Indigenous Development

Manitou a bi Bii daziigae

Red River College Polytechnic

Designed To Inspire Students: Looking To The Future While Respecting The Past

Manitou a bi Bii daziigae is one of the most advanced and forward-thinking buildings of its kind in Canada. Targeting net zero energy, the building was designed to emit little to no net carbon emissions – an ambitious goal considering Winnipeg’s extreme prairie climate.

Inspired by its site context, the 100,000 sq. ft. building is designed to look to the future while respecting the past. The project includes the adaptive re-use of the historically designated Scott Fruit building adjacent to Red River College’s existing Roblin Centre, a state-of-the-art four-storey addition, and an above-ground pedestrian walkway connecting to the Roblin Centre.

The skin of the new building addition is comprised of photovoltaic glass that generates energy and changes colour according to weather and the angle in which it is viewed.

Inside, a wide array of unique light-filled programming, circulation and multi-purpose collaboration space is designed to inspire students, create a sense of wonder and encourage idea sharing between students, staff, and industry partners.

It is the first RRC Polytech building to receive an Indigenous name. Manitou a bi Bii daziigae is Anishinaabemowin (Ojibway) and translates to where creator sits (Manitou a bi) and brings light (Bii daziigae).

Recognitions

Society for College and University Planning/AIA-CA

Honorable Mention Award, New Building

2024

Fast Company’s Innovation by Design Awards

Finalist, Spaces and Places

2023

Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC)

Excellence in Green Building and Design

New Construction | 2023

Prairie Design Award

Award of Merit

2022

Brownie Award, Canadian Urban Institute, Canadian Brownfields Network

Brownie Award, Rebuild

2022