The newly constructed Gorge Park Pavilion stands as a symbol of reconciliation and cultural celebration. The park was home to Canada’s first Japanese Tea Gardens, which opened in 1907 and featured a floating sampan tearoom; tragically, the gardens and teahouse were destroyed in 1941 amidst a wave of anti-Japanese sentiment. Today’s Pavilion pays homage to this legacy.
Overlooking the Gorge waterway and nestled beside the new Japanese Gardens, the Pavilion spans 6,800 sq.ft. across two levels. The first floor includes three multi-purpose rooms, administrative offices, a boardroom, and a preparatory kitchen. The second floor features a sweeping multi-purpose room framed by floor-to-ceiling windows. Patios and balconies expand the usable space for both floors, creating an ideal space for both intimate and large gatherings.
The architectural design honours traditional Japanese aesthetics. We designed unobtrusive mechanical systems, such as discreet nozzle diffusers, to preserve the wood ceiling’s beauty on the upper floor. Noise and visual distractions were minimized by placing condensing units for cooling away from the building. Advanced ventilation systems, including HRV and VRF technologies, create superior air quality and climate control.
Through its thoughtful design and reconciliation efforts, the Pavilion honours the history of Esquimalt Gorge Park and serves as a vibrant space for future generations.