Trains, Plains, & Automobiles

Creating Connectivity within the New Aboriginal Building Site

Arch 523/ARST 423: Sustainability in the Built Environment

Assignment 2

Sumer Matharu Akira Ohtake

Camilla Christensen Arely Zavala Olmedo

Stephen Hews Caila Anderson

Amanda VanderZee Mike Crawford

Executive Summary

We were commissioned to identify an exemplary site of approximately 3000 sq.m., for

a proposed Aboriginal Center, within the lands owned by the client, The University of
Calgary. The selected site considers the needs of Aboriginal students, fosters greater
integration of campus and Aboriginal life, and provides a venue for local and national
Aboriginal gatherings. Additionally, the site celebrates Aboriginal values with an iconic
design, showcasing sustainable building practices, and displays sensitivity to environ-
mental, economic, and social equity. Criteria for the site selection was informed by the
University of Calgarys mandate, interviews with representatives of the Native Center,
cultural research, and site specific characteristics.

The analysis identifies several objectives:

1. prominent location that confirms the clients respect for Aboriginals
2. multi-modal accessibility
3. minimize demolition or disturbance of existing infrastructure
4. avoid visual or functional competition with other buildings
5. encourage intercultural usage and invite student interactions
6. neutral space around site that could be used for cultural events
7. a sense of respite and connection with natural elements (sun, earth, wind, water).

Several locations were assessed based on these criteria, resulting in four sites being
evaluated for comparison. One site was self evident in meeting the many criteria. The
selected site possesses the qualities of respect, inclusivity, connectivity, and harmony
with the natural environment.
2.0 Introduction
Our design firm was engaged by our client, the University of Calgary, to identify a location for a
proposed Aboriginal Center, within university lands. The client specified the size of the building
to be 2000sqm, and the footprint to be approximately 3000sqm. Our client advocated a respect
for Aboriginal and University values; a commitment to sustainability, notably, environment, eco-
nomics and social equity; and an intent to create an iconic landmark to be celebrated.

Consultation with stakeholders identified criterion that informed the site selection. The follow-
ing proposed site best meets the requirements of all. The specifics of the criteria, process and
site rationale are presented as follows.

3.0 Criteria:
Criteria for the site was informed by consultation with representatives of the Native Center, as
well as consideration of Aboriginal students, the University of Calgary, Treaty 7 Nations, and
the Public. These criteria were categorized into: cultural values; campus integration; Aboriginal
Center requirements, landmark.

3.1 Cultural Values:

Representatives of the Native Center noted cultural considerations particular to the Aboriginal
community. These considerations include:
a connection to the four elements (earth, air, fire, water)
building orientation to sunrise and sunset;
a natural landscape;
accessibility for Aboriginal students who use public transit;
integration into campus life;
fostering interactions between Aboriginal and other students;
respectful location that offers reconciliation towards Aboriginals.

3.2 Campus Integration:

The success of any facility can be measured by the quality of experience of its patrons. Addi-
tionally, a successful building enhances the social fabric of its user. Consideration must be given
to the physical proximity to other amenities and facilities, as well as the flow of student life
between classes throughout the day.
connectivity through existing pathways;
modifications or additional pathways as required;
accessibility for student body and public.
3.3 Aboriginal Center Requirements:
The Aboriginal Center will perform a variety of functions including both ceremonial and edu-
cational. Ceremonial functions will require convenient and high quality access for dignitaries,
open spaces for the large gatherings, and access to natural landscapes. Educational functions of
the center will require proximity to classes in other faculties, support for families and childcare,
accessibility to public transit, visibility and inclusivity in campus life and activities, as well as
operating as a home away from home for visiting and Treaty 7 aboriginals.

Connection with Natural environment

visual connection with outdoors;
reduce sound pollution and provide opportunities for natural sounds (trees, birds);
access to open space;
create harmony between site and building;
celebrate and respect the spiritual sense of place;
ample sunlight;
elements of fire, earth, wind, and water;
use of natural materials and in building and site landscaping.

Sustainability
capture solar gain and reduce adverse wind effects;
green roof that serves as public space and ability to grow herbs and culturally valued
vegetation;
mitigate environmental disturbance;
conscious of cost of site preparation;
make use of existing infrastructure and services (efficiency).

Accessibility
proximity to multi-modal access;
encourage casual student interactions;
serve as a place of study and use for all campus users.
3.4 Showcase
The Aboriginal Center will become an iconic landmark and meeting place for Treaty 7 peoples
and visitors. Accordingly, the site must have high visibility and a central location that compels
respect and social equity.
site to be located in high profile location;
central site to reconcile historical practices of pushing aboriginals to periphery;
location that encourages intercultural use and invites interaction with rest of campus;
a view that is not competing or framed by other buildings...distinct, photogenic, etc;
encourage familiarity for other students.

4.0 Comparison
Four sites were compared based on the mandate of respect, inclusivity, connectivity, and aware-
ness of the natural environment. Each site was evaluated according to their unique opportuni-
ties and challenges.

Campus Map

West Campus

East Campus

Central Campus

Soccer Pitch
Site Name Advantages
West Campus 1 exposure to the four elements
(Near Childrens Hospital) connection to the mountains
(grandfathers)
proximity to Childrens Hospital
high visibility to traffic on the
highway
great access by existing roads
proximity to future campus
expansion plans
open-space available for Aboriginal
ceremonial gathering
East Campus located at the entrance to the
(by the C-train) C-train station
large site
natural grading directed towards the
access road
high student traffic
sun exposure
high visibility for both students and
public traffic
central to main campus activity and
movement
Central Campus the heart of the campus
exposure to both students and
(by McEwan hall)
public foot traffic
limited topographic constraints
adequate sun exposure
Soccer Pitch exposure to the elements
open-space available for Aboriginal
ceremonial gathering
accessibility by road
at the crossroads of future campus
Disadvantages
placement at the periphery of the
campus boundary
poor accessibility for visitors
traveling via transit
perception of insult at being placed
at periphery of campus
Inclusivity of student body is
hampered by distance from main
campus
development would not reach this
site
concerns about proximity to
infrastructure and its attendant costs
poor slope integrity and slumping
towards the outside edge of main
campus
noise pollution associated with
commuter and foot traffic
limited opportunity for outdoor
events
appropriation of well used green
space
competitive visual hierarchy of
surrounding structures
pedestrian pathways would require
relocation
limited available land
detached from core campus area
poor accessibility by foot
limited natural landscaping
current allocated land use
5.0 Site Selection
Respect, inclusivity, connectivity and awareness of the natural environment informed the devel-
opment of the recommended Aboriginal Center site, (the site). This location celebrates the
University of Calgarys mandate of people first while also showcasing its leading edge design
and sustainable building practices.

The site is located on east campus, nestled between the Child Care Facility, Administration
and Professional Faculties, and the Biological Sciences and Social Sciences Buildings. The main
entrance is located to the east, facing Campus Drive. The site would receive the rising sun as
students make their way to campus from the LRT.

5.1 Site in Plan View

East Campus Site Outline

Building In situ

5.2 Photos of Current Site

North East
 Looking North-West Looking Further North-West

5.3 Building In situ

Building in Perspective

Building in Elevation
5.4 Comparison: Site Sections

SECTION 1 Site Proposal

SECTION 1 Site Proposal

SECTION 1 Actual Site

SECTION 1 Actual Site

SECTION 2 Site Proporsal

SECTION 2 Site Proporsal

SECTION 2 Actual Site

SECTION 2 Actual Site

SECTION 3 Site Proporsal

SECTION 3 Site Proporsal

SECTION 3 Actual Site

SECTION 3 Actual Site

Accessibility:
Accessibility is a core design consideration if the site is to fulfill the dual role of being both an
educational and civic institution. The Aboriginal Center will benefit from existing circulation
paths of pedestrian and bike traffic, as well as its proximity to LRT and main traffic corridors.
The paths are illustrated in the following diagrams, which depict typical pedestrian volumes and
movement patterns at the site.
Proposed Site Accessibility and Connectivity

Site Vegetation Map Circulation Flow Map

Site Cirrculation Map

LR T
LEGEND
Highest Use Pedestrian Paths
Proposed Additional Pathways Proposed additional pathways
Medium Use Pedestrian Paths
Roads & Parking
Low Use Pedestrian Paths
Roads & Parking Highest Use Pedestrian Paths
Desire Lines for Pedestrian Paths
Medium Use Pedestrian Paths
Low Use Pedestrian Paths

Parking: Desire Lines for Pedestrian Paths

The Aboriginal Center will function as a venue for symbolic meetings and act as a place of as-
sembly for dignitaries. As such, sufficient parking that allows for comfort in all weather condi-
tions should be provided. An underground parkade, accessed from the existing lot 25 would
increase the quantity and quality of parking stalls servicing the area. The building footprint
would require the removal of lot 25, and the loss of ~70 uncovered parking stalls. Situating
the site at the location of a low value existing parking lot reduces costs as well as disruption to
nearby infrastructure such as paths, utilities, and natural landscaping. The proposed parkade
would upgrade the parking from 70 to 140 stalls (assuming 30sq meters per stall and a 2 level
parkade), providing covered, heated parking, appropriate for the needs of the Aboriginal Cen-
ter. The parkade could serve the needs of the nearby Haskayne School of Business, Professional
Faculties and Campus Administration, potentially allowing for partial project recovery cost.
Existing Infrastructure:
The site would tie in to water-mains on the east perimeter, requiring only modest and tempo-
rary disturbance to the road. There are no water-mains, gas lines, power lines, or other infra-
structure underlying the proposed site. All infrastructure and utilities can be accessed within
30m, thus reducing cost and time of construction

Exisiting Storm Water Infrastructure

Storm Water Catchment Area

Drainage:
As shown above, the existing site sits in a depression approximately 0.3-0.6m below the nearest
storm drain and road elevation. This equates to a negative slope of ~1.2%, and thus requires
alterations to the existing grade. It is recommended that the elevation be raised from 1106.7
to 1107.5m, with radial drainage away from the structure. This will ensure the facility does not
incur drainage issues or adverse effects of prolonged moisture along the concrete footings of
the structure.

Drainage along the East and North facades of the facility would be onto the adjacent roads.
Due to the limited catchment area on both of these facades, this is not anticipated to increase
storm run-off substantially. Along the South and West facade of the facility, drainage will
require an engineered catchment slope that directs water towards the storm drains, approx-
imately 50m away, which parallel the east edge of parking lot 28. Additionally, dry cisterns
could be installed along the east perimeter of the pedestrian paths to capture excess water in
rainfall events. Cisterns would mitigate damage to green-space and pathways due to excessive
moisture. A green roof comprised of sedums and moss would provide rainwater catchment for
over half of the site area (2000 sq meters of 3000). As a whole, the facility will not significantly
alter existing drainage patterns or cause excessive run-off.

Disturbance:
Construction would require the removal of the existing pavement and infrastructure of lot 25.
Additionally, a number of existing trees and bushes would require removal or relocation. The
associated impacts of this requirement are considered minimal. Loss of existing vegetation
would be addressed through extensive plantings and the green roof. The proposed location of
the building would not adversely impact sight-lines, paths, or traffic flow, nor would it impose
significant shadowing on adjacent facilities.

Environmental Consideration:
Local soil types anticipated are clay rich soils suitable for vegetation to a depth of 0.6-1.5m
depth, underlain by several meters of sandy clay. [NEEDS NOTATION] These are typical of the
area and pose no particular technical consideration for building construction.

Solar Gain and Natural Light:

The site and building orientation allow for maximum solar gain from sunrise until noon through-
out the year. The green roof is oriented to absorb early and mid-afternoon heat, reducing ener-
gy loads required to manage temperature fluctuations, as well as allowing for a longer growing
season of plantings. The late afternoon and evening sun could result in excessive heat on the
west face of the facility, and consideration should be given when choosing cladding materials
(glass, concrete, etc). The glazed north face of the facility would experience net heat loss, and
is not optimal from an efficiency standpoint. However, the benefit of attracting the attention of
passing pedestrians drives the social sustainability and inclusivity of the site.
 Solar Incidence Map

The facility will be exposed to an unob-

structed sunrise and sunlight in all sea-
sons. This enhances the visual appeal
of the structure and site and the expe-
rience of the building patrons. During
the winter months, the facility will
experience minimal shadowing from
nearby buildings in the mid-afternoon
due to the low angle of incidence of the
sun. The diagram below indicates the
solar path at various time of the year.

Legend
Summer Solistice
Equinox
Winter Solistice

Wind:
Prevailing winds influencing the site originate from the northwest during the summer months
and the southwest in the winter. The surrounding buildings and existing vegetation will dra-
matically buffer wind in both directions leading to reduced associated heat loss. The following
diagrams illustrate the expected wind shadowing experienced on site.

Natural Surroundings:
The four elements fire, water, earth and air are integral to aboriginal tradition (Bastien
1999:114); the site offers all four. The buildings glazed area and entry lie along an East-West axis
with no view or light obstructions, building the connection with the element of fire. The planned
ornamental pond which will surround the Center creates a connection to the element of wa-
ter, while the green roof and proposed garden emphasizes connection to the land. The rooftop
garden would provide the Center with access to the plants and herbs used in ceremony, and
traditional cuisine. The site makes use of existing and newly planted foliage to provide a sense of
seclusion while maintaining a connection to the wider university campus. Staff and students will
be able to hear the leaves rustle in the wind, and the plantings will also alleviate any possible
sense of compression caused by the surrounding buildings.

Noise:
Noise could be a concern during peak traffic hours due to the proximity to a main artery road,
and the LRT. Plantings of soft landscaping features as well as trees along the boundary of the
facility and the road would reduce noise pollution.
5.6 Design solutions for site:
As previously noted, the site has a few challenges (loss of the parking lot, heat loss, loss of pub-
lic space, additional land for ceremonies) that must be considered. Some design solutions for
these challenges are:
1. undergound parking, to address loss of surface parking and accommodate increased
demand.
2. glazing of the Aboriginal Center should balance the demands of light, heat and views, in
consideration of the existing buildings surrounding the site. Given the cultural require-
ment for a connection with the land, and the other creatures who inhabit it, it might
also be wise to employ bird safe glass.
3. a green roof which is accessible to the public would ensure a minimal net loss of existing
public space.
4. shuttle access to the hillside grassland environment at West Campus would provide for
the needs of additional outdoor space for Aboriginal ceremonial and cultural purposes.

6.0 Conclusion:
The proposed site is uniquely qualified to meet the program and requirements of the planned
Aboriginal Center. When oriented with the entrance to the East, the building would fully inte-
grate with the land, existing pathways, and flow of student life. The site is well suited for sus-
tainable practices in that it allows for solar gain, is exposed to minimal winds, causes minimal
environmental disturbance and realizes efficiencies owing to proximity to existing infrastruc-
ture.

At present, the site is adjacent to a primary point of access to the campus, a connection point
for the Childcare Facility, and parking. Integrating the Aboriginal Center at this location would
improve upon each of these functions. Additionally, the proximity of the site to multi-modal
access would encourage community participation and intercultural dialogue. The iconic design
and distinct location of the center honors the Aboriginal needs for a connection to the land.
This will be a site that Aboriginals can proudly call their own.

The center will serve Aboriginal students as well as the greater student body and the public.
Aboriginals will have the opportunity to thrive in an environment that reflects their culture, art,
history and values. Students will have a distinct space in which to study and meet while absorb-
ing the history, art and culture unique to the Treaty 7 peoples. Ceremonies, gatherings, Pow-
wows, and instructional classes are all within the purview of the Centers daily operations.

In summary, the site fosters respect, inclusivity, connectivity, and integration into the natural
and social environment. The iconic design and location honors the needs of Aboriginals, the
University, students, and the public, parlaying into an enhanced student and cultural experi-
ence.
7.0 References:

1. Bastien, B. J. (1999). Blackfoot ways of knowing: Indigenous science. (Order No.

9955003, California Institute of Integral Studies).
2. http://uofcpress.com/books/9781552380444 (a blackfoot framework for decision mak-
ing...)
3. Spoonhunter, T. L. (2014). Blackfoot confederacy keepers of the rocky mountains. (Order
No. 3623571, The University of Arizona).
4. Hernandez, N. (1999). Mokakssini: A blackfoot theory of knowledge. (Order No.
9933131, Harvard University).
5. Inanloo Dailoo, S. (2009). Takht-e-soleyman and head-smashed-in buffalo jump: The
recognition and conservation of world heritage cultural landscapes.
6. Venhaus, Heather L. 2012. Designing the Sustainable Site : Integrated Design Strategies
for Small Scale Sites and Residential Landscapes. Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley &
Sons.