Building the Foundation: Planning and Designing a High-Performance Cannabis Facility

The success of a cannabis facility is largely determined before construction ever starts. The decisions made during planning and design directly influence capital costs, operational efficiency, energy consumption, scalability, compliance, and long-term facility performance. This session brings together architects, engineers, and industry professionals to explore the critical factors owners and operators should evaluate before committing to a facility concept, site, or equipment investment. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, attendees will gain a practical understanding of facility planning, infrastructure requirements, utility considerations, space programming, workflow development, and building selection. The discussion will highlight how engaging the right design team early can help identify risks, align facility objectives with operational goals, and establish a proactive plan for project success. Participants will gain a framework for making informed decisions during the planning and design phase and a better understanding of how these early choices affect project execution, construction, and long-term operations. As half of a two-part conference series, this session focuses on establishing the foundation for a successful cannabis cultivation or processing facility. Its companion session, From Plans to Production: Effective Cannabis Project Execution , will build on these concepts by exploring the project management, construction, and execution strategies required to deliver the facility on time and within budget. Cultivation Business Solutions Track Sponsor: PDS Cultivation Intelligence