Buildings

396 Assiniboine Avenue

Address:396 Assiniboine Avenue
Use:Offices
Original Use:Architectural office
Constructed:1978
Architects:IKOY

Recognition and Awards

  • RAIC Millenium Award, 2000
  • Governor General's Medal, 1982

Design Characteristics

Size:1600 square feet
Suburb:Downtown
  • The building is a two storey structure clad in brick on the east and west facade, with glazing on the north and south elevations. The front of the building has two main entries; one at grade, and one on the second floor, which is accessed via a steel staircase painted a vibrant red. The rear of the building, facing the Assiniboine River, is a mirror image of the north elevation, including the two entries and the same steel staircase.
  • The firm sought to reveal and highlight construction systems -- calling attention to uncovered elements -- with paint. These colours were typically canary yellow, red, green and maroon.
  • Ron Keenberg described these offices as a breakthrough project for the firm.
  • Double height interior, with mezzanine.

Sources

  • Architectural Record 171 (1983): 146-9.
  • Architectural Review 167 (1980): 318.
  • Architecture Minnesota 8 (1982): 40-45.
  • Keenberg, Ron. Sex, Violence and Architecture. Hushion House Publishing, 2006.
  • Thompson, WP. Winnipeg Architecture. Winnipeg: Queenston House, 1982.