GRANVILLE ISLAND INCUBATOR | 2025
Academic - In Collaboration with Tarek Mokhalalati

Contemporary architectural practice often refers to Indigenous design at a superficial level, rather than its foundational methods of building, land stewardship, and social organization. This project is part of the comprehensive studio grounds design decisions in Indigenous construction principles, material relationships, and spatial values. Situated on Granville Island, this project proposes an incubator of creativity that utilizes a mass-timber structural system drawing on traditional Indigenous building practices and contemporary technologies to address current needs. Western red cedar is used as the principal façade material, supporting cultural continuity while addressing both climatic and durability concerns. Site design strategies draw on the local ecology to achieve a strong integration of the building with its site, rather than isolating it from its surroundings. This project advances a sustainable, systemless architecture grounded in material intelligence and environmental reciprocity. The design will invite exploration and celebrate the Indigenous art of building, positioning architecture as an act of respect, continuity, and co-presence.

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