The Conestoga College Waterloo Campus reveals a place that celebrates Indigenous culture, fosters community and educates visitors about the history of the land and the Indigenous nations.  The goal of the landscape is to speak to all Indigenous students, faculty, staff and community members on campus, and those who may come from anywhere on Turtle Island or beyond.  The design must pay homage to the land, people and culture that came before it.

Design is an interpretation of sensory experiences.  Whether celebrating a site’s existing characteristics or inviting one to create and discover new interactions, perceptions are built on the layering of senses in unique ways.  Establishing a storyline of place, the courtyard landscape should evoke emotion, inspire, and assist in building cross-cultural relationships and a deeper understanding of Indigenous land-based practices and Knowledge.

Building upon the previously approved concept design, SDG was retained by the College and Gow Hastings Architects to provide Indigenous and cultural design elements to the courtyard space.  Elements include shade structures and shade relief within the courtyard space, gardens for plant medicines, Indigenous trees and cultural markers, inspirational paving materials, and suggestions for site furnishings for gathering and event spaces.  The landscape design will incorporate Indigenous design, storytelling, and culture to create a warm, welcoming, and comfortable environment.