Location
  • Vancouver, BC
Client
  • YWCA Metro Vancouver, Vancouver Public Library, City of Vancouver
Completion
2018
Size
  • 3,938 sq m
  • 42,388 sq ft
Collaborators
  • Applied Engineering Solutions Ltd
  • Cobalt Engineering
  • Haebler Construction
  • HAPA Collaborative
  • Recollective Consulting
  • RJC Engineers
DIALOG Services
  • Architecture
  • Interior Design
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The Vancouver Public Library, the City of Vancouver, and YWCA Metro Vancouver worked with DIALOG to provide an inclusive gathering space and affordable housing for single mothers and their children in an integrated effort to find a unique solution and enhance Vancouver's Downtown East Side with civic services. This project pairs a public library with affordable housing. It is named nə́c’aʔmat ct (Musqeum for ‘We Are One’), and is the first building in Vancouver named in a Coast Salish language. Its novel progamme strengthens the neighbourhood's social fabric by providing safe amenities.

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Inclusion Peoples of all races, genders and classes converge at
n?´c’a?mat ct. The design provides an inclusive space for all, attracting the immediate community and visitors from all over Vancouver.
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Community enhancement Its dynamic façade speaks to the Downtown East Side's vibrant existing community and is a reflection of the North Shore mountains.
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The design recognizes the importance of enlivening the street. The library in particular is inviting and intriguing, drawing people in with its bright colours and angular nature.
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The library's open-concept is layered with a variety of bookcase sizes. This, plus a centralized library kiosk, enhances sight lines and enables passive security. 
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The distinct environments are expressed through age-appropriate furniture. The kids' area is open and encourages social interaction and story time. The teens section has social lounges and nooks.
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The adult section is decorated with a major public art piece, and features elegant seating for patrons.
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A wood-slatted wall creates a seamless visual journey from the front entrance to the end of the library and warms the room. This installation also doubles as noise absorption.

Meet The Team

See more team members
It's not about changing the community. It's about elevating the experience.
Michele Sigurdson - Interior design principal
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Affordable Housing 01

The YWCA Cause We Care House

The affordable housing portion of the project occupies the upper floors of the project. It's a 21-unit low-income, supportive housing facility for single mothers and their children. 

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Affordable Housing 02

Amenities are beautiful, and curated for the enhancement of all occupants' lives.

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Affordable Housing 03

Units feature materials that dignify the space and make inhabitants feel like they could be in any condo in downtown Vancouver.

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Affordable Housing 04

Home-like feelings are achieved through the wood-vinyl flooring, millwork, and fine bathroom finishings. Patios extend from the shell, overlooking a communal garden space.

Evoke new ideas for community enhancement

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Special Feature

Rooftop playground and garden The back of the programme functions as a safe place for children to play and mothers to gather.
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Special Feature01

The colours shine bright in summer and winter alike.
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Special Feature02

They bring warmth and stimulating environment to the YWCA Cause We Care House.

Awards

2021 Award of Excellence, Equity, Architecture Foundation of British Columbia

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