Designing a modern building that gives a nod to history

Alt Hotel at Centrepoint

The Alt Hotel at Centrepoint in downtown Winnipeg is an incorporation of modern design with the existing surrounding prairie landscape. Its exterior façade is a combination of vibrant colors mixed with subtle asymmetrical design that enhances the building’s iconic, yet modern features.

The ground floor contains two restaurants, office and hotel lobbies and a small storefront for emerging local artists. Above this are the four floors of offices, home to IQmetrix and Stantec. The tower houses The Alt, a 156-room boutique hotel and conference center. Inspired by the prairie horizon, the design is a response to the asymmetrical site–a result of differing French and British approaches to land settlement, featuring a façade from the original Mitchell Copp building.

Embracing a concept of theatre and entertainment, the glass walls rise from directly behind the Mitchell Copp façade. This reveals the activity of the patrons who dwell inside the building. Framing the curtain of glass is the inspiration which carries throughout the building –the yellow accent. This further incorporates the concept of the theatre, adding a sense of drama to the exterior of the building.