CYFN Family Preservation Centre

Recently completed in the Whistle Bend subdivision of Whitehorse, this new Indigenous women’s shelter is intended to provide a safe space for women and children fleeing family violence and abuse.

The 15,000 square foot centre will provide 15 suites of both low and high barrier residential suites geared for single women as well as women with children. Support services will be provided by on site staff.

The facility has a substantial space allocated for amenity services including a communal cooking and eating area though most living suites are designed to also be fully independent. Outdoor recreation and gathering areas guide the design to help residents maintain a strong connection to the natural environment in a safe and secure setting.

Kobayashi + Zedda was able to create both a protective and communal building form to provide refuge for urban indigenous women fl eeing violence. This safe space is achieved while also nestling the building within the relatively accessible and busy suburban area of Whistle Bend. The design balances the need for protection while maintaining a connection to the community.

The building has been designed to be 55% better than NECB 2017, and includes super insulated and airtight building assemblies (R54 wall, R80 roof ), cold climate air source heat pumps with electric auxiliary heat, and a Tempeff energy recovery ventilator.

CLIENT
Council of Yukon First Nations

LOCATION
Whitehorse

YEAR
2024