November 21, 2018 – Laurentian University’s Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre (ISLC) was honoured last night in Toronto as part of the 18th Wood Design Awards Ceremony organized by Wood WORKS Ontario, a program led by the Canadian Wood Council. The awards program honours people and organizations that are advancing the use of wood in all types of construction through design excellence, advocacy, and innovation.
The ISLC opened its doors in 2017. It features 7500 square feet of space, with a spectacular round room inspired by the wigwam, a traditional building of the Indigenous peoples. The award-winning design has four entry points that face each of the cardinal directions (North, South, East, and West). It also features an environmentally and sustainable green roof, and has views and access to outdoor teaching spaces and the surrounding landscaped area. The ISLC was designed with the input of the Indigenous community and members of the Laurentian University Native Education Council.
“The distinct architectural character of the ISLC provides a visible presence for Laurentian’s Indigenous community. This award is a testament to the incredible architecture and design of this multifunctional round room, a space that has allowed our Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members to gather and celebrate important events such as Laurentian’s biennial Maamwizing Indigenous Conference,” said Interim President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University Dr. Pierre Zundel.
The ISLC provides students with informal study and learning spaces and creates work and teaching spaces for program staff and elders. The room accommodates large groups in a number of different configurations, allowing for teaching, meetings, lectures and special celebrations.
ABOUT LAURENTIAN UNIVERSITY
Located on the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850 territory, Laurentian University recognizes that we are on the traditional lands of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and Wahnapitae First Nation. Laurentian is committed to strengthening the foundation of knowledge in higher education and research to offer an outstanding university experience in English and French with a comprehensive approach to Indigenous education. Together with its federated partners, Laurentian University prepares leaders who bring innovative and intelligent solutions to local and global issues.