Today, the importance of cultural diversity and inclusion is more evident than ever before, especially in the architectural landscape. Architects and designers are increasingly recognizing the significance of integrating indigenous design principles into their projects. At Parkin, we’ve embraced this practice wholeheartedly, actively incorporating an indigenous approach to the spaces we design. In this blog, we’ll delve into how we take this multi-faceted approach to bring a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity to our projects.
“When it comes to indigenous design, it is really important for us to have a holistic approach. This means thoughtfully designing spaces from the very beginning and meaningfully weaving the indigenous concepts and values into our projects.” – Gina Martino, Interior Designer
Understanding Indigenous Design
Listening to the Heartbeat of the Community
At Parkin, we understand that authentic indigenous design can only be achieved by engaging directly with the indigenous communities whose cultures and traditions we aim to honor. This begins with an open dialogue and desire to listen and learn. We collaborate closely with indigenous elders, leaders, and community members to identify their unique needs, values, and aspirations. This process involves meaningful conversations and cultural exchanges to gain a deep understanding of the community’s vision.
Collaborating with Indigenous Experts
To ensure our designs remain authentic and true to the intent, we take a collaborative, co-creative approach. We consult indigenous architects, designers, and end-users who possess invaluable knowledge of their respective cultures. This collaborative approach not only enriches our projects but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride within the indigenous community. Through this dialogue, we co-create spaces that reflect the culture’s essence while meeting contemporary functional requirements.
Rendering: Cowichan District Hospital, Design by Parkin Architects Western Ltd. and ZGF Architects Inc.
Blending Tradition with Modernity
Incorporating Elements from the Land
One of the key aspects of our indigenous design approach is the seamless relationship with the surrounding natural landscapes. We believe that a true connection to the land is essential for indigenous-inspired design to flourish. Our architects carefully study the local environment, drawing inspiration from natural elements such as flora, fauna, and topography. This connection to the land creates a sense of belonging and anchoring in the spaces we design.
Celebrating Indigenous Artistry
Art is a powerful expression of culture, we recognize its significance and embrace its impact on designed spaces. In our projects, we prioritize the inclusion and representation of local indigenous artists, giving them a platform to showcase their talent and cultural heritage. From art installations that tell stories of the past, to contemporary creations that symbolize the future, our spaces become canvases for indigenous artistry and ingenuity. This not only enriches the aesthetics of our designs but also contributes to the growth of the local creative community.
Red Fish Healing Centre for Mental Health and Addiction
At Parkin, our approach to indigenous design goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that bridge cultures and foster a sense of purpose and connection. By actively involving indigenous communities, collaborating with experts, connecting with the land, and celebrating indigenous artistry, we ensure that our designs are not just structures but living expressions of our culture and tradition.
Tuugaalik High School (Repulse Bay)
In the ever-evolving field of architecture and design, we believe that embracing indigenous design principles is a powerful step towards a more inclusive and culturally rich future.
Source: https://www.jamiebanfield.ca/journal/indigenous-design
Source: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/indigenous-architects-infusing-values-1.6496101