The University of Victoria has opened its newest student housing complex, named Sŋéqə ʔéʔləŋ (Sngequ House), meaning “snow patches” in lək̓ʷəŋən. The residence has 385-single-room dormitory style beds and an Indigenous student lounge, was constructed with natural stone and wood products, and designed in line with global building standards for sustainability and energy efficiency. The building opened a year ahead of schedule; it is part of a larger housing project which includes a second residence building that opened in September 2022. UVic stated that together, these two residences have increased on-campus housing by 25%. The university received $127M from the Government of British Columbia toward the construction of the two residences.
