The Wellness Commons is a multi-family community campus in Edmonton, Canada. Shugarman Architecture designed this project to provide a safe and connected space for indigenous single mothers and their families. This 127-unit development, 42 of which are barrier-free is an enclosed residential community with an integrated daycare serving as its keystone. The building itself features a U-shaped design to maximize southern-facing sunlight with a community garden and courtyard in the center. The street side of the building features curated retail spaces to provide additional value to its residents.

Aesthetically, colour and contrast play an important role in the design. We designed the building with punched windows with playful blue frames serving as a beautiful contrast with the surrounding white stucco.  The daycare itself being the keystone of the development draws the most attention with its multi-coloured chevron panels that direct residents to its entrance. The courtyard further amplifies the contrast and serves to entice residents to mingle and socialize.