The Canadian Museum of Civilization has two pavilions architectural design amazes with its evocation of the salient features of the configuration of the country. Inaugurated in 1989 and directed by Canadian architect Douglas Cardinal, the Museum refers to glaciers, majestic curves of the administration building symbolize the Canadian Shield, while the Esplanade simulates the printing of vast plains. The location and size of the latter were designed based on the same look to embrace the two iconic buildings and the Parliament buildings located on the other side of the Ottawa River. However, the lack of interest from the Esplanade rendered desolate in any season. To remedy this situation, our response is to extend the original conceptual metaphor materializing what remained latent in it: poetic reinterpretation of the Prairies.
The topography Prairie translates implantation mounds on the Esplanade now traversed by winding paths that refer to both curves Museum and soft and subtle embossed Prairie. Stone, granite floor follows the sinuous ridges. The development of an urban prairie in this environment creates a microclimate, increases biodiversity, reduces the heat island effect, improve air quality, in short, makes it more attractive and comfortable space for the public, without harming the breathtaking view that characterizes the place.
In order to enrich the visitor experience, our Prairie Urban design is developed from a fruitful dialogue with the architectural uniqueness of the Museum, to evoke in the city, these vast expanses of Canada.
