The new Cowichan Secondary School is one step closer to reality with the selection of the successful proponent in the design-build process.
Urban One Builders along with architecture firm HCMA will deliver the new building which will be approximately 11,975 square metres and built for 1100 students. It will include purpose-built learning communities with collaboration spaces and incorporate spaces for technology and innovation throughout.
“We are thrilled to welcome Urban One Builders to the Cowichan Valley. Their innovative and carefully crafted design for Cowichan Secondary School will be an architectural centerpiece of our district, and will serve our learners in exceptional ways for decades to come,” said Candace Spilsbury, chair of the board of education for the Cowichan Valley School District.
The new seismically safe Cowichan Secondary School will be a three-storey building with several architectural features that will complement the surroundings and will honour the unceded Quw’utsun lands where it is situated. The grounds will offer beautiful outdoor learning spaces that pay homage to the past, while providing spaces that allow students to focus on creating their future.
The board announced in May 2020 that an Indigenous Language and Culture Centre would be the cornerstone of the Neighbourhood Learning Centre that will also house Health and Wellness facilities, and a high-tech boardroom / meeting room.
Architectural features include:
- Incorporation of Cowichan culture, heritage, and design throughout to tie the school to the rich history of the Hwulmuhw Mustimuh (first peoples) and this unceded land.
- Break out work spaces to foster collaboration and creativity.
- Outdoor gathering spaces so learning can take place in a variety of places.
- Incredible natural lighting and views to inspire and energize students and staff alike.
- Use of wood to create strong, warm, and welcoming spaces for all.
