Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/1506758
94 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 3 R EN D ER I N GS CO U RT E S Y T H E WO R KU N GA R R I C K PA RT N ER S H I P A RC H I T EC T U R E A N D I N T ER I O R D E S I G N Theresa C. Wildcat Early Learning Centre These materials were chosen for their durability, strength, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal," explains Athari. Inside, inspired by the vision of MESC and the aspirations of the Maskwacîs community, the architects designed hexagon-shaped classrooms – spaces that encourage creativity, col- laboration, and exploration. "During the design process one of the members of the design committee mentioned it would be nice for the students to learn in round spaces. Kindergarten is about learning through activi- ties and not by sitting in rows facing a front board of a classroom. Because of this, it allowed me the opportu- nity to experiment with different shaped classrooms. By designing each classroom in a hexagon shape, it allowed more corners, six instead of four, to create nodes of activity," explains Carroll. Incorporating Cree symbolism and aesthetics was indeed paramount to the design process. Throughout the building, the exterior and interior are adorned with floral beadwork and star patterns – a tribute to the community's identity and traditions. Drum clusters, bright colours, and vaulted triangular entrances welcome visitors, imme- diately enveloping them in the rich cultural tapestry of Maskwacîs. At the heart of the building lies the magnificent Community Gathering Space. A dodecagon-shaped area that is adorned with a 12-metre-high tipi skylight – a powerful symbol of unity, storytelling, and the spirit of together- ness. Here, students and community members alike can gather, share, and learn from one another. Athari explains that the tipi- inspired canopy is constructed with aluminum insulated panels and aluminum-framed glazed window units, which act like a clerestory, allowing natural light and views to enter the building. The school's thoughtful layout extends its cultural embrace to each classroom community. With wayfinding symbols, colours, and animals guiding young learners, navigating their educational journey becomes a meaningful experience. The rainbow-coloured flooring creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, leading students to their uniquely decorated classrooms that inspire wonder and curiosity. Beyond the walls of the kindergarten building, the architects have crafted outdoor spaces – fire pits, outdoor classrooms, and a land-based learn- ing component. These extensions of the learning environment encourage a profound connection to nature, the community, and the deep-rooted Cree values that shape the foundation of MESC's mission. As the Theresa C. Wildcat Early Learning Centre nears comple- tion, the legacy of MESC's vision is set to touch the lives of K4, K5, and eventually Grade 1 level stu- dents, laying a strong foundation for their future. "This is an excit- ing project for the community. For me personally, the old kindergarten is the last remnants of the residen- tial school in Maskwacîs and having a new building that is owned and operated by the community, for the community, closes that era." A #500, 10410-102 Ave. | Edmonton, AB | 780-426-5855 protostatix.com The Protostatix team is proud to have provided full structural engineering services for the Theresa C. Wildcat Learning Centre 1450 Wall Street Winnipeg, MB R3E 2S3 204-788-0648 S I LE XFI B ERG L A SS .CO M ENERGY EFFICIENT & ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY FIBERGLASS WINDOWS