Back in the fall, it was announced that Four Directions would expand from its home in 146 Barrie to include the neighbouring house.

Now, with the insides of both 144 and 146 Barrie Street torn down to the plaster, work will soon begin on putting the expanded and renovated Four Directions back together in time for the fall.

Once work is complete, the two houses will feature a cultural and ceremonial room, a library, a larger kitchen, multiple meeting rooms, and programming space, along with added office space for staff.

This expansion of Four Directions aligns with the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation task force, which called on Queen’s to develop centralized space for Indigenous activities and the celebration of Indigenous traditions, and to enhance the visibility of Indigenous communities at Queen’s and promote inclusive learning and community spaces on campus. 

Recommendation 13 specifically called on Queen's to "Expand Four Directions Aboriginal Student Centre and ensure that it is appropriately staffed and resourced to adequately support expanding enrolment of Aboriginal students".

While workers were prepared for anything when they began work up the 19th-century homes, you never quite know what you will find when you open up the walls of older buildings.

Contractors working on 144 and 146 Barrie got an interesting lead on a furniture supplier, albeit over a century too late. An ad from 1893 was found during demolition work.

While construction is underway, Four Directions staff will still be available. They are currently located in Victoria Hall. To learn more, visit queensu.ca/fdasc.