MONTREAL — The Wachiya boutique, a cultural and commercial space dedicated to showcasing Cree craftsmanship located in Old Montreal, offers an immersive experience where contemporary design and Indigenous traditions intersect.

The interior design team of Clairoux collaborated with the Cree Native Arts & Crafts Association to create a hybrid space between boutique and gallery where contemporary design and Indigenous traditions intersect.

The interior design concept is based on a fundamental idea: "We are connected to everything around us — our environment, others, and every action we take has an impact on another.” That philosophy guided the creation of a visual thread, a central design element that runs through the space, linking visitors to Cree history and traditions. From the exterior, this symbolic thread draws visitors into an immersive journey, leading them through different artistic and cultural expressions, ultimately connecting them to the essence of Cree identity: the forest.

Wachiya’s layout adopts a minimalist and contemporary approach, allowing Cree art to take center stage. It includes:

• A subtle and evocative color palette: Green, Wachiya’s signature color, punctuates the space, visually reinforcing the central design thread and anchoring the boutique’s identity.
• Raw and authentic materials: Tree trunks sourced from Cree forests have been integrated into the space, serving as a natural connection to the origins of the displayed artworks. Wooden display shelves retain their raw texture and natural scent, deepening the sensory immersion.
• Play of reflections and perspectives: Strategically placed mirrors encourage self-reflection — visitors don’t just observe Cree culture, they become part of it.

“At Clairoux, we believe that design is not just about shaping spaces; it is about amplifying their purpose and meaning," explains Frédric Clairoux, Principal Designer and Founder of Clairoux. "This project was particularly close to our hearts because it carries a profound message — cultural sharing and the transmission of heritage. Working alongside CNACA and their artisans has been an enriching experience that goes beyond the traditional scope of interior design.”