Tuugaalik High School

Firm

Parkin Architects Limited

Client

Department of Education

Area

32,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$27,000,000

Completion Date

08/2016

Design team:
Robert Boraks (Principal-in-Charge/Project Architect/Designer); Justin Leclair (Job Captain/Designer); Chantal Blatti (Interior Designer); Ken Drysdale (Structural Engineer); Brental Wall (Mechanical Engineer); Mike Noonan (Electrical Engineer)

Tuugaalik high school lies directly on the Arctic Circle in the hamlet of Naujaat, in northern Canada. In addressing the needs of the students, the architect was influenced by Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ)—Inuk guidelines that are meant to inform all aspects of daily life. Elements of IQ that informed the design included respect, being open and welcoming, community service, consensus building, resourcefulness, and caring for the environment.
Traditional methods of Inuit learning were based on teaching survival skills through informal, community interaction. In addition to providing learning spaces associated with southern pedagogy, the design provides spaces for more traditional activities such as fur preparation and carving.
The Kiva (large communal space) celebrates the ascending southern sun, and connections to the Arctic Ocean. The space is meant to be welcoming to community elders who, it is hoped, will feel welcomed to share their traditional knowledge in an informal, communal space. Vibrant colors symbolic of the Arctic’s brief spring, help to dispel negative attributes. Specialized techniques were employed to protect the permafrost and keep snow away from building facades.

Additional Information

Associated Firm

Accutech Engineering Inc.

Cost per Sq Ft

$844.00

Citation

Special Citation

Featured in

2017 Architectural Portfolio

Product suppliers specified

Flooring by Johnsonite
Ceilings by Armstrong World Industries
Ceramic Tile by Mapei
Door Hardware by Ives
Door Hardware by Stanley
Lounge Furniture by Virco
Lounge Furniture by Global Casework
Multipurpose Areas Furniture by Virco
Multipurpose Areas Furniture by Bretford
Office Furniture by Herman Miller
Office Furniture by Global Casework
Science Furniture by Price
Science Furniture by Virco
Drinking Fountains by Elkay
Hand-Drying Equipment by American Specialties
Washroom Accessories by American Specialties
Washroom Fixtures by American Standard
Washroom Fixtures by Pressalit
Athletic Equipment by Seaway Mfg.
Door Hardware by Schlage
Insulation by ROXUL
Movable Partitions/Walls by Hufcor
Roofing by Soprema
Lighting & Accessories by Kenall Lighting
Lighting & Accessories by Philips
Lighting & Accessories by Lithonia Lighting
Emergency Lighting by Philips
Locks by Best Access Systems
Paint/Wallcoverings by Rust-Oleum
Windows by Fibertec Window & Door
Card Systems by Allegion
Auditorium/Assembly Furniture by Virco
Classroom Furniture by Virco
Library/Media Center Furniture by Bretford
Library/Media Center Furniture by Herman Miller
Library/Media Center Furniture by BCI
Washroom/Shower Partitions by Global Partitions
Scoreboards/Clocks by Nevco Scoreboard
Communications Systems by GE Security
Clocks/Time Management by GE Security
HVAC Units by Trane
HVAC Control Devices by Honeywell
IAQ Devices by Honeywell
Kitchen Equipment by Whirlpool
Kitchen Equipment by Amana
Kitchen Equipment by Miele
Kitchen Equipment by Bunn
Draperies/Blinds by Solarfective
Athletic Equipment by Spieth America
Childcare Furniture by ECR4 Kids
Laundry Equipment by Whirlpool
Lockers by Hadrian
Waste Receptacles by Rubbermaid
Whiteboards / Markerboards / Chalkboards by Smart Technologies
Wire Management by Honeywell
Benches/Site Furnishings by Shanahan's Mfg.
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