Knucwentwecw Society Office Building | Williams Lake First Nation

Located at Coyote Rock in Williams Lake, BC, the Knucwentwecw Society Cultural Centre is a purpose-built, single-storey community gathering space with a mezzanine, designed to showcase the performance, efficiency, and beauty of mass timber construction in Williams Lake, British Columbia. The approximately 9,800 sq.ft. suspended structure (including roof overhangs) combines cross-laminated timber (CLT), glulam, and conventional framing to deliver a warm, durable, and high-performing building.

A defining feature is the ceiling structure over the smudging room, which features a striking reciprocal frame: a self-supporting system of interlocking beams that support one another without a central column. This feature highlights both the structural ingenuity and visual elegance achievable with mass timber while supporting the cultural function of the space.

The result is a contemporary mass timber structure that balances architectural presence with practical engineering performance. Clean structural lines, efficient material use, and careful detailing create a space that is both visually compelling and functionally resilient. This project reflects a commitment to sustainable building practices, regional material expression, and respectful, community-focused design.

Indigenous Partner: Williams Lake First Nation

Location: Williams Lake, BC

Architect: Thibodeau Architecture + Design |‍ ‍Construction Management: Lauren Bros Construction