(click to enlarge)

he Highland Village Centre Concept was prepared by Trifos Design Consultants, in conjunction with a Program Development Plan prepared by Catherine Cole & Associates Heritage Consultants. The existing Highland Village, located in Iona, Nova Scotia, has outgrown the existing Visitors Centre, in both programming and visitation capacities. The existing building has no exhibition space, inadequate archival storage and reference space, limited gift-shop space, insufficient washroom facilities, and inadequate administrative space. Furthermore, the Highland Village does not meet the requirements of the Canadian Culture Property Export Review Board, for acquiring and borrowing exhibits.
The proposed architectural concept for a major addition seeks to maximize the existing museum’s linkages with the site and its existing infrastructure; expand the view potential from the building; and take advantage of the existing, sloped topography. It is envisioned that the proposed layout will significantly improve efficiencies in functional design; as well as administrative, operating, and marketing procedures. To accomplish this mandate, the design rehabilitates the existing structure with new washrooms, gift shop, and entrance/orientation function; and adds new exhibit spaces; efficient and enhanced administration and research spaces; archival handling and storage capacity; and, most significantly, elevator access to the peak of the most arduous incline of the tour.

The proposed design embraces the notion of reutilizing the existing building structure, and rehabilitating and salvaging existing building resources, where possible. In essence, the proposed addition will envelop the existing building, and will be overbuilt with new roofing forms. Wherever possible, the design will embrace the language of traditional vernacular architecture. The building’s sloped-pitch roof forms, fenestration patterns, and accent trims will attempt to acknowledge the heritage of built forms found in the local area. The palette of building materials will respect and enhance the cultural and marketing concepts associated with the Highland Village Visitor Centre. The design shall acknowledge that the Visitor Centre must be an effective repository and visible promoter of the Scottish Highland and Island Culture of Nova Scotia.