University of Victoria National Centre for Indigenous Laws

The National Centre for Indigenous Laws will be an expansion of UVIC’s Fraser Building to provide academic and support space for the Canadian Common Law and Indigenous Legal Orders program (JD/JID) and the Indigenous Legal Research Unit (ILRU). Built to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Indigenous people, this centre will be a symbol of progress and unity, while improving the student experience with a comfortable, accessible and modern environment.

On the ground floor, the centre will have ceremonial spaces, classrooms and gathering areas, while the first floor houses sky classrooms and office spaces for the faculty and staff members. The building features an open atrium for improved circulation and an outdoor design with an Elders’ garden, a forest extension, and a learning deck, enhancing its connection to nature. To promote sustainability and the architectural vision of the building, F+E proposed a primary gravity system consisting of a mix of point supported and beam supported CLT panels.

Wood logs harvested from the site itself will be used as columns and beams in a variety of locations throughout the building. Notably, the columns in the main atrium space will be double height logs to create the feel of a forest. The logs will be peeled Douglas Fir, and will have minimal finish to add a rustic feel to the building.

With clean lines and an emphasis on natural light and materials, the building has a contemporary and minimalistic feel. Its timber structure combined with elements made from stone and glass perfectly blends the traditional with the modern while creating a warm and inviting environment.