Attawapiskat Youth Centre

The Attawapiskat Youth Centre is a culturally significant community facility designed as an extension of the First Nation's natural landscape. The building incorporates exposed glulam timber construction that replicates the feeling of walking through a forest, with high ceilings and extensive glazing creating an open, optimistic atmosphere flooded with natural light.

The design emphasizes the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces through its timber structure, which extends beyond the building envelope to create covered outdoor gathering areas. The facility features energy-efficient systems including approximately 2,800 sq ft of photovoltaic panels positioned at 60° on the south-facing roof, complemented by battery storage systems for energy independence.

Key amenities include multipurpose spaces, a community kitchen/café, fitness and games rooms, traditional crafts areas, and a greenhouse, all designed to support intergenerational knowledge sharing and cultural activities. The building's orientation optimizes solar exposure throughout seasons while providing wind protection, creating comfortable micro-climates for year-round outdoor programming including a splash pad, fire pit, and playground areas.