The space where people can engage with and learn about their indigenous heritage

A new heart for Algoma University in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, the design of the Mukwa Waakaa’igan Indigenous Centre of Cultural Excellence intends to provide a safe space, welcoming visitors from across the globe to engage with and learn from Indigenous heritage. The architectural design has been articulated through consideration of Indigenous teachings, from building form to material selection.

Aerial View of Exterior: Winter
Photo credit: Moriyama & Teshima Architects

At the gateway to campus is Shingwauk Hall, a former residential school that operated between 1875 and 1970. Since the school's official closure, the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA) have been working with Algoma University to teach the truth about the residential school system's history in Canada and work toward healing. The new Cultural Centre's architectural expression comes from the land, rising up through three paths that represent the past, present, and future, and standing above the residential school. This lifted position provides visitors a stronger, more dominant, and dignified vantage point from which to look upon the site's history.

View North Toward Wet Meadows
Photo credit: Moriyama & Teshima Architects

Interior View: Atrium Space
Photo credit: Moriyama & Teshima Architects

View Ascending the Landscaped Roof via Intertwining Paths
Photo credit: Moriyama & Teshima Architects

About Moriyama & Teshima Architects

Moriyama & Teshima Architects (MTA) is a team of architects, planners and designers collaborating with visionary clients to build inspiring and enduring spaces that transform communities and reinforce civic identity. The office offers services in architecture, master planning and urban design, interior design and program development. Our extensive portfolio of Canadian and international projects comprises museums and art galleries, university buildings, schools, faith based spaces, corporate and government headquarters, recreational facilities, libraries, restoration and renovation projects, and urban / campus planning. MTA believes that the success of design is rooted in collaborative processes that approach challenges and solutions holistically, and that work at all times to integrate site, building, context and a plurality of perspectives into a built reality of which we can all be proud.

Smoke Architecture

Smoke Architecture Inc. (SAI) is Indigenous owned and operated, providing complete architectural services since 2014, with a focus on First Nation and Indigenous projects. Led by Principal Architect, Eladia Smoke, their design is guided by Elders and community leaders, who hold millennia of expertise on how and what to build in our traditional territories. The path they take rediscovers Indigenous knowledge in contemporary contexts. This process of land-based learning applies to each project they undertake, using engagement tools, design techniques, and building systems crafted specifically for each community and each place. The firm places significant emphasis on community engagement early in their design process, using a proven collaborative design approach, and involving participants identified by Project Stakeholders. SAI’s listening strategies enhance the success and relevance of the design response, critical to reflect our rich Anishinabek Nation.