Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre and Whitehorse Library

Client: Kwanlin Dün First Nation
Location: Whitehorse, YT
Completion Date: 2011
Size: 1,950m² (21,000 ft2)
Award: 2012 Prairie Wood Design Award

Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre and Whitehorse Library

Client: Kwanlin Dün First Nation
Location: Whitehorse, YT
Completion Date: 2011
Size: 1,950m² (21,000 ft2)
Award: 2012 Prairie Wood Design Award

Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre and Whitehorse Library

Kwanlin Dün First Nations Cultural Centre represents a community reclaiming and embracing its rich heritage. On the banks of the Chu Nínkwän (Yukon River), the Kwanlin Dün have created a Centre in honour of their unique culture and way of life.

The Longhouse is at the heart of this facility – a place for gathering, storytelling and celebration. Imperative to design development was that, from the river, this Centre would present as “a village” of traditional longhouses orientated towards the river. For the Kwanlin Dün, the “front” of the building is the facade which fronts the river and traditionally, is the Longhouse’s point of entry.

The outdoor space between the river and Centre represents a natural place of congregation and reinforces a connection between the people and river. A large fire pit circle was designed to encourage both informal and formal gatherings and the landscape design created a revitalized and enhanced visual relationship between the centre, outdoor spaces and river.

Fundamental to Kwanlin Dün is the belief in the everyday presence and influence of their ancestors. The lobby space and corridors were carefully designed to provide for the subtle integration and display of art, information and photographs describing the lives and history of its people.

A designated space for reflection and purification was created. Here, the motif of a circle referencing the medicine wheel has a dominant presence on the ceiling and floor. The wheel is divided into four coloured quadrants representing human qualities; spiritual, mental, physical and emotional.

The Library is orientated to overlook the river, where the upper level reading room and collection spaces feature large glazed areas and a deck. This also reinforces a desire for the Centre to be integral to the modern city of Whitehorse; where library use has increased significantly since its relocation.

It’s in our DNA… Engagement. Respect. Expertise.