Team Cannabis Broadway

Date Published: May 7, 2026

We partnered with Michelle Rochon and Team Cannabis to manage the Tenant Improvement design for their new retail storefront. The project involved a formal Change of Use, converting a 600 SF space from its previous use as a barber shop (Major Occupancy D) into a fully compliant cannabis retail store (Major Occupancy E).

As the lead Designer on the project, we focused on delivering high-quality permit drawings that met strict provincial regulations and municipal zoning bylaws.

1. Feasibility & As-Built Measuring

We documented and measured the property and existing building conditions to produce reliable base drawings for the design.

• As-Built Documentation: Site and building measurements were collected to document the existing state.
• Structural Review: We identified and highlighted necessary structural removals, such as an unauthorized interconnection door between units.
• Base Documentation: These measurements established the baseline for all subsequent development and permit drawings.

2. Development Permit Submission

Navigating the City of Vancouver's Change of Use requirements required a strategic approach to the Development Permit (DP) process.

• Change of Use: We managed the transition of the space into a fully compliant Major Occupancy E commercial environment.
• Zoning Compliance: All plans were developed to align with Fairview's specific zoning bylaws and retail regulations.
• Application Support: We provided the necessary documentation and coordination to ensure a smooth DP application.

3. Architectural Collaboration

A Change of Use often triggers complex life-safety and building code requirements that require specialized professional involvement.

• Consultant Coordination: Because of the occupancy change, the municipality required a registered Architect. We collaborated closely with both an Architect and a Structural Engineer.
• Unified Package: Our role included coordinating our floor plans, security layouts, and design elements with consultant documents to produce a unified, permit-ready submission package.
• Code Alignment: We ensured that all design elements met the strict safety standards required for cannabis retail operations.

4. Building Permit Drawings

To satisfy the City of Vancouver's rigorous Building Permit requirements, we provided a comprehensive set of drawings detailing every aspect of the transition.

• Proposed Floor Plans: Detailed spatial planning, means of egress, and universal accessibility compliance for the updated washroom layout.

• Reflected Ceiling Plans: Outlined the updated lighting plan and HVAC layouts.

• Security Layouts: Precisely mapped the placement of cameras, sensors, and card readers—a critical requirement for cannabis retail compliance.

• Construction Details: Detailed sections for energy efficiency and one-hour fire separations required between suites.

  Project Snapshot

  Key technical details for the Team Cannabis Shop Tenant Improvement.

  Detail	Value
  Location	Fairview, Vancouver, BC
  Category	Commercial TI / Change of Use
  Project Size	600 SF
  Required Permits	Development Permit, Building Permit, Plumbing Permit