Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Date: 2018-2019
Area: 9000 sq ft.
Client: Gabriel Dumont Institute
Architect of Record: Edwards Edwards McEwen Architects (EEMA), Saskatoon, SK
Role: Designer at DTFA
The Gabriel Dumont Institute (GDI) in Saskatoon were planning an addition to their existing office building on 22nd Ave in Saskatoon when they learned of David and Jason’s research into Métis architectural history and contemporary design. Following a few presentations about Métis architecture and potential for the new addition, GDI requested that David and Jason work with the team to develop a culturally appropriate approach to the addition and support EEMA as collaborators on the project.
This building combines a contemporary office facility, storefront and art gallery. Many contemporary/traditional tectonic and visual references were included in the project including: detailing elements such as adding Accoya wood siding around both new and existing buildings with a chevron pattern to reference the Métis sash, a celebrated entry canopy expressing the Red River frame, timber stair treads referencing the dovetail notches of the Métis folk home, and various interior details to celebrate the spirit of contemporary Métis architecture. The building has a gallery that is home to the largest collection of Christi Belcourt’s paintings, a store front selling Métis literature and art and the Fisher Gallery.
Photos by King Rose Visuals and Jason Surkan.