This ceremonial building was designed for Tribal rituals and celebrations. Cuningham Group worked closely with Tribal leadership to determine how Ojibwe culture could best be embodied in the new building.
Reminiscent of traditional native wigwam and pole structures, the resulting octagonal space complements the surrounding natural environment while providing a sheltered space for sacred activity. The north/south entries of the building mark the “people path” while the east/west entries note the “spirit path.” Because drums are significant in many Ojibwe ceremonies, a “drum warmer” is located outside the main entrance. Out of respect for the Ojibwe reverence for natural materials, designers made use of a maple floor, fir structure, and cedar log walls.