Winnipeg Architecture Foundation – Hidden Winnipeg

Project

The Winnipeg Architecture Foundation (WAF) launched *Hidden Winnipeg*, an online exhibition supported by Digital Museums Canada (DMC) to showcase the hidden histories of Winnipeg’s modern architecture from 1945-1975. This digital project opens WAF’s archival vault to the public, offering access to architectural drawings, oral histories, photographs, films, and other materials that tell the stories behind the city’s buildings and the people who influenced these transformations. A unique aspect of *Hidden Winnipeg* is the community-generated map, encouraging users to contribute their own historical insights, fostering a space for both education and knowledge exchange.

Challenge

Creating *Hidden Winnipeg* under the guidance of Digital Museums Canada presented several challenges, as the project had to meet DMC’s rigorous requirements, especially regarding accessibility. To ensure a highly inclusive experience, the platform needed to comply with WCAG 2.1 standards and provide accessible navigation for users across various devices and abilities.

In addition, WAF faced the challenge of curating an extensive archive of media—from videos and photographs to interactive maps and image galleries—in a way that would be accessible and engaging to diverse audiences, including students, researchers, and the general public. Another significant challenge was implementing the community-generated map feature, which allows users to contribute their own stories and broaden the historical narrative around Winnipeg’s architectural heritage. WAF also sought to create a flexible, non-linear user experience, enabling visitors to freely explore the content rather than follow a prescribed path.

Solution

Pattern Interactive collaborated with WAF to develop a flexible and accessible digital platform tailored to meet DMC’s high standards. The website was built with a robust content management system, allowing WAF to easily update and add content over time. To encourage engagement, an interactive community map was created, allowing users to submit their own architectural stories, supported by a downloadable research guide for high school students.

The design prioritized accessibility and ease of navigation, making it possible for a diverse audience to explore Winnipeg’s architectural history. Multimedia formats, including audio clips, videos, and digitized architectural plans, provide multiple points of entry for visitors. The platform adheres to WCAG 2.1 standards, ensuring inclusive access for all users.

Result

Hidden Winnipeg has successfully introduced Winnipeg’s architectural history to a wider audience, offering an engaging experience that encourages exploration and personal contribution. The platform has attracted educators, students, and architectural enthusiasts, who now have access to a wealth of information that was once limited to WAF’s archives. The community-generated map feature has allowed users to actively participate in the project, enriching the narrative around Winnipeg’s built environment with their own insights.

Through its partnership with Pattern Interactive, WAF has created a dynamic resource that fulfills DMC’s high standards while fostering community engagement and pride in Winnipeg’s architectural legacy. This project has strengthened WAF’s role in public education and historical preservation, demonstrating the value of inclusive, accessible digital resources in advancing awareness of architectural heritage.