Arviligruaq Ilinniarvik School, Kugaaruk, Nunavut, Canada | Parkin Architects

Following a devastating fire that left the community of Kugaaruk with the loss of its only educational facility, the new Arviligruaq Ilinniarvik School was swiftly constructed within a remarkable two-and-a-half years, reinstating education for kindergarten through grade 12. The design team at Parkin Architects recognized the school’s significance as a vital community resource and approached design with this in mind.

Renamed Arviligruaq Ilinniarvik, meaning "bowhead whale," the school pays tribute to the cultural and ecological significance of the species and its historic return to the region. As a beautiful and modern facility, the new school has sparked renewed pride in the community, leading to increased student enrollment and providing a vibrant space that supports both educational and social needs in Kugaaruk.

The building's layout is thoughtfully organized to support students of all ages, with dedicated floors for kindergarten and older grades. Each level includes a commons area—semi-public spaces designed to encourage connection and collaboration among students. The facility also houses a gymnasium, an exercise room, a canteen, a library, and flexible classrooms that can accommodate public and semi-public events.

Visitors are welcomed through a front entrance defined by high ceilings, a sweeping staircase, and design features inspired by the surrounding landscape. Natural materials like wood and metal, shaped to evoke the motion of ocean waves, are paired with a row of coloured windows that bathe the lobby in daylight, enhancing its warm and inviting atmosphere.

In a nod to the past, materials from the original school were thoughtfully repurposed. Stones from its iconic archway were incorporated into the new trophy case, preserving community heritage and offering a tangible link to the school's legacy.

The project's structural design, led by Accutech Engineering, earned national recognition. In 2020, the firm was honoured with both the "Engineering a Better Canada Award" and the "Award of Excellence" by the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies–Canada.

Project Overview

Location: Kugaaruk, NU
Project Cost: $34M
Facility Type: New Educational Facility
Total Area: 50,000 sq. ft.
Completion Date: 2019