Celebrating the Cree way of life
Peerless Trout First Nation (PTFN) is an Indigenous community anchored around the Peerless and Trout Lakes in Northern Alberta. In Peerless Lake, the community required a new K-8 school that reflects their culture while creating a superior learning environment for students.
The project includes a stage, library, administration spaces, gymnasium, and a commercial kitchen. Humbled by an Elder’s memory of narrow double loaded corridors from the residential school system, our team designed the school as an open, single-loaded hallway bending in an arc, allowing for an abundance of natural light in all corners of the school. As bridging consultant, we provided full architecture, engineering, and community engagement services to bring this 200-student school to life.
As you walk past the teepee entry, the building opens into a large gathering space used for education and community events. Adorned on the wall are the Seven Sacred Animals, pillars of Cree teaching, while the floor represents Peerless Lake, allowing students to point out their homes along the shoreline. Now built, Elizabeth Quintal School will help shape a bright future for the community and celebrate the enduring legacy of PTFN.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
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- Alberta Infrastructure
- Partners
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- Peerless and Trout First Nation
- Article
- First Nations school design case study
- Award
- LEsolutions Design Awards, Juror Award, 2021
Heather Bretz, Principal, Architecture
For many of us, some of our first memories of buildings come from our schools—spaces that I believe should be welcoming, healthy, and inspiring.
Zoë Rezac, Communications & Aboriginal Engagement Specialist
Embedding local culture and community voices into school design allows traditional values and teachings to be part of everyday education.
Micheal Williamson, Landscape Architect
Pay attention to the world around you; think about how to improve public life. As professionals, we increase quality of public life for all.
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