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Buildings

Drake Centre

Address:181 Freedman Crescent
Use:Classrooms
Offices
Constructed:1987
Architects:Étienne Gaboury
Firms:Gaboury Associates Architects Inc.
Contractors:Alpha Masonry
Tours:Part of the QR Code Tour

More Information

This four-storey, 130,000 sq. ft. structure houses the Asper School of Business and the Transport Institute. The building, named the Drake Centre after donor and chair of Drake International Bill Pollock, is finished in red brick with decorative stripes of Tyndall stone. The choice of material pays homage to the neighbouring historic Taché Hall. The exterior of the building is quite restrained with ribbons of windows providing the main decorative element.

The site was chosen by architect Étienne Gaboury for the view across Freedman Crescent to the Red River and for its proximity to the central campus buildings. A large central atrium brings natural light into the interior spaces and provides the opportunity for students and professors to cross paths or gather to discuss ideas.

Recognition and Awards

  • Manitoba Association of Architects Award, 1989

Design Characteristics

  • Red brick finishing
  • Decorative stripes of Tyndall stone
  • Ribbons of windows provide main decorative element of the building
  • View of the Red River
  • Large central atrium with lots of natural light

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