Forrest Building, Halifax

The Forrest Building stands as a historic cornerstone of Dalhousie University, originally serving as the university's sole building from 1887 to 1914. Financed through a donation by Sir William Young and designed by architect J.G. Dumaresq, this three-story red brick structure was considered architecturally distinctive among Canadian universities at the time of its construction.

When it first opened as Dalhousie College in September 1887, the building provided a central yet tranquil setting, offering ample space for academic activities and future expansion. Its 145-foot central tower, nearly as tall as the Citadel, added to its commanding presence. The interior, bright and spacious, included a 1,400-square-foot arts library and a museum, both adaptable as classrooms.

Originally referred to simply as the new Dalhousie College building, it was renamed the Forrest Building in 1919 in honor of Rev. John Forrest, the university’s third president. Over time, as Dalhousie expanded, the building became a key part of the Carleton Campus, now home to the faculties of dentistry, medicine, and health professions. It is situated near the IWK Health Centre and the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre.

Throughout its history, the Forrest Building has undergone numerous renovations, including a major exterior restoration project beginning in 2002, which addressed its brickwork, windows, soffits, gutters, dormers, and shingle roof. Today, it houses Dalhousie’s Schools of Nursing, Physiotherapy, and Occupational Therapy, continuing its legacy as a vital institution in health sciences education.