First Peoples House
Certifications & Awards
- LEED Canada for New Construction and Major Renovations 1 Gold
- CaGBC LEED-NC Gold
Project Team
- Sustainability Consultant: Kane Consulting
- Architect: Alfred Waugh Architect/FormLine Architecture
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Summary
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)