Project Sectors
HISTORY
The Salt River First Nation settlement is located around the area of Fort Smith, a town nestled in the Boreal forest at the border of Alberta and The Northwest Territories. The band was given land in the area following a Final Treaty Land Entitlement agreement signed in December 2001. We were invited to create a new Multipurpose Facility to house the Nation’s administration offices and Council meeting room.
VISION
Though the Nation has inhabited the Slave River area for centuries, their ‘official’ settlement in and around the Fort Smith area is relatively recent. The Nation desired a Multipurpose Facility that would express their unique values and cultural legacy and that would serve as a central gathering hub for Nation members and visitors.
SHAPED BY THE LAND AND WATER
The new Facility is a unique, expressive space that highlights the diversity and character of the Salt River First Nation. Viewed from above, the building’s massing resembles the oxbow river form found on the original lands of the Salt River First Nation. This shape also inspires the linoleum pattern, which depicts a river running through the building. The Facility includes a 400-seat community hall and leasable spaces that will contribute to the financial sustainability of the Nation.
