Buildings

École Howden

Formerly:Harper Elementary School
Address:150 Howden Road
Use:Education
Constructed:1965
Other Work:1967, second wing addition
Architects:Étienne Gaboury
Contractors:Triple "L" Construction Ltd.

More Information

Originally called Harper Elementary School, École Howden was designed by Étienne Gaboury and built by Triple "L" Construction Ltd. in 1965. The original building consisted of twelve classrooms, although registration rates for the school already exceeded the capacity of these classrooms in their first year, necessitating the construction of an addition. In 1967, a large second wing was planned and built for the school.

The building consists of two wings, set at right angles to each other. The long low design meets in a V at the centre, each wing a flat-roofed single storey with the exception of a larger gym behind the north section and main entrance. The layout of the school is clearly expressed in the rhythmical wall treatment. The original wing consists of brown brick walls interrupted by windows with white siding above, filling in the windows and creating the impression of a white building with a brick building built overtop.

Though originally an English school, École Howden became a French immersion school in 1979 and offers schooling for Kindergarten to Grade 6 students. The school is named after former senator of Canada, the Honourable J.P. Howden, MD.

Design Characteristics

Suburb:Windsor Park
  • Two wings meet at a 45º angle at the centre of the building
  • Flat roof, single storey with the exception of the gymnasium
  • Long, low design
  • Ruddy brown brick exterior contrasts with white panels filling in original windows
  • Clearly expressed layout with rhythmical wall treatment
  • Large yard with newer planting completes the site

Sources

  • "French School Chosen in St. B." Winnipeg Free Press, April 18, 1979.