An Insider's View: Overcoming Real-World Challenges at Wildlight Kitchen + Bar
An Insider's View: Overcoming Real-World Challenges at Wildlight Kitchen + Bar
While case studies often focus on the successes of a project, it's important to acknowledge the real challenges that had to be overcome to achieve those successes. The Wildlight Kitchen + Bar patio project was no exception. We faced several complex obstacles, and it was our team's adaptability, persistence and collaboration that ensured the project's ultimate success.
1. Integration Without Compromise
One of the biggest challenges was ensuring that the patio structure, which had to be independent of the base building, didn’t look like an afterthought. This required precision in both design and execution. By using customized flashing details and carefully matching the color of the base building, we were able to create the illusion that the patio was seamlessly connected. The result? A structure that appears integrated with the building’s aesthetic while remaining code-compliant as an independent unit.
2. Solving for Drainage
Directing water away from the patio was crucial. We installed downspouts that connected to drains hidden under the pedestal tiles, ensuring that the patio would remain dry and functional regardless of the weather. This involved carefully coordinating drainage routes to maintain both practicality and aesthetics.
3. Weight Restrictions and Structural Integrity
The patio sits directly above a parkade, meaning we had strict weight restrictions to follow. Balancing the need for a sturdy, durable patio structure with these limitations required meticulous planning. Our engineering team worked closely with the design and construction teams to ensure that the structure could support all necessary components without exceeding the weight limit.
4. Seismic Challenges in Vancouver’s High-Risk Zone
As Vancouver is located in a high seismic zone (Zone 6), we had to ensure that the patio structure maintained a specific distance from the base building to meet seismic codes. Balancing the aesthetic integration with strict seismic requirements added another layer of complexity, but through careful structural planning, we met these challenges head-on while ensuring safety.
5. Beating the Winter Timeline
Time was another significant hurdle. The restaurant had an aggressive opening date, and we were working through the winter months. With the steel structure in place, we quickly realized that the paint wouldn’t dry in the cold conditions. To overcome this, we hoarded the entire structure and used heating systems to create a controlled environment, allowing the paint to dry properly and keeping us on schedule.
6. Unforeseen Setbacks – The Glass Panel Incident
Even after construction was complete, we faced one more unexpected challenge. An electrician working above the structure accidentally dropped a tool, shattering a custom glass panel in the canopy. This was no ordinary piece of glass—it was a custom design that needed to be replaced quickly. Our team sprang into action, placing a rush order for a replacement and installing it before the grand opening, ensuring the restaurant could proceed as planned without delays.
Each of these challenges was a lesson in adaptability, problem-solving, and collaboration. At Slide Clear, we believe that every obstacle is an opportunity to innovate, and this project was no exception. While the final product at Wildlight Kitchen + Bar is an undeniable success, it’s the behind-the-scenes efforts that truly define this project as a testament to our team’s expertise and determination.
