“Kakatoosoyiists” or Star Lodges.

This project delves into the role of Concrete 3D Printing (C3DP), also known as Contour Crafting, in the development of dignified, culturally appropriate Indigenous housing. The Star Lodges project, located in the Siksika Nation of Alberta is the first 3D printed project in the province and the largest of its kind in Canada. The project is comprised of 16 transitional homes aimed at providing temporary housing options to community members during emergency situations. These homes were designed under the guidance of Blackfoot Elders and Knowledge Keepers Eldon Weasel Child and Bren Little Light and built in partnership with Siksika Housing and Nidus 3d, a company specializing in Concrete 3D printing technology. The project strategically leverages the potential of C3DP to streamline the construction process, enhance durability, reduce maintenance costs, and improve the energy performance of housing. Additionally, the project aims to offer design flexibility, democratize the design and construction process, and address the longstanding housing crisis that has persistently affected Indigenous communities for generations. 

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Team:

Project developed under the guidance of Siksika Elders: Eldon Weasel Child and Bren Little Light

Siksika Housing: Ryan Hall, Trevor Running Rabbit, Cody Wright, Gaylene Own Chief, Happy Grove, Raven Black

University of Calgary: Mauricio Soto Rubio, Fauzan Mirza, Mustafa Kagdi

3D Printing: Nidus 3D

Roofing Systems: Remuda

Mechanical Systems: MCW Hemisphere Ltd.

Structural Engineering: Rocky Mountain Engineering

Civil Contractor: Rommens Construction

Doors and Windows: Centra Windows