By Sarah Klein
Mountain Equipment Co-op on Portage Avenue (WOLFROM ENGINEERING)
A new award to recognize the best in Manitoba architecture and design has been unveiled by the province.
Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger announced the annual Premier’s Award for Design Excellence on Friday on the rooftop of Mountain Equipment Co-op on Portage Avenue. The commercial building is Manitoba’s first LEED property, designed by local firm Prairie Architects Inc.
The award’s introduction comes as the Manitoba Association of Architects marks its 100th anniversary.
“Local firms are earning praise and awards from national and international organizations, and I believe it’s time we also honour our best and brightest here at home with the recognition they deserve,” Selinger said.
Winnipeg is currently hosting the national Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) Festival of Architecture, which began Wednesday and runs until Saturday.
The province will consult with the MAA in the coming months to establish criteria for the award, but all Manitoba-based firms will be eligible, regardless of project location.
