Public is transforming a small classroom into Xthum, a gathering space for aboriginal students in Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s Surrey Campus. Influenced by the traditional woven structures used on the Fraser River by First Nations, the gathering place is more nomadic tent than longhouse. Designed for tomorrow’s students, it is a place for those travelling on their post secondary journey to touch down to meet with friends and learn about their culture. Changing and emerging technologies are embraced in this place through the provision of computers for checking email and digital projection for group assignments. Hand hewn totem poles contrasted by woven cedar wall and ceilingscapes that have been fabricated by state of the art CNC woodworking tools.

Completion: 2009
2010 AIBC Innovation Award
2010 BC Wood Design Award