A new heart for Algoma University in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, the design of the Mukwa Waakaa’igan Indigenous Centre of Cultural Excellence intends to provide a safe space, welcoming visitors from across the globe to engage with and learn from Indigenous heritage. The architectural design has been articulated through consideration of Indigenous teachings, from building form to material selection. At the gateway to campus is Shingwauk Hall, a former residential school that operated between 1875 and 1970.

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Since the school's official closure, the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA) have been working with Algoma University to teach the truth about the residential school system's history in Canada and work toward healing. The new Cultural Centre's architectural expression comes from the land, rising up through three paths that represent the past, present, and future, and standing above the residential school. This lifted position provides visitors a stronger, more dominant, and dignified vantage point from which to look upon the site's history.

Interior View: Exhibitions: Entrance to Library and Archives

Exterior View: Ramped Rooftop Walkway

View Ascending the Landscaped Roof via Intertwining Paths

View North Toward Wet Meadows

Photo credit: Moriyama & Teshima Architects

Aerial View of Exterior: Winter

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Technical sheet

• Location: Sault St. Marie, Ontario, Canada 
• Client: Algoma University
• Size: Net Program Area- 27,000 SF GFA- 37,000 SF Project
• Team: MTA
• Carol Phillips, Partner in Charge
• Mahsa Majidan, Project Manager
• Smoke Architecture
• Eladia Smoke, Partner in Charge
• Larissa Roque, Intern Architect