The Old School House Arts Centre, the artistic focal point for the area, is located in the heart of the picturesque community of Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island, British Columbia.
The Old School House is an ornate, two-storey Classical Revival style building located in the town centre of Qualicum Beach. The historic place is confined to the building footprint.
The Old School House's impressive architecture speaks to the community's earliest aspirations and the value it placed on education. The building's ornate and sophisticated appearance is the direct result of insistence by the local school board that the school's architecture symbolize the importance of education. Moreover, the school's relatively large size in a community of less than 100 people conveys a sense of permanence and anticipated growth.
Built in 1914, the Old School House is an excellent example of the Classical Revival style, an especially popular style for institutional buildings at the time, because of its associations with authority and permanence. Designed by Allan Waters for the British Columbia Department of Public Works, the symmetrical composition is enriched with classical detail typical of this style. Although the rear of the building is completely altered, the front and side elevations are intact.
The Old School House is an exceptional example of the adaptive re-use of a historic building. Officially re-opened in 1988 as an arts centre after considerable community-based fundraising and restoration work, the Old School House has become an integral part of the social and cultural life of Qualicum Beach. The centre has been so successful that the image of the Old School House now symbolizes arts and culture in the community.
The Old School House's imposing scale, striking appearance and visibility from many directions make it a community landmark.
The Old School House 122 Fern Rd W Qualicum Beach, BC V9K 1S4 Phone: 250.752.6133 Website: www.theoldschoolhouse.org
