After working with the Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) on their student residence on campus, the university retained ft3 to develop a new learning commons, including a parking area, water feature, and landscaped grounds.

The Marpeck Commons, Library and Bridge features a variety of student gathering spaces, including study, seminar and social areas. A coffee bar and bookstore encourage interaction, while the library anchors the facility to the site. The new complex connects the south edge of what will become a feature campus quadrangle with expansive views across to the CMU heritage building.

As a major road runs through the CMU campus, we implemented a new bridge representing a campus gateway. The bridge unites each side of the campus, helping ensure safe, easy, and barrier-free access to all facilities while eliminating the busy roadway below.  This design feature required numerous meetings with the City of Winnipeg Planning Office and Zoning Branch to build the bridge. The bridge received Canadian Institute of Steel Construction's Award of Merit at 2017 Steel Design Awards.

A simple palette of vegetation skirts the foundation walls and contrasts against the Tyndall stone and glass structure of the new library. A large pond with encircling walkways and prairie grasses creates a place for contemplation and relaxation. 

The project connects structures, students, and staff, linking them to their history as they continuously circulate through old and new, past and present, knowledge and discovery. The Library and Learning Commons form a focal point for all aspects of student life, where intellectual, social and spiritual renewal are uniquely experienced.