Preserving the Past, Defining the Future

Since 1914, Victoria High School has been the heart of the Fernwood neighbourhood in Victoria. To accommodate an additional 200 students and improve the facilities to serve the school district better, HDR was engaged to make seismic upgrades to the existing 5-storey masonry structure as well as design an expansion to support and advance modern learning principles while retaining the character of this landmark building.

Upgrading for 21st Century Learning

Identified as a registered institutional heritage building by the City of Victoria, significant upgrades were required to meet modern building codes, accommodate a growing student population and serve the surrounding community. With the need for various seismic and life-safety upgrades, the team was presented with the opportunity to restore the heritage building to its former glory while enhancing learning environments. 

Key features of the renovation and addition include:

• Preservation of the original school building’s iconic brick and terra cotta exterior
• Restoration of interior features, including decorative plaster, marble, and art glass 
• New learning commons (library), multipurpose rooms, teacher and student support spaces and dedicated spaces for not-for-profit community groups
• A new circulation concourse that improves accessibility and connection across the campus
• Intentional inclusion of Indigenous art and wood finishes

Modern Learning Environments Expanded and Heritage Restored

Following an extensive community engagement process with educators, school district staff and community representatives, HDR’s design team provided consultation that helped determine Victoria High’s educational program needs while successfully restoring the school’s architectural heritage. With these enhancements, Victoria High can prioritise expanding its learning opportunities for a growing modern student population, continuing to serve its students and the greater Victoria community.