Redevelopment of former Hudson’s Bay building reaches new milestone

The Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn project at the former Hudson's Bay building has received a new skylight as redevelopment continues.

A new wooden structure sits atop the former Hudson’s Bay building in downtown Winnipeg as construction of the redevelopment project takes a step forward.

Last week, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) announced the completion of the skylight framing structure for the Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn project.

According to the SCO, the framing is glue-laminated timber, also known as glulam, made from black spruce that was harvested out of Quebec and shop fabricated in Kleefeld, Man.

The SCO noted the skylight’s design was inspired by the 1971 film “César’s Bark Canoe,” a documentary that follows an Indigenous man as he builds a canoe from natural materials.

It added that the structure reflects this film, as it brings together “structural performance and visual grace” and highlights the craftsmanship and artistry of First Nations builders.

The SCO said the glulam structure marks the start of the skylight installation, which also includes structural steel, glazing and gable framing.