studioHuB architects ltd. designed two detached eight-classroom additions for School District 62 (Sooke) under the Ministry of Education and Child Care’s Prefabricated Addition Program. Located at Ruth King Elementary School in Langford and David Cameron Elementary School in Colwood, the projects were completed and occupied in October 2024.

The design incorporates a blend of familiarity and creativity, utilizing a common design approach for both sites while introducing vibrant, site-specific colours that complement the existing school buildings. Each site presented its own unique challenges, including contaminated soils, the need for new fire service connections, existing septic field constraints, and utility coordination requirements. The building massing is defined by two playful gable-roof forms connected by a learning commons, project space, and central hub for students.

The additions were delivered using a modular construction system in partnership with EXO Construction Group. Working within the constraints of prefabricated construction, the design team carefully coordinated layout, window placement, and massing to maximize daylight, visibility, and spatial quality without compromising efficiency or project timelines.

Despite being funded through a modular expansion program, the additions were designed as permanent, student-centred learning environments rather than portable-style facilities. Distinctive forms, durable materials, and flexible learning spaces support contemporary educational practices and align with School District 62 standards.

Within strict Ministry area allocations, classroom footprints were optimized to create wider central corridors that function as collaboration and breakout spaces. The buildings also include gender-neutral washrooms, special education spaces, teacher preparation areas, and classroom sinks throughout.

Completed in approximately 14 months from design initiation to occupancy, the projects demonstrate how modular construction can efficiently deliver high-quality, inclusive learning environments while responding to rapidly growing enrolment demands.