Monday, August 17, 2009

Pin/Talor Architects

Yellowknife's architecture reflects the necessity of designing buildings that must work in an unforgiving climate. There's lots of trailers, townhouse units, single homes and the remnants of simpler times. A tour of Yk unfolds a mosaic of the past and the future.

The McDonald Drive condominiums designed by Pin/Taylor architects of Yk are clad in zinc slats which are loosely fastened to allow for expansion and contraction. It's beautiful. Pin's home is a wonderful wood structure following the contours of a steep rock formation. "Like a giant eraser lying on the rock". The school in the native community has a pale variegated patina that may be more comfortable with the shadows and light of the snow months. Pin/Taylor's work is noticeable and yet, comfortable in its own skin which is Yellowknife.

A visit to Yk requires a methodical tour of the community, which, my relatives, with their attention to detail, know how to provide.

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