The success of this high-profile project was significant to the Indigenous community and public and private stakeholders. Located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the new Southeast Collegiate (SEC) and Student Lodge is a one-of-a-kind facility in Canada, providing high quality education and lodging for Indigenous youth.
A New Collegiate Building
This new two-storey 53,174 square foot school replaces an existing facility and is a fully-contained campus home to students grades 10–12. Indigenous culture is present in every course offered and traditional ceremonies and visits from elders are essential for the growth and development of students.
The new SEC features ten classrooms, a resource room for special needs students, new gymnasium, a state-of-the-art power mechanic shop and commercial kitchen. Capable of serving over 400 people, the kitchen includes a walk-in freezer and cooler, preparation and service area and state-of-the art mechanical and electrical equipment. CPI built the school using structural steel and concrete with open glass on the exterior curtain walls.
Adding the Student Lodge
The Lodge was constructed using wood frame with concrete foundation and glass exterior curtain walls, and includes a state-of-the-art kitchen, fitness centre and elevator. This 29,870 square foot residence with room for over 150 students.
A Focus on Student Safety
Students, staff and visitors are welcomed to the building through an entry plaza incorporating trees and low walls. Modern security measures, including CCTV and personal safety protection systems, were installed to provide students with a safe and welcoming learning environment.
Sustainability
The rear courtyard includes a ceremonial fire pit as well as a bonfire area with a variety of seating options for gatherings. Traditional specialty wood was sourced to reflect the project’s vision of incorporating natural and sustainable elements and was constructed with energy-efficient technology to lower operating costs, enhance indoor air quality and occupant comfort, exceeding the requirements of Manitoba’s Energy Code for Buildings.
