Gabriel Dumont Institute Office Addition

Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Date:  2018-2019

Client: Gabriel Dumont Institute

Role: Design Architect

Architect of Record: Edwards Edwards McEwen Architects (EEMA), Saskatoon, SK

Area: 9000 sq ft.

The Gabriel Dumont Institute (GDI) in Saskatoon were planning an addition to their existing office building on 22nd Ave in Saskatoon when they learned of David’s research into Métis architectural history and contemporary design. Following a few presentations about Métis architecture and potential for the new addition, GDI requested that David work with the team to develop a culturally appropriate approach to the addition.

The building combines a contemporary office facility with some traditional detailing including adding an Accoya wood siding  around both new and existing buildings with a chevron pattern to reference the Métis sash, a celebrated entry canopy expressing the Red River frame, timber stair treads referencing the dovetail notches of the Métis folk home, and various interior details to celebrate the spirit of contemporary Métis architecture. The building has a gallery that is home to the largest collection of Christi Belcourt’s paintings, a store front selling Métis literature and art and the Fisher Gallery.

(Photos below by King Rose Visuals. Sketch by David Fortin.)