The Centre for Creative Arts was designed to delight the art educators and students while providing a robust and functional space for art classes, exhibitions, receptions and other cultural and creative activities.  The vibrant Centre for Creative Arts was designed in an integrated design process with Mechanical, Electrical and Building Envelope considerations tied into the interior design.

Built in the 1920's, this historical brick building was originally used as a bank, and later as a Court House, before being purchased by the City of Grande Prairie to house the Centre for Creative Arts. 

After occupying the building for 15 years, the building needed significant upgrades.

The Centre was re-imagined to have the following spaces:

  • Main offices;
  • Gallery spaces;
  • Gift and art shop;
  • Studio space (for drawing, painting, ceramics, digital, jewelry and glass; and
  • Rentable tenant spaces for local artists to use as studio space to hone their talents.

Reconsidering the colour palette of the finishes was one of the many strategies used to add life and vibrancy to the building.  This simple change allowed the lighting engineer to reduce the number of light fixtures and rely more heavily on daylighting techniques.  Mirrors were also integrated into the interior's design in order to reflect light further into the spaces. 

In place of having new millwork built, the designer took advantage of locating and refurbishing previously owned furniture and storage equipment to use in its place.

The result was the creation of a "fresh canvas" that allows the City's artists to showcase their works in a space that encourages interaction between artists, visitors and various kinds of creative visual media.