Irving Shipbuilding Boat School
Project Name:
Irving Shipbuilding Boat School
Location:
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Sector:
Institutional – Education, Community, Cultural
Year Complete:
2026
Sq.ft:
2,583 sq. ft
Project Team:
Architect: RHAD Architects - Rayleen Hill, Principal
Construction Manager: Build Nova Scotia, with support from the Nova Scotia Department of Public Works
Client/Owner: Maritime Museum of the Atlantic / Nova Scotia Museum
Products:
Bellara Plank 135
Colour:
Natural Maple
The Nova Scotia Boat School was created to address growing demand for learning boatbuilding, sailing, and other on-the-water programming for youth, particularly youth from underserved communities; however, an outdated and underutilized facility was limiting the school’s ability to deliver hands-on learning. Previously, the programs had operated out of small sheds for approximately a decade, limiting program capacity and growth.
The Boat School located on the Halifax Waterfront needed to withstand Halifax’s challenging waterfront environment including extreme weather and Atlantic sea-level rising. Beyond the elements, there was a need for a building that honoured Nova Scotia’s maritime heritage while serving as a modern community learning space.
Bellara Plank 135 in Natural Maple brings a warm woodgrain and natural material aesthetic to the contemporary waterfront facility, complementing the Boat School’s focus on traditional boatbuilding and maritime heritage. The exterior’s finish helps create an inviting environment for hands-on learning while reinforcing the project’s connection to the natural environment and waterfront.
The new Boat School provides a purpose-built space for waterfront learning where individuals can develop practical boatbuilding and sailing skills while building confidence and resilience. Its open-concept design, accessibility features and climate-resilient construction support the Boat School’s goal of creating a welcoming environment, while respecting the location.
The new Boat School provides a purpose-built space for waterfront learning where individuals can develop practical boatbuilding and sailing skills while building confidence and resilience. It has become a place where the community can gather, learn, and explore Nova Scotia’s maritime heritage with a focus on underserved youth. The Boat School welcomes participants of all ages, backgrounds and abilities and partners with community organizations to expand access to maritime heritage and skills programming.
