HAL'AW TOWNHOUSES (Golden Eagle)

Cayoose Creek, British Columbia, 1990

"Fly like an EAGLE,
let my spirit carry me."
            ~  Steve Miller
                   

Hal'aw (Golden Eagle) multi-family housing accommodates a mix of residents including disabled, elders, and families. The design responds to the hot, dry climate of the Lillooet region, and the S7istkn cultural traditions of the Cayoose Creek "Sek'wel'wás" community. The design concept recalls traditional "S7istken" (pithouse) vernacular. References incorporated in the overall design, structure and detailing include:

• Indigenous materials - local logs, shale
• Selection of colour palette from local environment reflects the 4 elements—Earth, Air, Fire, Water
• Expression of roof structure relates to traditional cosmologies—main log rafters correspond to the 4 cardinal directions
• Sustainable, green design elements include: energy efficient design, use of verandas and large overhangs for protection from the hot summer sun, accessible units

A self construction process was employed. Local materials and resources were utilized. All logs were harvested and prepared by the community from their own renewable wood lot.