The best of Saskatchewan design.
Premier's Awards for Excellence in Design
Architecture Category
Award of Excellence
The Lantern, Regina Early Learning Centre
Stantec Architecture Ltd. (Regina)
LeeAnn Croft
Design Statement
A multipurpose space for art and learning, the Lantern is an addition to the Regina Early Learning Center, a leader in the early learning and childcare sector, providing an enhanced preschool environment for children of low income families. In keeping with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education’s recognition of the holistic nature of children’s learning and strong emphasis on the creative process, the Lantern is designed as a space to encourage artistic exploration and inquiry.
Only 100 square metres, the double height atelier built off the south side of the existing building is a simple box, but the simplicity of the space lends itself to creative thinking and imagination. With 7’ windows on three sides, a visual connection to the outdoors plays a key role in the minimal design, aiming to bring the outside in. Like a lantern, coloured glass creates playful projections on the floor that change throughout the day and with the seasons, connecting students to the natural rhythms of the earth. The use of cork and wood further enhance this connection to nature, and radiant in-floor heating creates a comfortable environment for interactive activities.
Opened in September 2009, the Lantern is now awaiting the addition of an artist in residence who will further enhance the artistic experiences available to the preschool children and extend them into the outreach programs for parents and the larger community.
Awards of Merit
450 sq ft Condominium, Regina
Bernard Flaman
1721 - 8th St. E., Saskatoon
Kindrachuk Agrey Architecture
Gerry Agrey
River Landing Pavilion
Kindrachuk Agrey Architecture
Derek Kindrachuk
Addition & Renovations to College of Law Building, University of Saskatchewan
Stantec Architecture Ltd (Saskatoon)
Jim Siemens