Thunder Bay architects win award for Gathering Circle

The architects behind a unique structure at Thunder Bay's marina have been recognized with an international award.

The Gathering Circle, an outdoor pavilion in the Spirit Garden at the city's waterfront, was designed by Ojibway architect Ryan Gorrie and the Brook McIIroy Architectural Firm in Thunder Bay.

They received a 2013 International Architecture Award from the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and the European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Design.

"The people ... and the architectural firms that apply [for that award], some of the work is outstanding," said Sean Serino, an associate with Brook McIlroy. "So to be among that work is quite humbling."

The Gathering Circle puts a modern twist on a traditional Aboriginal bent-wood building technique and incorporates First Nations art along the drum-shaped base.

"It's a very unique structure," said Serino. "It has a feel and it has a sense of place."

According to the Brook McIlroy website, the Gathering Circle is one of 60 design projects selected from around the world that will be featured at the 14th International Biennial of Architecture in Buenos Aires this fall.

"It's a proud moment for us as a firm and I think for the city [of Thunder Bay] itself," said Serino.