Russell Reid Public School

In 2012, Brantford’s Russell Reid Public School embarked on a project to expand with a new three-classroom addition using precast construction. However, during the planning phase, the project team realized that the costs associated with the original design were far too high, necessitating significant cost reductions while still preserving the structure’s quality and design.

The challenge was not only managing costs but also ensuring that the 3,530-square-foot addition had an exterior that was visually appealing, which can often come at a premium with traditional building materials.

To solve this, Tilt Wall Ontario was selected as the ideal solution. This method allowed the school to achieve the benefits of precast construction—such as durability and efficiency—without the associated high costs. Nineteen tilt-up panels were cast using ashlar stone form liners and stucco, creating an aesthetically pleasing exterior while also streamlining the construction process. This approach helped reduce the number of trades involved and cut down on project timelines, ultimately delivering a cost-effective solution that met both Russell Reid’s functional and visual requirements. The result was a successful expansion that stayed within budget while maintaining a high standard of design, maximizing value, and ensuring long-term sustainability for the school’s growing needs.