As a monolith shaped by the rigor of the elements, the building stands at the heart of Iqaluit. Volumes appear as if they were dislocated by the harsh climate through the centuries.
Angles and incisive corners remind us of the timeless rock that emerges from the ocean ice.
Driven by titanic tides, sea ice is broken and is stacked on the shore. These strata formed incidentally a tower that points to all horizons. People and light are drawn into the gaps formed by the cracked ice. The warm interior atmosphere challenges and enchants us. A clamor attracts us to its center where the sun plunges in plenty. This is where we find, in this vast arctic desert, a luxuriant green atrium.
Flagship building of a thriving capital, the Siku center aims to become an important engine for the economy of Iqaluit and the Canadian north. Gathering multiple functions and services, it is the locals, the hotel sector, the cultural domain, restaurants, small local producers and small businesses that will greatly benefit from these new spaces. With its 45,000 sqf, this economical and cultural center will also serve as a space for gathering and exchange of ideas through its many classrooms, conference rooms and its small business incubator. A large multipurpose room that opens to the outside will host conferences, shows and major events.
Construction methods and innovative technologies proposed will make of this building a model in terms of sustainable architecture and green design north of the 60th parallel. The main structure of the building will be erected using containers recycled directly from the delivery of materials required for the construction of the building. The important spans of these prefabricated elements allow us to erect large areas quickly. Siku centre, with its disjointed architecture and dynamic angles, evokes the ice, the rigor of the elements and the inuksuk. Its sculptural volumes that assemble together strive to project towards the horizon and intended to act as a symbol of home and national identity.