkthroughs specifically designed for seniors and iPad tours so residents could preview their future spaces in real time, safely fostering confidence and minimizing uncertainty.

It wasn't just helpful—it was heartwarming. Residents responded with homemade Christmas cards, tea, cookies, and even a winter coat for a person on the team. The connection was mutual and deeply felt.

Built to Last (and to Love)

The Scott Builders team partnered with ACU Build for innovative prefabricated LVL (laminated veneer lumber) construction, delivering exceptional results. Using this advanced approach, we cut framing time nearly in half—four months instead of the expected nine and a half—while achieving:

• 95% reduction in material shrinkage by eliminating wood studs
• 5-month schedule savings with streamlined framing process
• Zero structural defects and enhanced long-term durability

The result? A rock-solid structure with zero warranty callbacks, better insulation, and a quieter, more stable home for its residents. No shrinkage cracks, no movement issues—just superior construction quality.

More Than Amenities—A Meaningful Life

This isn’t just a place to live. It is a place to thrive. The completed facility includes:

• 100 suites, including 20 independent living and 80 SL4/SL4D care studios
• A pub, bistro, yoga studio, greenhouse, koi pond, putting green, and even a skating rink
• Puzzle rooms on every floor, a hair salon, arts & crafts spaces, and family meeting rooms

Even the planters were custom-built and delivered by Scott’s own team—because the little touches matter.

Budget Integrity & Community Success

Through careful management of project enhancements that brought the final investment from $29.3M to $32M, the Scott Builders team maintained client satisfaction through transparent communication and a commitment to quality. Our phased approach minimized disruptions and ultimately delivered a facility that exceeded expectations.

Key Takeaways

• 5-Month Time Savings: Thanks to LVL prefab construction.
• Zero Defects: No shrinkage, no cracks, no callbacks.
• Innovation Benchmark: Demonstrated viability of prefab LVL construction for large-scale residential projects
• True Community Impact: Residents felt seen, heard, and supported.

A New Benchmark for Senior Living

The Pine Valley project is a model for how complex, occupied construction can succeed—technically, logistically, and emotionally. Scott Builders didn’t just build a facility. The team built trust, comfort, and community.

Partner with Scott Builders for your next construction project. Contact us to learn how our tailored design-build solutions can turn your vision into reality.