At the entrance doors, carved massive cedar, its concrete structure seems inconspicuous. The building is set in grassy berms, a forest glade of firs and cedars, stream "fountain", native garden planting, a large reflecting pool and gravel beds. Visitors stroll under a tree canopy to see informative signage and a replica longhouse at the rear of the museum where the concrete outline is evident.
This building is an homage to the magnificent totem poles and massive longhouses of the Pacific Northwest indigenous people. High walls of glass bring light and glass inside and highlight the monumental totems and outside there are breathtaking reflections of the sky and water pool. The sky and water become the backdrop for the wood and metalwork on display in the great hall. The concrete structure respects First Nations indigenous longhouse construction.
What is most impressive is its massive overall structure and large glass walls and magnificent landscape design.

Written by Myrna Franke (UBC Alumna 1975)

In use. The condition of the building is excellent with recently improved landscaping and improved interior galleries.