Posted on June 30, 2025
Arcadis partnered with Water Technology Inc. (WTI), Clark Builders and Yellowknives Dene First Nation to design and build the new Yellowknife Aquatic Centre, which opened on May 5 for recreational and competitive use.
Arcadis calls the $71.7-million facility “one of the most ambitious public infrastructure projects in the Northwest Territories.” Across its 57,000-plus sf, it includes an eight-lane competition pool, a three-lane leisure pool, a splash pool, a waterslide, a lazy river and a therapy pool.
The centre’s steel-framed structure, built on bedrock, relied on a concrete foundation, suspended slabs and rock-socketed piles to support its aquatic systems. In the final phase of design, for example, the main pool’s deep end was moved from the bedrock to a deep sand dune, so as to reduce the need for blasting and, for that matter, enabling a full basement, which could then house the aquatic mechanical room.
The facility uses photovoltaic (PV) panels, solar water heating and triple-glazed curtain walls to improve its energy efficiency while reducing its carbon footprint. Insulation supplier Soprema helped the design team combine rigid and semi-rigid materials in a custom wall system, which reduced thickness while still ensuring high thermal performance.
“Engineering solutions were tailored to ensure the building’s structural integrity, ability to withstand extreme climate conditions and long-term resilience,” says Brad Kimball, principal and civic and government practice group manager for Arcadis, who is based in Edmonton.
Yellowknives Dene First Nation contributed to the project to help ensure inclusivity. Arcadis incorporated Indigenous perspectives and symbolism based on recommendations from collaborative workshops, which informed both structural and interior design. By way of example, the facility’s circular lobby was inspired by the shape and form of a medicine wheel and includes acoustic elements evocative of traditional Dene drums.
Inclusive design was also a priority. Accessibility consulting agency Level Playing Field led community engagement efforts, which helped incorporate feedback from people with disabilities into the facility. For example, each pool offers ramp access to wheelchair users.
“We were proud to help deliver a centre that prioritizes accessibility, environmental stewardship and Indigenous inclusion, while meeting the unique technical demands of building in the north,” says Kimball.
The circular lobby is inspired by a medicine wheel. Photo courtesy Arcadis.
