Chevalier Morales

The Saskatoon Central Library is a major Canadian public project designed with a strong commitment to reconciliation. The project evolved through ongoing dialogue between the Canadian architectural consortium Formline Architecture | Chevalier Morales | Architecture49 and Indigenous communities, including their elders. Given that Saskatoon has the highest ratio of Indigenous residents in Canada, it was essential for these voices to actively shape the discussions surrounding the creation of this shared social and intellectual space.

The library aims to reflect Saskatchewan's cultural diversity through architecture. Its geometry draws inspiration from the traditional sloping form of a tipi, while the internal wooden structure evokes the characteristic interior of a Métis home. This design allows for expansive, open, interconnected spaces, minimizing barriers and creating an ideal setting for Indigenous and Western knowledge exchange.

The library embodies a vision of coexistence, rooted in a genuine commitment to the reconciliation process. Beyond the typical offerings of a library, it provides services tailored to the social integration needs of the Indigenous community and fosters inclusivity for the broader community. A unifying energy is felt through the layout, featuring shared worktables, hybrid common-use rooms, an amphitheatre, and a kitchen, all designed to foster connection and community engagement.