The modern Yukon–from the gold rush until the turn of the 21st century–was industrial, driven by development and led by people who were willing to meet the challenges of the land, the climate and the isolation head-on to build a community. The new museum addition pays homage to those people with a building that matches their can-do attitude.

With limited land available to add 1,700 m² of exhibition space, the only solution was to build up and over the historic Telegraph Office, the oldest structure in Whitehorse.  In doing so, the new addition serves to protect the Telegraph Office’s deteriorating roof and foundation without the need to destroy the vintage of the original.

The cladding nods to Yukon’s mining heritage with a wood-look and corrugated steel siding reminiscent of pioneer construction, and the natural zinc reminds us of our biggest mining adventure in Faro. The beauty of Yukon’s endless winter sky full of twinkling constellations is reflected in lights on the facade. An ice-like cave is carved into the corner alcove, mimicking natural formations.