A Purpose-Built Rental Development for Songhees Community Members—by Songhees Nation, for Songhees Nation.
qʷɫaʔəléutxʷ (Camas House)
qʷɫaʔəléutxʷ (Camas House) at 1502 Admirals Road is now complete, delivering 66 affordable, purpose-built rental homes for Songhees Nation members.
Marking the first member housing built on reserve land since 2005, this development represents a significant milestone. The project was made possible through a partnership between Songhees Nation and Aryze, with vital support from CMHC, BC Housing, and the CRD, all working together to address the regional housing challenge.
Project Stats
Number of Homes
66 Apartments
Floor Area
51,212 SF
Build Form
Wood Frame
Build Time
20 Months
Energy Efficiency
Step Code 3
Community Contribution
$525,000
Partnership
It was a privilege to have supported the development of these new homes—a project built by Songhees Nation, for Songhees Nation.
This collaboration successfully united expertise and resources to deliver sustainable housing solutions where they were needed most. As a completed rapid housing initiative, this project served as the foundational step in a broader vision for member housing. Grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside the Community, we look forward to the long-lasting relationships and reciprocity fostered through this partnership.
Artist’s Statement
Tulsimiyē (Eva George) is a Songhees Nation artist who has been honing her craft since the age of twelve. She believes that First Nation art is a vital vessel for preserving culture and identity, allowing sacred stories and traditions to be passed down through the generations.
We are honored to have worked alongside Tulsimiyē on this project. Her vision now scales the height of this building in a breathtaking, totem-inspired installation that serves as a landmark of cultural storytelling. In the section below, Tulsimiyē invites us to explore the ancestral meanings and history behind the symbols featured in this monumental piece.
The Wolf
“The strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack." This powerful statement underscores the importance of unity and teamwork. Just as a wolf thrives within its pack, individuals find strength and support within a community. Together, we are stronger, and our collective power enables us to face the challenges ahead.
The Eagle
The eagle is not only a majestic creature but also a symbol of love, friendship, honour, bravery and mysticism—qualities that we admire and aspire to embody. Its soaring flight represents our highest ideals and our desire to rise above obstacles with grace and courage.
The Mountains
The mountains stand as a metaphor for life’s challenges, reminding us that the most difficult climbs often lead to the greatest achievements. It’s through perseverance and determination that we reach new heights, gaining wisdom with each step.
The Moon
The moon marks the first milestone on our journey toward the stars. It represents the beginning of our dreams, small yet significant, guiding us on our way to greater heights. Like the moon, we start small, but with time, our aspirations grow and expand toward the infinite.
The Sunset
As the sunset ushers in the close of today, it signals the promise of tomorrow’s hopes. The colours of the sky, shaped by the clouds, reflect the richness of life’s experiences, showing us that even in moments of transition, beauty and possibility abound.
The Bear
Like the bear who moves through the forest with strength and wisdom, we too must face the unknown with courage. In the darkest woods, the bear teaches us to trust our instincts, to be resilient in the face of challenges, and to find peace in solitude. The forest may be vast and uncertain, but the bear reminds us that when we walk with purpose, we are never truly lost.
In each of these symbols—the wolf, eagle, mountains, moon, sunset and bear—we find reminders of strength, unity, resilience and personal growth. Together, they inspire us to embrace life’s challenges with courage, determination and a deep respect for the journey ahead.
Project Updates
For more information, including FAQs, project updates and more, please visit songheesnation.ca.
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