This project at the University of Victoria campus delivered a new academic facility integrated with the existing Fraser Building to support Indigenous legal education and community engagement. The program included classrooms, gathering spaces, administrative areas, and flexible offices for Elders and visiting community members.
AME provided mechanical engineering design for both the new addition and the renovated spaces. The systems incorporated a radiant slab and buried ductwork to support the architectural intent and reduce visual impact. Smudging-compatible ventilation was implemented in gathering and cultural spaces, allowing traditional practices to occur without affecting building operations.
A new air-source heat pump plant served both the addition and the existing Fraser Building. A dedicated sub-plant managed differing thermal requirements between the new low-temperature system and the original infrastructure, creating a flexible foundation for future mechanical upgrades. The project targeted LEED Gold certification and received a 2023 Canadian Architect Award of Excellence.
