The Thuq’min Education Building stands as a unique blend of traditional Coast Salish heritage and modern functionality. Local One Construction played a pivotal role in transforming this structure into a purpose-built space for education, community, and cultural connection.
The Thuq’min Education Building was designed to blend heritage, sustainability, and functionality, creating a space that fosters learning, cultural connection, and community engagement.
Locally Sourced Craftsmanship – Custom cedar trim, siding, and decking were crafted from materials supplied by a nearby Stz’uminus-owned mill, ensuring the project remained deeply connected to the local landscape and economy.
Sustainable Repurposing – An on-site tree was transformed into handcrafted shelving, now showcasing rotating student work and reinforcing the project’s emphasis on sustainability and cultural preservation.
Flexible Interior Design – Built to accommodate multiple uses, the space features amphitheater-style seating with Coast Salish-inspired carvings, multi-purpose meeting areas, a presentation space, a full kitchen, and ample storage.
Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Integration – Raised garden beds, lush greenery, and a natural color palette of blues, greens, and golds reflect the surrounding environment, creating a harmonious connection between the building and its natural setting.
Cultural and Educational Impact – Designed to support a land-based outdoor education curriculum in partnership with the Take a Hike Foundation, the space fosters creativity, healing, and a deep connection to heritage for students in Grades 10–12.
A Gathering Place for Community – Beyond education, the building serves as a central hub for elders, community members, and staff to share stories, traditions, and knowledge, ensuring its role as a lasting resource for future generations.
Through thoughtful planning and expert craftsmanship, Local One Construction has created a space that honors the Coast Salish way of life, seamlessly integrating cultural significance with modern functionality.
Every detail of the Nutsumaat Education Centre was designed with purpose—honouring tradition, fostering creativity, and ensuring long-term functionality.
Collaborative Planning – Developed with input from staff, students, and community members to meet current needs while allowing for future transformation into an art gallery and event space.
Structural Enhancements – Thoughtfully constructed co-working desks, private offices, and modular shelving, complemented by locally sourced tongue-and-groove ceilings for durability and warmth.
Adaptable and Functional Design – Integrated modular furniture for flexible layouts that can evolve with changing needs.
Sustainable and Locally Sourced Materials – Incorporated natural wood and stone countertops from Vancouver Island, repurposed materials to reduce waste, and sourced furnishings from local businesses to support the regional economy.
Cultural and Artistic Integration – Designed with formline and relief carving techniques inspired by Coast Salish art and featuring works from Indigenous artists, including Eric Johnny, Spirit Works, Klatle Bhi, and Dion Daniels, to create a space that reflects community identity.
The Nutsumaat Education Centre is a testament to the craftsmanship and cultural awareness of Local One Construction, blending tradition and innovation to create a lasting resource for the Stz’uminus Nation.
Local One Construction proudly completed the Nutsumaat Education Centre, a 2,600 sq. ft. facility designed to reflect the unity and cultural heritage of the Coast Salish people. Serving 1,300 members of the Stz’uminus Nation, this versatile space functions as a hub for education, creativity, and community connection.
At Local One Construction, we take pride in projects that honor tradition while embracing modern functionality. Our work on the Big House Renovation and Culture Hall Construction reflects our commitment to craftsmanship, cultural sensitivity, and community collaboration.
Local One Construction completed a full-scale renovation of the 2,480 sq ft Learning Commons, transforming the outdated library into a dynamic, multi-functional space that supports students, staff, and the broader community. Designed with input from the Stz’uminus community, the project combines modern functionality with cultural reverence, creating a space that fosters learning, connection, and creativity.
The mini big house was built from the ground up to provide young students in the community with a space to learn about and connect with indigenous cultures, ceremonies, and traditions.
Designed as a multifunctional space, the Marine Stewardship Building includes built-in bathrooms, dedicated storage areas, and an upper-level space for fisheries processing. In addition to its practical use, this facility serves as an educational hub, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities about fisheries, marine ecosystems, and wildlife conservation.
The Baker Road project was a complete interior and exterior renovation, modernizing the home while improving its functionality and durability.
Scope of Work:
Exterior Siding Replacement – Upgraded for enhanced weather protection and a refreshed appearance.
Flooring Replacement – Installation of durable, high-quality flooring throughout.
New Kitchen Installation – Full kitchen renovation, including updated cabinetry, countertops, and fixtures.
New Bathroom Installation – Complete redesign with modern fixtures and improved layout.
This renovation brought the home up to modern standards, ensuring both long-term performance and an improved living environment.