Revitalizing an old building by adding two stories of academic space
In British Columbia, amidst rolling hills, Thompson Rivers University (TRU) has founded a new Faculty of Law in Canada, the first new one in 30 years. The idea was to revitalize the Old Main Building—they wanted the forty-year-old edifice virtually unrecognizable.
TRU turned to the team to design the renewal and keep the building operational during construction. The design team drew on the lush landscapes of British Columbia to design an exterior that rolls with the hills. And the local skateboarders have been seen eyeing the rolling ribbon of the cedar-accented roof with envy.
Two stories added to the top increased academic space and opened up breathtaking views of Mt. Peter and Mt. Paul. Teaching rooms, a reading room, a law library, and additional common spaces for all TRU students were wood finished and centered on a spiral staircase. This award-winning design celebrates the natural heritage of British Columbia and TRU—and sets up an iconic silhouette for Canada’s newest Faculty of Law.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Partners
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- Diamond Schmitt Architects
- Stantec Architecture Ltd.
- Award
- 2014 Honor Award for Excellence in Architecture Building Additions or Adaptive Reuse from the SCUP
- Award
- American Institute of Architects' Committee on Architecture for Education
Brian Christianson, Principal, Practice Leader British Columbia
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