INTERWOVEN: Indigenous Gathering Space

Type: Indigenous Gathering Space

Location: Waterloo University Campus, Ontario

Course: Design Studio 2021

Instructors: Amina Lalor, Lola Sheppard, Michelle Fenton, John McMinn

Programs used: Rhino 7, Vray Illustrator, Photoshop, Procreate, Indesign

In collaboration with: Priscilla Subramanian

An integral part of Indigenous culture is the philosophy that universal connectivity can be achieved through personal storytelling. In essence, it teaches us that storytelling and the act of observing and listening to one another connects us to the very core of what it means to be human.

The art of weaving is a universal medium that perfectly encapsulates these philosophies through its ability to transcend time. space, and language -it has a compelling aptitude to connect communities through depiction of local motifs, patterns, materials, and landmarks.

Taking inspiration from the philosophies of Indigenous teaching and the universal motifs of weaving, INTERWOVEN, strives to establish an intimate space within the diverse campus which encourages personal storytelling through the weaving of visual, natural and human connection.

Through INTERWOVEN the diverse community at the University of Waterloo is encouraged to interact with the pavilion through means of guerilla art performances and exhibits, “yarn-bombing”, and other student lead gatherings of their choosing.

Weaving Pattern Weaving Connection

Conceptual Diagrams

Beam Connections Beams + Structure

Foundation Groove for Beams

Students and local artists are invited to weave their own patterns and have it attached to the structural partition

Type: Off Grid Research Facility

Location: Inuvik, Northwest Territories

Course: Environmental Building Design 2020

Instructors: Terri Boake

Programs used: Rhino 7, Illustrator, Photoshop, Indesign

Located within the beautiful tundra of Inuvik, Northwest Territories, “OASIS” strives to become a hideaway into the the very depths of the Canadian wilderness. The space fully embraces its natural environment attempting to work together with what nature has to offer into its program. Using the strong westerly winds, abundance of forestry, and overcast skies, “OASIS” attempts to hone these gifts in order to life harmoniously with its given environment.

In order to reduce carbon emissions, “OASIS” creates a mound using the dug up material from its construction in order to create and earth ridge on its north facing wall. This will provide the facility with extra insulation during its harsh winters.

Timber/wood siding

Metal Roo ng

Self Adhered Flashing Membrance (2) Layers 1 1/2” Rigid Insulation

7” Blown In Insulation w/ R 52 1/2” Gypsum Board

Double Pane (Low -E); clear only on south facing side

1/2” Gypsum Board/ Interior Finish

2x6 Wood Frame w/Studs at 24” distance

Air barrier and 6 mil Vapour Barrier

3/4” Rigid Insulation

1 1/2” Vented Airspace

1x3” Wood Furring Fiberglass Insulation w/ R-Value 68

Wood ooring w/ slate on top

8” Concrete Slab

4” Rigid Insulation 6 mm Vapour Barrier

Gravel

Frost Line depth (~2m)

Metal Roofing w/ skylights and Solar Water Heaters

Interior walls; gypsum board(first and second floor)

Cedar wood siding

30X30 Dark coloured slates

Sun Room

Plywood

Concrete Slab

PASSIVE HEATING

PASSIVE COOLING

ACTIVE SYSTEMS

System Diagrams