The people of Mistawasis Nêhiyawak have inhabited Saskatchewan since time immemorial. The community felt their elementary school, due for renovations, lacked an expression of their unique cultural identity. This comprehensive renovation and addition sought to instill pride of place by imprinting the school with this identity.

Our team drew inspiration from the history of this plains people who migrated with the seasons, living in groups of tipis that left imprints on the land, marking their traditional gathering places. The design references the familiar circles on the land through the application of curved motifs to the entrances of gathering and sharing spaces including classrooms, the library, and cultural room. This design served a second purpose of de-institutionalizing the rectilinear spaces and materials of the existing school.

Tipi teachings are inscribed throughout the school, immersing students in their language. These teachings are thoughtfully placed; the more rudimentary teachings are located near the primary years, and more complex ideas near the older children. The seasonally-inspired colour palette reinforces the design, reflecting the natural rhythms that the community has always followed.

The cultural room was reshaped into a circular space for gathering and activities like traditional horticulture. Mobile planter boxes can be rearranged to create small learning niches, a sink was added, and a moppable carpet allows messy learning without sacrificing the ability to sit on the floor.  A viewing mezzanine with was added to allow community members to comfortably view sporting and cultural events.  The school exterior saw a roof replacement and exterior accents in bright copper; a means of reflecting the pride inside the building to the greater community.

This project was recognized with an Honourable Mention at the 2025 Premiers Awards for Excellence in Design.

Structural: BBK Engineering Ltd.

Mechanical: Daniels Wingerak Engineering Ltd.

Electrical: Loren Paley & Associates Ltd.

Contractor: Con-Tech General Contractors Ltd.

Roofing: Clark Roofing Ltd.