The Anishinābe Algonquin communities of Pikwakanagan and Kitigan Zibi have been instrumental in shaping the design of the new OPL-LAC Joint Facility. Read below on how their input and feedback will be incorporated into the design and layout of the OPL-LAC Joint Facility.
Algonquin Territory Recognition
The east entrance to the facility on Albert Street will acknowledge that the building sits on the traditional, unceded territory of the Anishinābe Algonquin People. The plaque will feature a wayfinding wheel with symbols and animal of significance to the Anishinābe Algonquin People, designed by local artist Simon Brascoupé for the City of Ottawa.
Entrance Welcome in Anishinābe Algonquin Dialects
When entering the building at the Albert Street entrance, visitors will be welcomed with an audio recording of Anishinābe Algonquin dialects as a way to honour and preserve the language.
Engagement with the Anishinābe Algonquin Host Nation will continue to develop this project.
Example: University of Toronto Libraries
Wigwam Features
Wigwams were traditional housing for Algonquin peoples. They evoke home, warmth and community.
A round room on the second level, designed as a contemporary rendition of a traditional wigwam will be a space for meetings and functions.
It will be space where Indigenous peoples feel welcome and see themselves reflected in the space through the design, displays and artwork by Indigenous artists.
Engagement with the Anishinābe Algonquin Host Nation will continue to develop this project.
Algonquin Educational Video
A short educational film on Algonquin culture and history will be commissioned and displayed for viewing at the facility. Community members and filmmakers will collaborate to celebrate the Algonquin story.
Engagement with the Anishinābe Algonquin Host Nation will continue to develop this project.
Example: nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up, by award-winning Cree Filmmaker Tasha Hubbard
Colours and polar orientation
Polar orientation and associated colouring have important history for Algonquin peoples. These will be featured in the wayfinding wheel at the Albert Street Entrance as mentioned above.
Simon Brascoupé, Algonquin Territory Wayfinding Wheel
Warmth and Vibrancy in Central Gathering Space
Algonquin community members directed the Architects to design an interior atrium space that is a warm and inviting, not “white and sterile.”
As such the design of the atrium will feature warmth in the wood paneling balustrades of the stairs and balconies. Furniture and design elements will be chosen to reflect this comment and public art will be featured prominently in the space.
Design Rendering, Diamond Schmitt Architects
Showcase Oral Storytelling
Oral history listening stations at the library will include stories and teachings of Algonquin and Indigenous oral traditions. Community members, elders and knowledge keepers will be invited to collaborate in the oral history project.
Engagement with the Anishinābe Algonquin Host Nation and Indigenous communities will continue to develop this project.
Example: State Historical Society of North Dakota
Landscape
The landscape surrounding Ādisōke, and specifically at the exterior indigenous garden area, will include native plants and trees that have traditional significance for Anishinābe Algonquin communities.
A Gathering Circle will be part of the landscape surrounding the Joint Facility.
Landscape Architects PFS Studio will include native plants and trees of local significance in the landscaping. In addition, special gathering places have been designed on the exterior plaza and a terrace on level 2.
Planting Strategies, PFS Studio
Indigenous Art
The Public Art Program has contracted an Art Curator of Indigenous Art who is developing an art program that will include artwork by Algonquin Indigenous artists in the building and/or landscape.