Credits

Design Director: Chris Herringer

Senior Designers: Jacqueline Tang, Aleks Bozovic

Project Designers: Shira Choi, Monika Meyer, Rachel Wallace, Michelle Rawlings, Raymond Cheung, Kevin Cortez, Doug Hildebrand

Collaborators: Mary-Beth Laviolette, Curator

Gail Lint, Art Collections Consultant, Alberta Foundation for the Arts

Quyen Hoang, Public Art Program Coordinator, City of Calgary

To deliver on YWCA Calgary’s vision of creating ‘a cohesive, supportive environment for women and their families’, six ‘design drivers’ were applied to the wayfinding approach: well-being, connectivity, inclusion, beacon, comfort and safety. The design provides innovative opportunities for storytelling and human connection while addressing the diverse needs and uses of the facility, including transitional housing, healing and counselling programs, education and employment programs, childcare and parent support and public multi-purpose facilities. The approach uses the power of art to celebrate culture, diversity and community, creating a unique showcase that blends artwork with social need and service.

Judge's Pick

The incorporation of art pieces from local women artists into this wayfinding and donor recognition system generates a home-like sense to the building that goes beyond beautifying the space. Honouring art from the community puts other women in touch with their heritage and has a direct impact on community pride and solidarity.