Saddle Lake Junior/Senior High School

Nestled in the hills near St. Paul, Alberta, this new school is strategically located enjoy an unobstructed view across the rolling plains while still being position close to the heart of the community.

The school is a unique reflection of Cree culture, the surrounding landscape and the educational vision of the Saddle Lake First Nation. The plan evokes the image of the eagle, a powerful symbol for Cree people; a bird of independence, vision, pride, and power.

Most of the rooms in this facility are non-rectangular in plan and section, providing extra dynamism to interest the students, staff and community members who spend many hours in the school. The classrooms have exposed wood ceilings and beams that provide a soft 'sky', while the walls are finished in soft neutral colours.

Floor patterns in the public spaces allude to a traditional story that may be interpreted or simply enjoyed.