The presentation will focus an indigenous approach to architecture that is based on a synthesis of cultural sensitivity and environmental responsibility. The purpose of the presentation is to describe a methodology to designing buildings that focuses on a holistic view of man's interconnectedness with the environment based on an Indigenous philosophical approach.

Alfred specializes in culturally and environmentally sensitive projects and has extensive experience with First Nations, cultural societies, and educational institutions. His firm is dedicated to developing solutions that reflect the culture, community, and geographic regions specific to each project. The designs are a direct response to site context, topography, climate, and regional materials. And as part of a sustainable design philosophy, Alfred aims to maximize comfort, longevity, functionality, and energy efficiency. Alfred is Status Indian and part of Treaty 8. He was born and raised in Yellowknife, North West Territories, Canada , and was the first Aboriginal person to graduate with honours from UBC School of Architecture in 1993 and become LEED certified and a registered architect. Prior to his architecture degree Alfred acquired a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Urban and Regional Analysis at the University of Lethbridge in 1989. He is influenced by native culture, the northern climate and frontier architecture and his connection to, and respect for, nature is inherent in his work. In 2005 Alfred established Alfred Waugh Architect, a 100 per cent Aboriginally owned architecture practice. In 2012 Alfred incorporated the firm and change the name to Formline Architecture. The firm has developed a reputation for finely crafted cultural and sustainable buildings including the UBC Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre, the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and the First Peoples House at the University of Victoria.

Graphic by Mariah Meawasige (Makoose)