Get ready to discover the hidden gems of Sudbury with our "Places of Sudbury" campaign! As we gear up for the highly anticipated OAA's 2023 Conference, Designing for Dignity, we've scoured the region to uncover the most exciting locations that will be showcased at the bespoke conference event in June.
Our campaign celebrates the richness and diversity of the Sudbury region, from its resource extraction and regeneration to its remoteness and unique design challenges. This year's conference will be held at the gateway to Northern Ontario, providing us with an unprecedented opportunity to collaborate with local communities and engage in meaningful conversations about how our profession can promote dignity for all. Join us as we celebrate the "Places of Sudburv" and discover what makes this region an exciting place to live, work, and play!
1. Where?
Science North has become one of Northern Ontario’s most beloved institutions, inspired by the geology of its unique location. Situated on the southwestern edge of Ramsey Lake, just south of downtown Sudbury, Science North offers fun, hands on, in depth learning experiences for visitors of all ages.
2. What?
Featuring a special exhibits hall, a tropical butterfly gallery, an IMAX Theatre, a digital planetarium, and so much more, Science North is committed to providing inspiring, educational, and entertaining science experiences. A ramp spirals its way from floor to floor, offering exceptional views both inside and outside the building. Four floors of interactive exhibits invite visitors to engage with what makes Science North one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern Ontario.
3. Why?
Designed by Raymond Moriyama, the building itself was informed by its particular geographic identity. The inspiration for the architecture was the extraterrestrial collision that blasted out the third largest crater known on Earth—the Sudbury Basin—almost 2 billion years ago. Two hexagonal snowflake-like structures form the basis of the building, with a central tunnel navigating the elevation change between them. The tunnel concludes at an underground cavern, used as a theatre, an exhibit area for special displays, and as an auditorium for guest presentations. The snowflakes are clad in stainless steel, fittingly made out of nickel sourced from Sudbury.
In its early stages, the building was designed to put Sudbury on the map, a goal which it has certainly achieved. For nearly three decades, Science North has become a destination for exploration, learning, and wonder. The rock tunnel, which passes through a billion-year-old geologic fault-line, was unintentionally found only after construction for the building had already begun. So, what else can visitors discover here at Science North? Sign up for the conference sessions below to learn more!
Join us for an unforgettable time at the OAA 2023 Conference in Sudbury, featuring exciting events at Science North! Explore the interactive exhibits and stunning architecture, including the iconic building inspired by Sudbury's extraterrestrial collision. Don't miss the Science North: Case Study, President's Reception, SHIFT2023 Challenge and Honours event, and Archifête party, complete with food, drinks, and stunning views of Lake Ramsey. Plus, experience the thrill of watching presentations and honours events inside a cave blasted out of solid rock. It's an opportunity you won't want to miss!