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Transforming a historic schoolhouse to create a sustainable space for learning about Indigenous language and culture

At a Glance

  • Net Zero

    Designed

  • 36.5

    Megawatt Hours/Year

  • 0

    Fossil Fuels

Location
Kingston, Ontario
Offices
Architect
CSV Architects
Image Credit
CSV Architects

Kingston Native Centre and Language Nest - Adaptive Reuse and Renovation

Located on the traditional lands of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples, the Kingston Native Centre and Language Nest (KNCLN) serves as a place for cultural connection and inter-generational learning. It was founded by a local group of Indigenous language lovers and learners seeking to uplift the community through peace, strength and collective spirit. While supporting Indigenous-led initiatives, the centre is dedicated to fostering an environment of openness and acceptance for all who wish to engage with and learn about Indigenous culture.

To bring this vision to life, we worked with CSV Architects and the City of Kingston to transform a historic 1873 schoolhouse into a vibrant, modern community hub. The renovation included full accessibility upgrades, new offices, gathering spaces, a teaching kitchen, and a fire circle, each designed to support cultural learning and connection. Sustainability was a key focus, guiding the design to meet net zero energy goals through high-efficiency systems and a rooftop solar array that can expand over time.

Our work encompassed a suite of engineering specialties, from restoration of the historic stone masonry, to design of the on-site solar arrays. These efforts not only preserved the building¡¯s heritage but also prepared it for the use of future generations.

With this solar powered, net zero designed centre, Kingston can offer a community space that honors tradition while embracing sustainability. It¡¯s a powerful example of how existing buildings can support climate goals and community needs¡ªmaking KNCLN a model for inclusive, resilient design in Kingston and beyond.

At a Glance

  • Net Zero

    Designed

  • 36.5

    Megawatt Hours/Year

  • 0

    Fossil Fuels

Location
Kingston, Ontario
Offices
Architect
CSV Architects
Image Credit
CSV Architects

Meet Our Team

Josiah Fogarty, Associate, Structural Engineer

It¡¯s always rewarding to bring our ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ to clients, developing creative solutions for their projects and helping realize their goals.

Daniel Kraemer, Technical Lead

I¡¯ve learned that striving for diversity in my skillset, while maintaining an open-minded learning style, results in a successful career.

Hodhan Osman, Sustainability Consultant

Our dedicated and passionate teams strive to expand the possibilities in sustainable design.

Jeff Schroeder, Senior Principal, Buildings

For me, engineering is about providing a sense of confidence with integrity.

Kellen Wadden, Mechanical Engineer

Every project is an opportunity to solve complex challenges, innovate, and impact the environments we interact with every day.

Mike Xu, Senior Electrical Engineer

My job serves the community, contributes to society, and helps improve lives.

Josiah Fogarty

Associate, Structural Engineer

Daniel Kraemer

Technical Lead

Hodhan Osman

Sustainability Consultant

Jeff Schroeder

Senior Principal, Buildings

Kellen Wadden

Mechanical Engineer

Mike Xu

Senior Electrical Engineer

We¡¯re better together

  • Become a client

    Partner with us today to change how tomorrow looks. You¡¯re exactly what¡¯s needed to help us make it happen in your community.

  • Design your career

    Work with passionate people who are experts in their field. Our teams love what they do and are driven by how their work makes an impact on the communities they serve.

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