Care and healing that’s rooted in First Nations understanding of health and wellness
The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) acquired leased office space on the top floor of a commercial building in the city of Williams Lake. We worked closely with the FNHA to convert this space into a primary care clinic to increase access of culturally safe health care services for three First Nations and Indigenous people in the 100 Mile House, Williams Lake/East Cariboo, and West Cariboo areas.
The three Nations, Dakelh Dene, Secwepemc, and Tsilhqotin (15 communities) expressed their vision for a health clinic rooted in local First Nations traditional cultural wellness which informed the design for the Williams Lake First Nations Wellness Centre. The Nations’ vision for the Wellness Centre is to provide integrated primary care services with access to allied health professionals, traditional healers and elders, spiritual wellness providers and programs, family-focused health care, and mental health services.
During our meetings with representatives of the Dakelh Dene, Secwepemc, and Tsilhqotin Nations, we learned that familiarity is important in the healing journey. For example, scents can evoke pleasant memories and feelings of calm. By positioning a kitchen adjacent the main entrance and waiting area, familiar, comforting smells of traditional foods greet patients and visitors upon their arrival.
We provided full scope services comprising design, documentation, tender, construction and post construction phase services for architecture, interior design, electrical, and mechanical consulting services for the wellness center.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
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- First Nations Health Authority
Brian Christianson, Principal, Practice Leader British Columbia
When you can consistently demonstrate that you have your client’s best interests at heart you build trust, and your reach becomes endless.
Blake St. Peter, Designer
My goal is add-value to every design and give my clients more than they expected.
Bryan Burston, Associate, Buildings Engineering, Office Leader
I am grateful to collaborate with amazing teammates on projects where I can learn and develop my skills while engaging with my community.
Shane Brooks, Associate, Electrical Engineer
Our world is changing—moving from fossil fuels to alternative electrification solutions will be necessary. We can help make that a reality.
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