Alfred Waugh, Chipweyan (Fond du lac Band), of Alfred Waugh Architect of Vancouver, was selected as the prime consultant for the project. Raised in Yellowknife, NWT, Mr. Waugh employs three Aboriginal architects in his firm. His mother, of Chipweyan descent, encouraged him to make a positive contribution to native people. Projects undertaken by his firm reflect his cultural sensitivity. The design for the 12,160 square foot structure is based on research on pre-contact longhouses in Coast Salish territory reflecting the modern and traditional values of the Coast and Straits Salish peoples. The design also incorporates influences from the Interior Salish. Other cultures will be respresented through their art forms. The architect drew inspiration from various traditional structures, and considered the environment, sunlight, and ventilation. The House has two entrances sheltered by a timber canopy. The main entrance faces east and is framed by two welcoming figures symbolizing the doorway to the modern First Peoples House, representing the Coast Salish students of the 21st century. Beyond the entrance are two more welcoming posts framing the doorway to the ceremonial hall, representing the traditional values of the Coast Salish people. The corridor will be a gallery of native art and artifacts. Coast Salish people will be represented at the east entrance of the building and, as the path progresses, art and artifacts of neighboring native cultures will be displayed. The exterior of the building consists of cedar and glass planks, representing the old and the new (summary imported from CAGBC database. remove this message if edited) READ MORE