Northern Secwepemc Cultural Centre

Completed in 2024, the Northern Secwepemc Cultural Centre is located near the Cariboo Highway in British Columbia’s interior plateau. Created for the First Nations of the south and central Cariboo Regions — Tsq̓éscen̓, Stswecem’c Xget’tem, Esk’etemc, Xat’sull, and T’Exelc — the centre is designed as a place to celebrate and share Indigenous history, traditions, and knowledge, and foster cultural connection with the wider community.

Set on land that holds deep cultural relevance, tied to traditions of migratory habitation, the site itself posed several challenges including a floodplain and a utility right-of-way. These constraints pushed the building to a more secluded spot at the site’s rear. Rather than viewing these limitations as setbacks, the design embraced them by nestling the building into a forested slope. Cedar sunshades along the façade echo the surrounding tree line, and a green roof further reinforces the blend between the built and natural environment.

Simplicity was prioritized in the building’s design to ensure an economical and efficient structure. The centre rests on concrete footings and slab-on-grade foundation, with sloped concrete walls that mirror the incline of the surrounding terrain. These walls, in combination with HSS steel columns, provide lateral support and durability. The roof structure is composed of steel beams and decking, while a suspended wood slat ceiling adds warmth and softness to the interior.

Expansive glazing invites daylight into the building, creating a bright, welcoming atmosphere. Inside, the building’s program emphasizes flexibility and adaptability, with open exhibit areas designed to accommodate a wide range of cultural events and exhibitions — offering a dynamic venue for storytelling, community engagement, and cultural learning.

Completed images by Michael Elkan.