Collection by Matthew Keeshin

Publicly Endorsed

Known for their creative solutions for civic buildings and schools, explore the process of the Canadian firm HCMA Architecture + Design in their most recent book PLACES: Public Architecture featuring their signature projects.

The back of the library features cutouts that are illuminated in the evening. 

Photo by Hubert Kang
The back of the library features cutouts that are illuminated in the evening. Photo by Hubert Kang
Designed to be a flexible space for future generations, it's easy to understand how the community of Edmonton embraced the new library with its signature form and inviting entrance. The transparent entrance puts visitors on display in an exciting way and confirms that this is not just a library, but a hub for activity. 

Photo by Hubert Kang
Designed to be a flexible space for future generations, it's easy to understand how the community of Edmonton embraced the new library with its signature form and inviting entrance. The transparent entrance puts visitors on display in an exciting way and confirms that this is not just a library, but a hub for activity. Photo by Hubert Kang
As the result of the Living Building Challenge (LBC), it was important for HCMA to create an early childcare center that connected with nature. UniverCity Childcare utilizes solar power, a rainwater collection system, and radiant in-floor heating just to name a few of the sustainable details. The center became only the seventh building in the world to be registered with the LBC. 

Photo by Martin Tessler
As the result of the Living Building Challenge (LBC), it was important for HCMA to create an early childcare center that connected with nature. UniverCity Childcare utilizes solar power, a rainwater collection system, and radiant in-floor heating just to name a few of the sustainable details. The center became only the seventh building in the world to be registered with the LBC. Photo by Martin Tessler
Like their work with libraries, the Steveston Firehall is another project that reinterprets a classic typology into an icon for the community. Replacing an old firehall in Richmond, British Columbia, the new facility was relocated to the intersection of two main roads as a way to welcome visitors the area. The firehall uses a combination of wood and metal for the exterior. To provide natural ventilation, the opposite ends of the building are complete with glass which can open up. By dividing the firehall up into three sections, light fills up the spaces in-between.   

Photo by Hubert Kang
Like their work with libraries, the Steveston Firehall is another project that reinterprets a classic typology into an icon for the community. Replacing an old firehall in Richmond, British Columbia, the new facility was relocated to the intersection of two main roads as a way to welcome visitors the area. The firehall uses a combination of wood and metal for the exterior. To provide natural ventilation, the opposite ends of the building are complete with glass which can open up. By dividing the firehall up into three sections, light fills up the spaces in-between. Photo by Hubert Kang
The firm designed a perforated playhouse for Canfor Forest Products Ltd.'s inaugural Playhouse Challenge in 2012. The playhouse is made from marine-grade plywood and simple cedar furring strips. 

Photo by Ryan Nelson
The firm designed a perforated playhouse for Canfor Forest Products Ltd.'s inaugural Playhouse Challenge in 2012. The playhouse is made from marine-grade plywood and simple cedar furring strips. Photo by Ryan Nelson
Located in the Prince George province, the Duchess Park Secondary School features a versatile atrium for students to meet and connect. An acoustic wood wall articulates the main space. 

Photo by Martin Tessler
Located in the Prince George province, the Duchess Park Secondary School features a versatile atrium for students to meet and connect. An acoustic wood wall articulates the main space. Photo by Martin Tessler
The Whistler Library was designed to accommodate the increase in population when ski season gets into full swing. The Resort Municipality of Whistler has a population of 10,000 but with tourists enjoying the mountain slopes, the population reaches 55,000 people. As an anchor to the community, the library is positioned as a cultural destination for both locals and visitors. 

Photo by Martin Tessler
The Whistler Library was designed to accommodate the increase in population when ski season gets into full swing. The Resort Municipality of Whistler has a population of 10,000 but with tourists enjoying the mountain slopes, the population reaches 55,000 people. As an anchor to the community, the library is positioned as a cultural destination for both locals and visitors. Photo by Martin Tessler