Modern stone building with curved arch window reflecting in water at dusk.

The expansion weaves Indigenous and western knowledge systems together across all aspects: understandings of science, worldviews, values, and aesthetic considerations. The sacred landscape that surrounded the site was intertwined with the built environment to encourage contemplation of the area’s history and heritage, including elements such as Nanaboozhoo (the Sleeping Giant), Gichi Gaming (Lake Superior), and Anemii Wajiw (Thunderbird Mountain).

Modern building with curved architecture surrounded by greenery next to calm water reflecting the scene under a cloudy sky.
Where braided knowledge guides discovery.
Spacious modern indoor atrium with tall wooden columns, curved ramp, and large tree trunks surrounded by visitors.
Spacious modern indoor gallery with wooden canoes on display and people interacting near large windows overlooking water.
Spacious modern interior with wooden beams, large windows, tree trunk sculptures, and people walking and sitting.
Modern glass and wood building on a hillside overlooking a river with trees and bushes in front.
Modern building with large windows and flat roof surrounded by snow and broken ice chunks on a partly cloudy day.

Sustainable features include low-impact design strategies to address its contaminated soil and adjacent railway in Thunder Bay, and all-electric systems in Kenora to eliminate fossil fuels. The emphasis on regeneration and ecology exemplifies the Anishinaabe concept of inaakonigewin, the responsibility and recognition of the interconnectedness of Earth’s living beings.