Construction is underway on the Accessible Arts Learning Campus in Calgary, marking the development of the world’s first accessible arts learning campus. The National accessArts Centre (NaAC) officially broke ground on the project in June.

The campus will feature two facilities situated side-by-side: the Joseph Chung Centre for Creativity and the Trico Communities Accessible Arts Centre

Named in honour of Joseph Chung, the late son of philanthropist doctors Peter and Stephanie Chung, the two storey mass timber facility will serve as a performing arts training and creation centre for artists living with disabilities. The 16,279 square-foot building will provide an inclusive and welcoming environment where artists can learn, create, perform, and share their work.

Designed by Dialog, the project is targeting Zero Carbon Building certification. Sustainability and accessibility are central to the design, with features including 100 per cent barrier-free circulation, cantilevered canopy, and a rooftop solar array. Clark Builders is the general contractor.

The Trico Communities Accessible Arts Centre, designed by Iwanski Architecture, will see the overhaul of Scouts Hall into Canada’s largest dedicated visual arts learning facility for artists living with disabilities. It will be home to NaAC’s world-renowned visual arts/digital media programs, with accessible studio spaces, communal spaces for artists, as well as administrative offices.

Accessible indoor and outdoor community spaces are thoughtfully integrated throughout the two facilities, creating a cohesive campus that invites participants and community members alike to feel welcome and fully immersed in a creative, inclusive environment.

Construction on the Chung Centre is expected to be completed by winter 2027. The Trico Communities facility is scheduled for completion in summer 2027.