Pembina Hall School of Native Studies

HISTORY

Pembina Hall is one of the oldest buildings on the University of Alberta campus and in the city of Edmonton. Built in 1914 and originally used as a residence, this historic building has housed thousands of people over the years (including a ghost or two!), and is now used by the University as a dedicated classroom and office space. The Hall is also home to the Department of East Asian Studies, the Faculty of Native Studies and the Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies.

VISION

In our reimagining of Pembina Hall, we focused on creating a unique home for the University's Faculty of Native Studies and maintaining the space’s unique historical character, while modernizing its interior to meet contemporary standards for comfort and safety. The second phase included spaces for the Department of East Asian Studies and the Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies.

REIMAGINING HISTORY

Pembina hall was vacant and in need of a new life.  The first phase of the renewal addressed the most urgent life safety concerns, including the removal of hazardous materials, the addition of a much-needed elevator, and significant mechanical and code upgrades to bring the building to current standards. This first phase also created the first openly-Indigenous space on campus. The second phase involved interior work, a complete window replacement and the restoration of existing exterior masonry walls and entryways. The design of the interior renovations allow each unit to express its own distinct style and character, while recognizing the historic character and increasing the energy performance of Pembina Hall for years to come!