---
title: Design-Build Warehouse Project | Acheson, Alberta Case Study
description: A 61,000 sq ft warehouse and office completed on time and within budget. A design-build approach that maximized efficiency and transparency.
---

[Construction Project Case Studies | Scott Builders ](https://scottbuilders.com/case-studies)

# [Design-Build Warehouse Project | Acheson, Alberta Case Study](https://scottbuilders.com/case-studies/stihl-warehouse-office-acheson-ab)

 Written by [Scott Builders](https://scottbuilders.com/case-studies/author/scott-builders) | Dec 19, 2025 7:14:23 PM

 

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#### **A Bold Build Begins: From Concept to Completion in 11 Months**

In December 2018, STIHL set out to expand its footprint in Western Canada with a brand-new distribution warehouse and office in Acheson, Alberta. The challenge? Deliver a 64,770 sq. ft. facility combining operational scale with modern design within a tight timeline and a fixed budget. With Scott Builders leading the design-build delivery and Laviolette Engineering as the consulting engineer, the team brought STIHL’s vision to life ahead of winter’s deadlines and operational expectations.

#### **Executive Summary: Strategic Build, Seamless Delivery**

Scott Builders successfully delivered the STIHL warehouse and office project with a scope that included:

- **Facility Size: **61,270 sq. ft. warehouse and 3,500 sq. ft. office
- **Site Development: **7.6-acre parcel in Acheson, Alberta
- **Contract Model:** Design-build contract (CCDC #14) with Laviolette Engineering
- **Project Timeline: **February 2019 to November 2019 
- **Construction Budget:** $7.5M original | $7.8M final

Despite the winter start and site complexities, the team completed the facility on time and within expectations, delivering a durable, high-performance space that now serves as a cornerstone for STIHL’s regional logistics.

#### **Building for Growth: A Distribution Hub with Office Integration**

The facility was designed to streamline STIHL’s operations in Alberta and beyond. The design-build warehouse features high-bay racking, heavy-duty floor systems, and multiple dock doors to accommodate inventory movement and shipping. The 3,500 sq. ft. office provides a polished space for staff, complete with branded interiors and direct connectivity to the warehouse.

As the design-builder, Scott Builders coordinated closely with Laviolette Engineering to optimize every square foot. From the pre-engineered steel structure of the warehouse to low-maintenance finishes in the office, the entire facility was planned to meet STIHL’s current and future needs — with room to grow.

#### **Meeting the Moment: How the Team Tackled Winter, Scale, and Speed**

Several critical factors shaped the project’s complexity:

- **Winter Conditions:** Groundwork began in December, requiring heated enclosures, concrete protection, and adjusted site logistics.
- **Tight Turnaround:** With an 11-month schedule, decisions had to be streamlined and site execution carefully phased.
- **Large-site Coordination:** Managing utilities, two distinct building programs (warehouse and office), and site paving across 7.6 acres demanded exceptional planning.
- **Durability Demands:** Heavy equipment use required specialized slab design, floor flatness control, and enhanced envelope performance.
- **Mid-project Adjustments:** Scope additions, such as interior layout changes, had to be incorporated quickly, without slowing momentum.

#### **Built to Perform: Design-Build Solutions That Delivered**

Scott Builders' solutions-focused approach made the difference:

- **Design-Build Synergy:** By overlapping the design and construction phases, the team saved time and increased flexibility. Early site grading began while interior plans were still being finalized.
- **Cold-Weather Readiness:** The team used ground thaw systems, heated tents, and strategic scheduling to maintain progress through freezing conditions.
- **Dedicated Site Management:** Superintendent Henry Oomen ran a lean, well-coordinated site, with daily check-ins and lookahead scheduling across crews and trades.
- **Cost Control with Transparency:** Despite a small increase to $7.8M, all changes were value-added and tracked with client approval.
- **Fit-for-Purpose Construction:** Reinforced slab design, energy-efficient LED lighting, and thoughtful interior detailing created a durable, professional space aligned with STIHL’s operations and brand.

“This project was the definition of teamwork and adaptability,” says Dan O’Hara, Project Manager. “From sub-zero temperatures to evolving client needs, we worked as one team to keep the project on time and aligned with STIHL’s goals.”

#### **Results That Speak: On Time, On Brand, and Built to Last**

By November 2019, the project was turned over and fully operational. Highlights include:

- **On-Time Turnover:** Delivered in 11 months despite a winter start.
- **Functional Efficiency:** The layout, racking readiness, and dock configuration were tailored to STIHL’s logistics model.
- **Branded Space:** The office interior reflects STIHL’s identity, creating cohesion across client visits and employee experience.
- **Satisfied Client:** STIHL expressed full satisfaction with both the quality and pace of delivery, an outcome made possible by open communication and clear expectations from start to finish.

#### **More Than a Building: A Lasting Partnership**

The STIHL warehouse and office project is a prime example of Scott Builders’ ability to deliver design-build solutions with speed, quality, and care. It also reflects a commitment to long-term client relationships. From navigating design decisions to managing winter build constraints, the project was a masterclass in collaboration.

#### **Let’s Build Your Next Success**

Whether you’re launching a logistics hub, industrial facility, or office build, Scott Builders is ready to partner with you. Our design-build team brings experience, transparency, and results to every project — just ask STIHL.

[**Contact us today**](https://scottbuilders.com/contact) to learn how we can help bring your next project to life.

[View full post](https://scottbuilders.com/case-studies/stihl-warehouse-office-acheson-ab)

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