First Nations

In the last 30 years, First Nation projects have comprised more than half of KNH’s total work. Over this time we have developed a close working relationship with many bands and organizations, having worked for over 80 First Nation communities. This growth has been built primarily through word of mouth referrals based on a demonstrated track record of successfully completed projects and mutual respect.

We understand the great importance of designing buildings, which maximize local labor and sub-trade opportunities. We work collaboratively with every band to ensure their interests are upheld.

As prime consultants, we are involved in every step of the project from budget consideration, site selection, infrastructure availability, site drainage through to selecting the appropriate building systems and components that best serve the project. KNH has the experience and expertise to successfully complete all types of First Nation projects.

Benefit of Service

As a full-service prime consulting firm, we work closely with you through each phase of your project design and identify design solutions that deliver functionality and the best overall value to your project.

More information

KNH works to holistically maximize the benefits for each First Nation by working collaboratively with the local community on every project.
We think holistically and work collaboratively with the local community including local housing and construction teams, local public works, maximizing journeyman training hours and facilitating funding application opportunities for the First Nations people for training initiatives in order to bring a benefit to the entire community through each project.
Our efforts increase project longevity and lower maintenance costs through the functional design of building components and operating systems.
We design with functionality and budget in mind. We help to lower operational costs through energy-efficient and robust components that maximize life cycle costing. We understand operation and maintenance budgets are tight. We collaborate upfront with our clients to design components that will last so they don’t have excessive costs later. We find the best overall value in what we select for our designs.
KNH strives to increase local employment opportunities by matching the operating systems in our building designs to the local workforces available.
The operating systems that we select have to match the expertise of the local labour force. This helps to minimize downtime for repairs as well as maximize education and employment opportunities.
Our team works closely on culturally important aspects of building designs and are sensitive to the cultural needs of every First Nation.
We are sensitive to the cultural significance of building designs for First Nations projects. Whether for artistic expression, building direction, or a design that is important due to its cultural importance, we work closely with our First Nation clients on these meaningful aspects of their building designs.