Our Work in Action
Check out some of our previous projects.
CASE STUDIES
Cultivating Legacy: 3 Flamingos' Transformation with DRM
We successfully transformed 3 Flamingos’ vision into a state-of-the-art indoor cultivation facility. By blending their entrepreneurial spirit with DRM’s expertise, we turned a blank slate into a high-performing operation. Tackling complex challenges with forward-thinking solutions, we established a model facility that reflects 3 Flamingos’ resilience, precision, and commitment to excellence in the cannabis industry.
The Mission Directive
Shadows to Success
3 Flamingos, owned by Michael Valencia, Columbio Rayes, and Brandon White, overcame numerous challenges to enter the now-legalized cannabis industry. After years of tirelessly working for others and shouldering the risks of the black market, they crafted a strategic plan to transition into a self-funded, legal cannabis business. For these lifelong friends, it marked the beginning of a well-established and recognized cannabis brand. However, this new venture brought its own set of complexities.
Blank Slate to Renowned Brand
While stepping into the competitive cannabis market might seem daunting to most, for this close-knit group of friends, it was just another milestone on their path to success. Starting with a blank slate, they transformed their new facility into what is now a well-known and respected cannabis brand. The combined imagination of DRM and these resilient dreamers set the stage for an idea that, once unimaginable, began its journey towards fruition. With ample power at their disposal, the construction of their first commercial cannabis facility commenced. The 3 Flamingos team relied on DRM’s multifaceted expertise, not only for cannabis facility design but also to navigate the real-world challenges of commercial cannabis cultivation construction.
DRM Delivers
Phase 1: Design That Works
DRM established a solid connection with each of the owners to ensure every voice was heard and understood. Once the vision was established, the process of space planning and refinement began. Having completed hundreds of cultivation facilities, DRM propelled the project forward with a simplistic and forward-thinking layout. The process of refinement was likened to the formation of a samurai sword—folded repeatedly to become stronger with every iteration. This extra time allowed all parties to become deeply connected to the shared goal of achieving a design that was simple yet precise.
Phase 2: Forward Thinking
Working with a blank space free of building structure interruptions allowed imagination to run wild. With some owners’ backgrounds in construction and aviation, their understanding of detailed processes informed each change to the plan. Years later, though the facility continues to undergo refinements and internal adjustments, the team still employs a forward-thinking, organized approach to all aspects of their operations. Despite a lack of prior commercial experience, outsiders would perceive one of the most refined and organized facilities in operation. The team combines current technologies with a simple, clean approach to every aspect of their process.
Phase 3: Conquering Challenges, Achieving Triumph
The journey of the 3 Flamingos team has been marked by countless hurdles in the cannabis industry. Reflecting on the challenges, the owners laugh about enlisting a general contractor for future projects rather than enduring the trials of being owner-builders. Each setback and challenge fueled their resolve to push forward. Today, they are already dreaming of the next chapter in their incredible self-made story. DRM was honored to be part of their journey from the beginning and is humbled to stand by their side as they continue to build their cannabis legacy.
Key Stats & Facts
Facility Overview
Lighting and Room Configurations
- Flower rooms: Six two-tier rooms, each equipped with 220 lights for a total of 1,320 flowering lights
- Strategic propagation area, including an oversized veg area currently being converted to more flowering rooms
Operational Design
- Separate access paths for each team to improve process integrity, efficiency, and teamwork
- Racetrack floor plan to facilitate smooth daily operations
- Streamlined cultivation design to ensure products move efficiently in an orderly and organized manner
Story from the Field
Resilient Cannabis Pioneers
Every great story has a humble beginning, and for this group of friends, it was no different. With over 20 years of experience in the cannabis industry, they began growing cannabis during a time when it was illegal. Police raids and the constant threat of jail time were daily fears they faced. Yet, their unwavering passion for the cannabis plant and its incredible healing power silenced society’s harsh judgments. Their journey is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the profound impact of their mission.
Pursuit of Perfection
Enlisting only the best companies the industry has to offer is a recipe for success. For the 3 Flamingos team, this was non-negotiable. Owning a commercial construction company seemed like a natural progression, but they were unprepared for the unique challenges of building a commercial cannabis facility of this magnitude. Each day brought critical challenges that required immediate solutions. Although the build time extended to nearly a year—longer than most—it was worth it. They aimed for perfection in fit and finish, evident in the craftsmanship throughout the facility.
The Transformative Journey
The original design by DRM was a solid starting point, but the ever-changing nature of the industry demanded constant evolution. Each day brought new challenges, but DRM’s unwavering support and guidance kept the project on track, serving as a beacon of hope for 3 Flamingos. Over the course of a year, the team adapted to industry innovations and overcame obstacles with forward-thinking collaboration. Thanks to DRM’s dedication and expertise, the project progressed smoothly, transforming the facility into a flagship operation.
Innovating Indoors: MangoTech and DRM’s High-Tech Cultivation Revolution
MangoTech, makers of Miami Mango
Alex Villegas (CEO)
We successfully transformed Alex Villegas’ vision for MangoTech into an advanced indoor cultivation facility. By refining innovative ideas into actionable plans and addressing real-world challenges with creative solutions, we set a new industry benchmark, showcasing MangoTech’s pioneering equipment and techniques.
The Mission Directive
Vision to Revolutionize Indoor Cultivation
Alex Villegas of MangoTech vision was to establish the most advanced indoor cultivation setup in the industry.
From Dream to Reality
Bringing this vision to life required millions in investment and meticulous planning. DRM was tasked with organizing the extensive information and transforming it into an operational, licensed facility.
DRM Delivers
Phase 1: Planning and Design
DRM organized Alex’s extensive ideas into a cohesive strategic plan, creating a facility layout that integrated aesthetic vision and practical needs.
Phase 2: Documentation and Approval
They generated detailed construction documents, managed permitting, and navigated regulatory challenges to ensure compliance.
Phase 3: Construction and Execution
DRM tackled real-world issues with innovative solutions, securing the Certificate of Occupancy and achieving operational readiness.
Key Stats & Facts
Facility Overview
Facility Metrics
Total area of 20,000 sq. ft. with approximately 500 strategically placed flowering lights.
Lighting & Layout Enhancements
Designed for optimal energy use and flexibility, including tiered room designs and advanced cultivation practices, provided by ThinkGrow.
Innovative Methods and Elements
Integrated systems for propagation, processing, and distribution with tunable light fixtures and efficient energy management.
Story from the Field
A Crisis Averted
One morning, Alex Villegas faced a critical situation when a 36-inch Glulam beam in the MangoTech facility showed signs of failure. At 6:00 AM, he urgently called DRM from Home Depot for advice on constructing a temporary bracing system. The split beam posed a significant safety risk.
Quick Thinking and Innovative Solutions
With time of the essence, DRM swiftly provided a list of materials to stabilize the beam. They arrived onsite, inspected the issue, and identified the cause—errors from field modifications. DRM installed hidden columns within the walls, restoring structural integrity without disrupting the facility’s design.
Turning Challenges into Success
This incident highlighted DRM’s expertise, quick decision-making, and focus on client safety. Their ability to transform challenges into success stories exemplifies their reliability and resourcefulness.
Cultivation Evolution: King City Gardens' Seamless Transformation
King City Gardens
Steve Anevski (Co-Owner), Justin Matherly (Cultivation Manager), Tony Cook (Project Manager)
Through meticulous evaluation and strategic planning, we effectively addressed King City Gardens’ operational inefficiencies and designed an efficient expansion plan. Our innovative solutions optimized environmental conditions, improved yield, and enhanced facility design, transforming challenges into opportunities for sustained growth and success.
The Mission Directive
Addressing Complex Cultivation Challenges
King City Gardens faced operational challenges despite hiring top architects and local engineers, resulting in over $1,000,000 in unnecessary expenses. Issues in flowering and dry rooms disrupted workflow, causing frustration.
Quest for Solutions
The need for expansion and resolution of existing inefficiencies prompted the involvement of DRM. They aimed to diagnose issues, optimize equipment setup, and improve room conditions for better plant health and profitability.
DRM Delivers
Phase 1: Diagnostic and Problem-Solving
DRM conducted thorough evaluations to identify root causes like improper equipment setup and inadequate air circulation.
Phase 2: Implementing Practical Solutions
They enhanced air circulation by rebuilding the fan system, removing obstructive sheet work, and adjusting rack placements for uniform air distribution.
Phase 3: Expansion Planning
DRM designed a 55,000 sq. ft. remodel plan, prepared construction documents, and coordinated a power upgrade with the local utility company, ensuring both immediate and long-term operational efficiency.
Key Stats & Facts
Facility Overview
Facility Metrics
Current space is 115,000 sq. ft., with 65,000 sq. ft. developed and a 55,000 sq. ft. expansion planned.
Lighting & Layout Enhancements
Six two-tier flower rooms with 252 lights each and one single-tier room with 126 lights. The remodel includes four new two-tier rooms with 252 lights each and one more two-tier room with 208 lights. Racks are streamlined for improved airflow.
Quantifiable Improvements
Yield per room improved by over half a pound per light. Energy efficiency was enhanced with 100 tons of cooling per room, and the expansion led to a $1.5 million annual increase with a minimal $50,000 investment.
Story from the Field
Power Revelation
DRM discovered insufficient power for expansion, leading to critical discussions with the utility provider. They secured an additional 4,000 amps, optimizing existing electrical resources.
Strategic Pivot
Instead of an oversized retail space, the project focused on enhancing cultivation capacities within the current footprint, ensuring efficiency and scalability.
Triumph in Adaptability
DRM’s resourceful problem-solving and strategic adaptation allowed King City Gardens to achieve immediate success and sustainable growth, demonstrating true partnership and innovation.
Blueprints to Breakthroughs: Green Dot Labs’ Seamless Expansion with DRM's Expertise
Green Dot Labs
Alana & Dave Malone (Owners)
Through detailed planning and innovative solutions, DRM successfully transformed Green Dot Labs’ expansion project into a functional and safe facility, setting the stage for long-term success.
The Mission Directive
Navigating Expansion Obstacles
Green Dot Labs, led by Alana and Dave Malone, faced a major challenge when their initial facility investment proved unsuitable due to structural and lease issues. They quickly had to pivot to a new location that presented its own set of complex challenges.
The Imperative for DRM’s Expertise
The new facility had significant structural issues, such as weak glulam beams and problematic concrete walls and columns. Power availability was also a concern. DRM was brought in to:
- Design a functional layout that maximized space while addressing these structural constraints.
- Ensure the facility’s safety by resolving the structural issues.
- Secure necessary utility arrangements to meet operational needs.
DRM Delivers
Evaluation and Design Refinement
DRM analyzed the existing layout and refined the design to enhance efficiency and functionality:
- Design Optimization: Redesigned elongated flowering rooms to avoid harvest overlaps and maximize floor space. Incorporated critical spaces such as on-site propagation areas and improved the operational flow to separate different work crews.
Clear Span Room Planning
DRM tackled the limitations posed by column distribution:
- Maximizing Room Potential: Developed clear span room designs devoid of columns to optimize rack utilization and ensure consistent product replication. Adopted a uniform square shape and size for operational efficiency.
Safety and Operational Integrity
Focused on safeguarding against cross-contamination and enhancing overall operational setup:
- Enhancing Facility Safety: Integrated preventive measures at the facility’s front end to mitigate cross-contamination risks and reinforced structural integrity.
Key Stats & Facts
Facility Overview
Lighting and Room Configurations:
- Facility Metrics: The total building size is 60,000 square feet, with 40,000 square feet dedicated to cultivation and 10,000 square feet for manufacturing. Mid-project, 10,000 square feet were allocated for tissue culture space.
- Lighting & Layout Enhancements: The facility includes 10 single-tier flower rooms equipped with 800 flowering lights in total. Strategic propagation areas and compliance spaces for safety and regulatory adherence were integrated.
- Operational Design: Segregated access paths for different operational teams and a centralized Tissue Culture and Propagation Lab to facilitate efficient material handling. A singular-flow cultivation design ensures orderly product movement.
Story from the Field
A Structural Challenge Uncovered
During an initial site visit, DRM discovered splitting glulam beams, a common issue in older buildings with frequent temperature cycles, threatening the building’s integrity.
Strategic Innovation and Quick Thinking
DRM quickly devised a plan to fortify the compromised beams without extensive repairs, ensuring safety and project continuity. This proactive problem-solving exemplified DRM’s ability to turn potential setbacks into opportunities for reinforcement and progress.
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