Douglas Cardinal

Who is he?

An Indigenous Canadian architect based in Ottawa, Ontario. He brought into architecture a unique emphasis on curvilinear forms and the connection of buildings with nature. [1]

Figure 1 [1]

Cardinal's Own residence.

An astonishing piece of architecture that blends in with the hill to its sides (Fig 2) though the layering of its sides and the slanted roof. Small yet important details that exemplify the blending and inspiration of building with nature. The wave structure (Fig 1) further emphasize the characteristics of aunty (specifically of water).

Figure 2 [1]
Fig 3 [1]

Canadian Museum of Civilization and Public Works

His gorgeous usage of forms can be seen in this scene as well. Though might not look as complex as Zaha Hadid's Heydar Aliyev Centre, it still rich in design and shape. The front layering that is curves through for a window and the entrance creates symmetry that can still support the dome. Furthermore, this layering contrast with the repetitive columns on the sides creates a new aesthetic (due to the harmony for three completely different shapes: columns, dome, and wave layering)

Figure 4 [2]

UNCEDED: Voices of the Land

An exhibition showcasing 18 Indigenous architects from Turtle Island along with Cardinal. It is meant to celebrate the Indigenous architecture create hope and pride in Indigenous designers across Turtle Island.

"It is intended to rely on the ideas indigenous architects express in their work and in this project, such as showcasing work informed by the indigenous spirituality, respect for people, and that communities and all life-givers as being one in the “dance of life.” [2]

It is an emphasis on the influence that Cardinal's culture has in bringing is unique and amazing design skills. The idea of architecture being based and inspired by nature. A perspective that is refreshing compared to to lot of urban design that tends to be complex to the point of standing out from nature.

Sources

[1] https://www.stirworld.com/think-columns-canadian-architect-douglas-cardinal-believes-buildings-must-grow-out-of-nature

[2] http://www.djcarchitect.com/work/#/unceded-voices-of-the-land/