A New Standard for Quality Long-Term Care in Nova Scotia:

Westwood Long-Term Care Centre

^{Photo renderings © SP Dumaresq Architect Ltd.}

Pomerleau was awarded the construction management contract by GEM Health Care Group for the Westwood Long-Term Care Centre in Westwood, Nova Scotia. Designed to enrich residents’ daily lives, the facility introduces a modern model of care where comfort, dignity, and community are prioritized.

The centre will offer 144 beds, organized into small households of 24 residents, each split into two clusters of 12. This layout fosters a more intimate, home-like environment, with shared central common areas that encourage interaction and social engagement.

Collaborative Design and Construction Management Enhancing Project Value

In this budget‑driven project, Pomerleau partnered with several design‑assist specialists to revisit the initial needs assessment. This collaborative approach led to a key improvement: increasing the facility capacity from 124 to 144 beds through a BIM‑driven redesign. Digital remodeling helped refine the layout, improve constructability, and deliver greater value without compromising quality.

Addressing Infrastructure Challenges on Remote Construction Sites

Situated in the rural Westwood Steep area, the facility is not connected to a municipal water system. To ensure self‑sufficiency and resilience, the project includes the construction of a dedicated water and wastewater treatment system with a deep, large‑capacity cistern specifically designed for long‑term care needs.

Innovative Building Systems and Advanced Construction Techniques

The project introduces the first use of the Besteel structural steel stud wall system in Atlantic Canada, bringing a light‑gauge steel framing approach that strengthens building performance while improving overall efficiency. This cold‑formed steel system creates durable and lightweight wall structures with slimmer profiles that help maximize interior living space. Its compatibility with high‑performing insulation materials enhances the facility’s thermal efficiency and supports long‑term energy savings. Because the panels are manufactured off‑site, the system reduces construction waste and improves installation precision. 

Pomerleau is partnering with a specialized subcontractor to deploy this advanced solution, reflecting the team’s commitment to adopting innovative construction methods that elevate quality and project delivery.

Technical Precision and Efficient Foundation Construction Requirements

Because the Besteel system requires all foundation walls to be load‑bearing, the installation of hundreds of cast‑in‑place anchor bolts is necessary. This demands exceptional survey accuracy to ensure perfect alignment between each anchor bolt and the steel bottom track, an essential factor in maintaining structural integrity and construction efficiency.

Leveraging Healthcare Construction Expertise to Improve Outcomes

Pomerleau’s extensive experience in healthcare facilities construction in Canada, has shaped the team's approach.

“Our other experiences with GEM, at both Roger Bacon Long-Term Care Centre and Princeton Long-Term Care Centre, have been helpful in this project,” said Project Director Aswin Rajendran. “We have been able to apply lessons learned to refine our approach and tightly manage the budget.” 

Pomerleau’s extensive experience on previous healthcare projects has strengthened the team’s ability to install specialized infection‑control equipment. This proven expertise is directly benefiting the Westwood project by supporting better planning, coordination, and execution in areas critical to resident safety and long‑term operational reliability.

Sustainable Construction Practices and Energy-Efficient Building Materials

The Besteel system supports responsible and efficient building design. Its compatibility with insulation materials, such as mineral wool and polyurethane panels, allows the facility to achieve high thermal performance. The use of 100% recyclable steel and reduced material waste through prefabrication makes this system a valuable contributor to the project's sustainability goals.

Delivering Meaningful Infrastructure for Seniors Across Nova Scotia

Pomerleau is proud to contribute to the delivery of this essential long‑term care facility in Westwood, Nova Scotia. By combining innovation, precision, and a commitment to community well‑being, Pomerleau is honoured to support a project that will positively impact residents and their families for generations to come.