With only one month to go until the 2018 Winter Olympics officially kick off on February 9 in PyeongChang, South Korea, athletic teams from around the world prepare to represent their nations in front of an international audience. Canada isn't limiting itself to sporting competitions alone to promote all things maple leaf but just announced plans for 'Canada Olympic House,' a gathering place for the team's fans, coaches, athletes and their families & friends.

Designed by Montreal-based Sid Lee Architecture in collaboration with the Canadian Olympic Committee, the 12,000-square-foot house will be located near Gangneung Olympic Park which is going to host (surprise!) the hockey competitions.

Guests can watch Team Canada compete via the CBC/Radio-Canada broadcast, kick back with some Canadian drinks and food (poutine anyone?), purchase merchandise at the retail store, and celebrate athletes and all things Team Canada at a variety of events.

From the Canadian Olympic Committee: "In partnership with the COC, renowned creative agency of record, Sid Lee, the team at Sid Lee Architecture designed the house with a true ‘Canadiana’ look and feel, creating a patriotic hub for all Canadians and Team Canada fans in South Korea to enjoy the Games together. Utilizing the strengths and characteristics of an existing facility, the house will feature uniquely Canadian elements including a bleacher in the shape of a maple leaf for fans to sit and enjoy programming, banners hanging from the rafters inspired by the ones found in hockey arenas across the country, layers of mountain ranges depicted, bringing the great Canadian landscape indoors and a patio inspired by a Canadian backyard during the winter."

"Together, the COC and Sid Lee partnership not only includes the design of Canada Olympic House, but also the upcoming design of the COC’s new office space as well as a new branded platform based on Canadian Olympic values. Teased elements have already appeared on Team Canada’s social media channels. On January 23, 2018, the COC will launch its brand campaign for PyeongChang 2018."

"Creating a comfortable environment at the Games for the athletes and their guests is a priority for Team Canada’s partners. For example, the house will be furnished with more than 500 pieces of product provided by the Canadian Tire Corporation to create a celebration lounge for comfortable viewing areas to watch the live broadcast of the Olympic Winter Games as well as other special events planned at the house."

Canada Olympic House will hold a ceremonial opening on February 7 in PyeongChang and is officially going to open to the public on February 10.