Lax Kw’alaams Elder + Family Housing
Inspired by the rich culture and traditions of the Lax Kw'alaams Band, the design seeks to create a welcoming presence with a strong sense of place.
Prince Rupert, BC
Client BC Housing, Lax Kw'alaams Band
Scope SD, DD, CD
Status Complete
In collaboration with Michael Green Architecture
Pete Atkinson, Jamie Banks, Adryn Galambos, Carla Gruber, Bruce Haden, Ramona Montecillo, Aiden Mezidor, Heidi Nesbitt, Luis Puente
Upon approach to the building, residents and visitors are drawn in by the warmth of the naturally finished cedar siding that lines the walls and soffit of the shared public corridors. Conceptually, these areas are akin to the core of the cedar tree when cut.
Equity is the strongest value represented in the design, guiding the organization of the units for equitable views and light.
The site organization conveys a gradient of public to private space, which helps create a sense of ownership and security amongst the residents. The program is akin to the rings of a tree, with its loose, exposed outer layers and compact, private inner ones.
