Siem Lelum
SUPPORTIVE HOUSING
Victoria, BC
The Siem Lelum project created a new critical housing and community support asset for the Victoria Native Friendship Centre, in association with BC Housing, CMHC and the City of Victoria. The project was initiated through Linda E. Ross has a master plan for the site, including housing and community gathering space with a focus on meal sharing and preparation. Phase one, included a seismic upgrade and adaptive reuse of the former Traveller's Inn building located at 120 Gorge Road East, Victoria. At the end of its useful life, the existing structure was transformed into safe and adaptable apartment accommodations for urban Indigenous youth and families and was designed to create a sustainable, holistic village environment that encouraged engagement and mutual support. A Phase two family housing structure and communal space was completed by Merrick Architecture and evolved consistent with the original vision and aspiration for the site.