A digital rendering of the front perspective of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Elders Centre Expansion, featuring the building’s entryway. The exterior design of the building resembles the form and character of a traditional Coast Salish Longhouse. The glazed façade on the left side of the image looks into the new lounge space. The right side features a ramp to the entry, as well as an outdoor bench integrated with a location to feature Sḵwx̱wú7mesh art.

Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw North Shore Elders Centre Expansion

Location

Xwmélch’sten (Capilano, North Vancouver, BC)

Since October 2023, Elders, Xwi7ski!, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw, Nch’ḵay̓ and Hiy̓ám̓ Housing staff have been working together to enhance the well-being of Squamish Elders within both existing and new Elder care programs, homes, and gathering spaces. hcma was engaged by the Squamish Nation to complete the pre-design for the expansion of the existing Elders Centre in Xwemélch’stn community which informed a business case presented to council in April 2024.

Council approved the North Shore Elder Centre expansion Needs Assessment (April 2024) and Business Plan (May 2024) to accelerate next steps in delivering the addition. Located in the Xwemélch’stn (Capilano) community, the existing Elders Centre includes a dining hall, community kitchen, lounge space, games room, wellness room, and supporting offices and storage. The project will include the renovation of the existing building and the expansion of an additional 4940 square feet of program space, improving accessibility, space needs and creating a long-term community gathering amenity for Elders.

Through ongoing engagement with Elders, a co-created design has emerged, envisioning an expanded Elders Centre with room for up to 140 Elders to gather and share meals. Enhancements like accessibility, acoustics, and cultural activity spaces have been a long-term vision for Elders. In particular, Elders identified improvements to facilitate important cultural traditions, including an arts and culture room large enough to accommodate looms for weaving and other uses, traditional gardens with outdoor covered areas, and a kitchen large enough for traditional food preparation and storage.