HERITAGE – Restoration work on St. Andrew’s on the Square finished

St. Andrew’s on the Square is ready to welcome the public again following extensive restoration work.

Built in 1887, St. Andrew’s is the oldest public building in Kamloops. After sustaining fire, smoke, and water damage in May 2024, the building underwent a $1.1 million restoration.

“Like a phoenix, St Andrew’s has risen twice,” said Andrew Yarmie, member of the City’s Heritage Engagement Group. “Due to vacancies and neglect, the church nearly succumbed to demolition in the 1990s and then to a fire in 2024.

“First through the efforts of the Kamloops Heritage Society, and next the City of Kamloops, the facility has been restored to a high standard and remains a cornerstone of our heritage and community.”

Upgrades include restored heritage elements, improved accessibility and inclusivity, updated technology for events and live-streaming, enhanced security, and spaces for gatherings.

The City worked with Reimagine Architects to develop a restoration plan.

The restored venue features a bright interior with the original historic pews, stained-glass pieces by local artist Sheila Dunn, archival photographs from the Kamloops Museum and Archives, and heritage-inspired finishes throughout.

“Period lighting, trim, baseboards, moulding, paint, and hardware honour and reflect the building’s heritage characteristics,” said a news release. New additions include a gender-neutral washroom and a quiet family space.

The wedding photographs that once lined the venue’s walls were lost due to water damage, but the facility will now feature a digital photo display showcasing wedding moments from both past and future celebrations. Community members are invited to contribute their photos by emailing standrewsweddingphotos@kamloops.ca.

The Kamloops Museum and Archives will offer free public tours on Saturday, May 23, 2026, with sign-up available at the Farmers’ Market. Tours will depart from the museum booth at the Farmer’s Market at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., and from the museum’s front desk at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

The facility is once again available for event bookings, including family gatherings, cultural events, weddings, ceremonies, meetings, performances and celebrations of life. To book St. Andrew’s on the Square, email facilities@kamloops.ca or call 250-828-3319. Bookings are available starting Monday, June 1, 2026.