Witset, BC
In construction
 

This building is designed to provide a safe and culturally responsive space where Witset First Nation youth can come to heal. The project focuses on creating a wellness-centered residential experience while also considering the role of the community in the healing process.

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Once completed, the Witset First Nation Youth Healing Lodge will accommodate up to six youth for up to three months at a time. Five guest cabins – one representing each of the five Wet’suwet’en Clans – will be integrated into the site to accommodate visiting Elders and allow for family members to visit and engage with programming. The intent is for youth, visiting Elders, and community leaders to build connections over their shared experiences at the lodge and for the lodge itself to be a focal point, grounding these connections firmly in Wet’suwet’en territory and strengthening a sense of belonging.

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The design of the lodge and surrounding landscape embody this approach to healing through connection to the land. Reminiscent of Wet'suwet'en traditional pit houses, the lodge will be nestled right into the hillside, allowing direct access from the hill onto the green roof.⁠ In keeping with the community’s commitment to environmental stewardship, the building is designed to meet the Passive House standard of energy efficiency and will utilize low embodied carbon materials wherever possible.