The Mount McKay Pow Wow Grounds holds historical significance for the Fort William First Nation, dating back to the early 1930’s as a gathering space to celebrate and share their culture and heritage. FORM designed a new wooden circular outdoor arena that mirrors the traditional medicine wheel with four entrances at each of the cardinal points, and semi-circular bleachers with a seating capacity for 560 people. The raised centre arbour is the focal point, hosting a sacred fire pit and poured concrete foundation to accommodate a drum circle. The design also includes a partially covered Elders tent and a patterned cement walkway around the perimeter with open views to the outside grounds and Mount McKay.
Client
Fort William First Nation and True Grit Consulting Ltd.
Architect & Structural Engineer
FormStudio Architects Inc.
Mechanical & Electrical
AG Engineering
General Contractor
RML Contracting
Construction
2014 Completed
