Lakeside Wellness Retreat
Drawing inspiration from the traditional Iroquois longhouses, this Wellness Center design weaves together community, nature, and culture. Through a series of interconnected spaces, both indoors and out, the center fosters belonging while celebrating Canadian artistry and the natural landscape; offering an immersive, soulful retreat for individuals and families alike.
Client's Vision
To create a wellness destination where architecture acts as a bridge between cultures, community, and the environment, honoring Indigenous design principles while offering modern comforts rooted in nature.
Design Strategy
The project’s architectural foundation draws from the iconic form of the longhouse, interpreted through a modern lens. Light wood materials, expansive glazing, and indoor-outdoor transitions define the experience, allowing visitors to stay connected to the natural beauty of the site while enjoying communal amenities and private retreats.
Key Challenge
Design a wellness center that merges traditional Indigenous longhouse principles with modern amenities, while maintaining a strong connection to nature and supporting community engagement.
Our Solution
We crafted a modular longhouse system where communal hubs and individual suites seamlessly expand across the landscape. Natural materials, curated Canadian artistry, and a continuous interplay between indoor and outdoor elements created a space that feels authentic, flexible, and deeply connected to its cultural and environmental context.
Defining Moments
- Architecture inspired by the Iroquois longhouse, modernized for today's travelers.
- Integrated communal and private spaces for a flexible guest experience.
- Feature elements like an indoor/outdoor fireplace and sunken conversation pits.
- Showcasing Canadian artists and furniture makers throughout the facility.