The Doig River Cultural Centre is a 6,000-square-foot gathering place in Rose Prairie, British Columbia. It is one of the northern most Phius-certified Passive House projects and the first certified First Nations community building in the country, providing highly impactful community services within an eco-friendly structure.

Iredale Architecture’s Peter Hildebrand says that while developer clients primarily focus on a building’s performance, “indigenous clients are looking for a coherent vision, a narrative and response to their culture.” 

""Passive House–certified buildings use anywhere from 40 to 90 percent less energy than conventionally built structures. To achieve Phius certification, the center was put together like a puzzle with fully recyclable cladding crafted from post-industrial polymers, a metal seamed roof, large, high-performance windows, solar power, and three-foot thick walls. The center’s air-tight envelope, which even impressed the team’s engineers with its performance upon testing, provides a comfortable interior and minimizes heat loss. Inside, wood slats with acoustical paneling warm up the sanctuary, which includes an awe-inspiring 45-foot ceiling, theater lighting, and baseboard heaters."" - Lauren Jones

Article: This First Nations Cultural Center Is a Symbol of Community and Sustainability