w?k??an??s t? syaq??m Elementary School by hcma architecture + design. Photo credit: Andrew Latreille
w?k??an??s t? syaq??m Elementary School is the Vancouver School Board?s first completed school to be constructed entirely of prefabricated CLT (cross-laminated timber) panels, a material that reduces embodied carbon and makes for a calm learning environment.
The school is part of a Vancouver School Board pilot project to assess the possibilities of mass timber for future schools and was designed by hcma architecture + design. It features bright, open spaces and learning communities that aim to encourage focus and collaboration. Other thoughtful additions include alcove and window seating that offer moments of quiet and retreat.
The school?s new h?n?q??min??m? name means ?the sun rising over the horizon? and was gifted by Musqueam Indian Band, who was inspired by the Hastings Sunrise neighbourhood where the school is located. The school features tons of natural light and extensive use of wood, and the interior has a fundamental, grounded quality, which is complemented by views across the site and beyond to the city and Coast Mountains. The $22.4 million (CDN), 3,385 sq m / 36,436 sq ft. school is able to accommodate a total of 340 students and is located in a predominantly single-family residential neighbourhood in northeast Vancouver. The 3.45 acre site contains three tiers which include the existing school located on the upper tier, the new replacement school on the middl...