Yaronta
Exhibition pavilion on the Huron-Wendat Museum site, reflecting on cultural identity through craftsmanship.
The project is an exhibition pavilion situated along the trail of the Huron-Wendat Museum. It serves as both a physical structure and an interpretive element, honoring the cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and identity of the Huron-Wendat First Nation. By integrating traditional design elements, the pavilion enriches the museum's narrative, offering visitors an immersive experience into the Huron-Wendat culture.
Site (46.8570, -71.3579)
Hunting territory
In Huron-Wendat tradition, the birch tree holds profound significance as a vital resource for survival and cultural expression. Its versatile and abundant bark was essential for crafting shelters, tools, and means of travel. During the autumn hunting season, men would build temporary birchbark huts, reflecting the nomadic adaptability central to their way of life. This pavilion conceptually reflects the wigwam—a traditional birchbark dwelling—honoring the birch's significance in Huron-Wendat culture. Located along the Musée Huron-Wendat trail, the pavilion extends the museum's narrative, offering an immersive experience that bridges history, culture, and nature.
Plan
The pavilion's design pays homage to birch bark by interpreting its layered structure, textures, and dual-sided nature. Crafted from dark plywood, the exterior mimics the bark's inner surface with rich, rust-like tones and a weathered appearance, while the lighter-toned interior provides a serene canvas for art displays. Layered curves and interstices invite exploration, creating spaces to pause, reflect, and connect with the environment. Blurred thresholds and hidden doors enhance the tactile experience, encouraging visitors to discover entrances through touch. Like encountering a magnificent tree during a forest walk, the pavilion offers a fleeting moment of beauty, providing a space for contemplation or simply to admire its sculptural presence within the landscape.
Model, Wood