Welcome to the Office of Indigenous Affairs

First Peoples House

photo by Erin Seto

The First Peoples House

In adopting "A Vision for the Future: Building on Strength, " its 2007 strategic plan, the University of Victoria pledged to build "on our commitment to and our unique relationship with Canada's First Peoples." One of the ways the university stated it would achieve this objective was through the construction of a First Peoples House.

First Peoples House will create a welcoming and supportive space on campus for Indigenous students and the broader community. The House will support the academic, emotional, spiritual and physical needs of Indigenous students, while recognizing and honouring the diversity of values and beliefs among Indigenous people.

House Description

Alfred Waugh, Chipweyan (Fond du Lac Band), of Alfred Waugh Architect of Vancouver, was selected as the prime consultant for the project. Raised in Yellowknife, NWT, Waugh employs three Aboriginal architects in his firm. His mother, of Chipweyandescent, encouraged him to make a positive contribution to native people. Projectsundertaken by his firm reflect his cultural sensitivity. The design for the 12,160-squarefoot structure is based on research on pre-contact longhouses in Coast Salish territory.

The design of the building is Coast Salish, reflecting the modern and traditional values of the Coast and Straits Salish peoples. The design also incorporates influences from the Interior Salish. Other cultures will be represented through their art forms. The architectdrew inspiration from various traditional structures, and considered the environment, sunlight and ventilation.

The House has two entrances sheltered by a timber canopy. The main entrance faces east and is framed by two welcoming poles. Two additional poles frame the doorway to the ceremonial hall. The exterior of the House is clad in wide cedar planks,  similar to those in pre-European Coast Salish longhouses.

The corridor is a gallery of native art and artifacts. Coast Salish artists are represented in the corridor and in the future, art and artifacts of neighbouring cultures will be displayed.

web.uvic.ca/fphouse