The Wachiya boutique, a new cultural and commercial space dedicated to showcasing Cree craftsmanship, has officially opened its doors in Old Montreal. Designed in collaboration with the Cree Native Arts & Crafts Association (CNACA), and brought to life by the team at Clairoux, this project goes beyond traditional retail to offer an immersive experience where contemporary design and Indigenous traditions intersect, creating a hybrid space between boutique and gallery.

A meaningful project: Showcasing Cree art and history

In April 2024, CNACA entrusted Clairoux with the design of a landmark space that would reflect the richness of Cree artistic and cultural heritage. The goal was to go beyond a simple retail environment and instead invite visitors to explore and immerse themselves in Cree traditions. In just three months, Clairoux took on the challenge, developing a narrative-driven architectural concept that resonates with Cree youth, while captivating an international audience.

A design inspired by the connection between the Cree and the world

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. This sensory experience is further enhanced by a projection at the back of the boutique, evoking the Cree landscape in an abstract and mesmerizing way.

A minimalist scenography that highlights Indigenous art

Designed as a hybrid space between a boutique and an art gallery, Wachiya’s layout adopts a minimalist and contemporary approach, allowing Cree art to take center stage.

• 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.
  

An outstanding achievement in commercial interior design

The Wachiya project showcases Clairoux’s expertise in commercial interior design, seamlessly integrating strong symbolic elements, such as the visual thread and authentic materials, to create a unique and immersive customer experience.

• Balancing functionality and aesthetics: The harmonious layout blends sleek aesthetics with practical functionality, ensuring smooth circulation and optimal display of handcrafted artworks.
• Environmental and social impact: The use of natural, locally sourced materials, combined with close collaboration with the Cree community, underscores a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
• User experience focus: The sensory journey designed for visitors fosters a deep connection with Cree culture, enhancing their experience while reinforcing the boutique’s cultural message.

A collective effort with dedicated artisans and partners

This project would not have been possible without the close collaboration between Clairoux and exceptional artisans. Thanks to the expertise of Productions Yves Nicol, the design concept envisioned by Clairoux was brought to life with remarkable precision and craftsmanship.

“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.”

Wachiya: An invitation to discovery

More than just a boutique, Wachiya is a space for connection and exchange, where every visitor is invited to explore the world of Cree craftsmanship and gain a deeper understanding of its history and significance. This project is a powerful demonstration of design’s ability to tell a story, create tangible connections between a culture and its audience, and build a bridge between tradition and modernity.

Wachiya has now opened its doors in Old Montreal—an inspired space, thoughtfully designed to honor and elevate the talent of Cree creators, offering a truly aesthetic, immersive, and meaningful experience.