The new outdoor pavilion at Mohawk College in Hamilton, Ontario is the result of a collaborative design process between Brook McIlroy Architects; Mohawk College; Aboriginal students of the College; and Elders and members of the Six Nations First Nation and Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation Communities.

The HOOP Dance honours Indigenous culture, traditions and world views. It welcomes people of all backgrounds, beliefs and ages into an inclusive circle – a place for teaching, music, story-telling, ceremony, relaxation and contemplation.

The HOOP Dance is inspired by Indigenous concepts of inclusiveness, time as measured by the sun and moon, the Medicine Wheel and the creation story. Its form is comprised of two radiating and intersecting circles joined by a raised seating platform, referencing traditional wood fabrication methods and the spatial organization of the Longhouse. Collectively the HOOP Dance is comprised of 4 elements: an open air pavilion, a fire circle, a water garden and traditional garden.