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Gambling with Silence: Architectural Photography of a New Casino During the Pandemic Pause

I recently had a unique privilege and opportunity to photograph a grand casino project whose construction was completed during the pandemic. The Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington, opened in June, 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic.

The Puyallup Tribe of Indians proudly unveiled their award-winning Vegas-style Emerald Queen Casino, a stunning creation by Cuningham Group Architects (Minneapolis & Las Vegas) and the joint-venture construction team of Absher Construction and Kitchell Contractors (AbsherKitchell). The project was a rather massive undertaking with planning and infrastructure work beginning some 15 years prior but actual construction beginning around October of 2017.

A beautiful and energetic West Elevation ‘hero’ dusk image of the Emerald Queen Casino

Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Tacoma, Washington, the Emerald Queen Casino stands as a beacon of innovation and cultural pride. Owned and operated by the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, this 820,000-square-foot, $370 million marvel seamlessly blends the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas with the rich heritage and triditions of the tribe.

A hero image of the atrium lobby entrance which leads up to the main gaming floor

Once in a Lifetime! There is nothing quite like seeing a casino project without the throng of patrons. There is a monumentality about seeing a space in this moment. Capturing the casino's grand scale, its towering ceilings, sweeping escalators, and opulent chandeliers, all worked to emphasize awe-inspiring architecture even without the human element.

Flowing pathways move you through the main casino floor to the restaurants and other venues. Capturing how the space functions and flows is paramount to telling the architect's story and approach to user experience.

Wayfinding and identification elements throughout the casino floor and amenities provided by Hunt Design These beautiful elements are essential for making large buildings user-friendly and accessible for everyone. They enable smooth navigation, informed decision-making, and a more positive experience for all.

“As a design firm, we appreciate Doug's skill in capturing the essence of the project, and allowing the signage elements to be featured in context with the architectural environment. His keen eye has beautifully incorporated our work in the visually rich environment of the casino” ~ John Temple, Principal, Hunt Design

Event Center entrance bathed in soft light, featuring a mural of Salish tribal ancestors images

Step off the escalator and begin to explore in any direction! Glass Artwork by Artist Anthony Duenes

Flavors of the Northwest await inside the Puyalapabs Cafe. Café lanterns feature traditional basket-weave patterns, while the coffee bar's paddle wheel design pays homage to The Emerald Queen's origins as a paddle-boat casino.

Beautiful architectural screening and Puyallup artwork work beautifully to provide both light and air for the parking garage.

PCS Structural Solutions played a crucial role in the successful construction of the Emerald Queen Casino's parking structures. Their expertise in structural engineering and innovative design solutions contributed to the functionality, safety, and aesthetic appeal of these important facilities.

This atrium view shows off the huge chandelier that greets visitors as they arrive through the lower secure entry. The Puyallup Tribe infused a wealth of design elements throughout the casino celebrating their rich heritage and connection to the land.

“Doug’s photos captured the anticipatory excitement of the Emerald Queen Casino. They give the viewer the feeling of being the first guest entering the space—being able to take in all of the Casino’s sights and features before anyone else. Even post pandemic restrictions, the photos convey a true VIP experience” ~ Erin Mayer, Director of Marketing, Absher Construction Company

A one of a kind chandelier in the center of the gaming area greets visitors.

Aubergine walls and reflective champagne columns recall the dappled light of forests and open spaces, while hanging crystals and lighting mimic the movement of clouds. Cedar trunks, strips, and a moss palette create intimate high-limit areas.

A Haunting Beauty with a Hint of Mystery: Photographing this casino was more about capturing the soul of an architectural giant. In the absence of the usual human drama, the focus shifts to the interplay of light and shadow, the subtle curves of the flowing spaces, the geometric precision of a chandelier's design. It's a chance to appreciate the artistry poured into these monuments to entertainment, often obscured by the glitz and clamor of their normal operation.

This stunning view moves the viewer from the lobby to the gaming floor above with floor to ceiling artwork that spans the entire space.

“In 2021, our project team was recognized for their outstanding interior work on the Emerald Queen Casino. Many pieces came together to make this possible, including Doug’s photography. His photos beautifully showcased the intricacies of the interior and made it clear the work was worthy of recognition. To some, construction is a form of art, and Doug is able to capture that in his images” ~ Cooper Howard, Marketing Coordinator, Western Partitions Inc.

For me, this was more than just an architectural project…it was a moment in our collective history. Where even the most vibrant of spaces fell silent for a time. A reminder of the enduring power of architecture, a silent language that speaks of ambition, hopes, and dreams. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the true grandeur, haunting beauty, and soul-stirring silence of this architectural giant in a state of pandemic slumber. All captured with a sense of flair that truly honors their award-winning designs.

The Puyallup Tribe's native language is incorporated in signage and other elements, showcasing their linguistic heritage. Porte Cochere / Valet artwork by Artist Anthony Duenes

Traditional and contemporary Coast Salish art work designed by Tribal members is featured throughout. I really loved capturing this flowing piece by Artist Anthony Duenes

Cedar trunks, strips, and a moss palette create intimate high-limit areas.

Woven throughout the casino's design are traditional and contemporary Coast Salish elements crafted by Puyallup tribal members, blending past and present in a stunning artistic tapestry.

“Capturing the flowing layout, tribal artwork, and unique forms and surfaces all worked together to be an awe-inspiring experience” ~ Doug Walker, M.Photog.

The original Summit Sports Bar featured windows with views to Mt Rainier.

Western Partitions Inc. performed extensive interior and exterior walls and ceilings work. They specialize in envelope work and on this build used the DensElement Barrier System which was instrumental in saving time and steps in the construction process…especially beneficial in the rainy Pacific Northwest.

Interior elements subtly weave in and draw influence from the textures, shapes, and colors of the mountains, rivers, and forests that define Puyallup tribal land.” ~ Cuningham Group

Frog murals which grace each side of the Paddle Wheel Coffee and Bakery located inside the new Emerald Queen Casino. Artist Shawn Peterson

The exterior skin prominently features a black and white basket weave pattern, a traditional Puyallup motif symbolizing community and strength. Red accents and organic textures add life and draw visitors upwards.

Casino Bar with views out to the North

Transitional illuminated art rises from the Atrium to the Gaming floor above meets patrons as the make their way up to the gaming floor.

Aerial drone view across I-5 of the Emerald Queen Casino looking to the Southwest.

A unique approach has this build sitting amidst the bustling streets of Tacoma, Washington. The Emerald Queen Casino stands as a beacon of innovation and cultural pride. By strategically placing the gaming floor and other amenities four levels above the ground, supported by two massive parking garages below, the casino reclaims lost space and creates a visually striking landmark. This audacious move not only overcomes the limitations of the grid but also grants visitors stunning panoramic views. From the bustling streets of downtown Tacoma to the snow-capped peak of Mount Rainier and the serene expanse of Puget Sound, the Emerald Queen Casino offers a perspective unlike any other.

In essence, the new Emerald Queen Casino is not just a place for gaming; it's a living tribute to the Puyallup Tribe's history, culture, and values, woven into every design element.

FORM + FUNCTION - Bonney Lake High School Performing Arts Center

FORM + FUNCTION - Bonney Lake High School Performing Arts Center

Performing Arts Centers….That place where people come together under one roof to see the unfolding talents of our youth. Congrats to The Berschauer Group and Erickson McGovern Architects on completion of the new Bonney Lake High School Performing Arts Center.

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Skokomish Tribal Community Center - 7 Directions Architects

1 great project in 2 great days for 7 Directions Architects!

Last Fall I had the pleasure of fielding a call about photographing the new Skokomish Tribal Community Center for Daniel J. Glenn, AIA, AICAE.  Daniel is the Principal Architect of 7 Directions Architects/Planners, a Native American-owned firm based in Seattle, Washington, specializing in culturally and environmentally responsive architecture and planning.

He was close to officially turning over the keys to the community center to the owners, the Skokomish Indian Tribe, and needed architectural photography for a pair of upcoming book projects: Our Voices: Indigeneity and Architecture and The Handbook of Contemporary Indigenous Architecture.  He is a contributing author to both and co-editor of the Handbook. Image deadlines were looming so we needed to strike right away!

Architectural photographer's need to learn as much as possible about the program of each building to be successful. And so we chatted at length about his project, what was unique, best angles, key features of the design, and why!  As we talked I learned there is a rich and deep process to his design.

As shared in his book Our Voices: Indigeneity and Architecture, "With each Tribe, we seek to design for the Seven Generations: three generations of the ancestors, the present generation, and three generations into the future. Through the Elders, both those who are still with us and those who have passed, we seek to learn about the traditions, the history and the culture of the people and the place. We analyze their architectural and design traditions."

The East elevation of the new Skokomish Tribal Community Center located in Skokomish, Washington.

Culturally-Responsive Design for Seven Generations. With each Tribe, we seek to design for the Seven Generations: three generations of the ancestors, the present generation, and three generations into the future.
— Daniel J. Glenn, AIA, AICAE Principal Architect / 7 Directions Architects/Planners

During the first of two visits the primary focus was on exteriors elevations. How it plays with the environment. So I headed out at 3:30am the next day to ensure I ready to shoot at dawn's first light. Fortunately the deteriorating weather held off and I came back with 5 beautiful images throughout daybreak.

Following the post production artwork I shared the images and met his deadline. The success of any project relies on customer satisfaction. HIs reply?

Hello Doug

These are wonderful!

It will be hard to choose!
— Daniel J. Glenn 7 Directions Architects/ Planners

I am happy to report these images have secured a prominent place in both books and a also a place of honor amongst his ongoing marketing and publishing efforts.

Nestled against a forested backdrop, this space features an extensive array of Solar cells

The structure reflects enormous linear cedar plank houses that once lined the coasts of Puget Sound and celebrates the building tradition of the Skokomish people.Nestled against a forested backdrop, this space features an extensive array of Solar cells, also called photovoltaic (PV) cells, bringing energy from the sun, its air to air heat exchangers drawing energy from the air, and its structural insulated panels providing a super insulated building envelope, and is on track to be the first Net Zero project on tribal land in the United States.

The Ceremonial East entry to the gathering space with welcome figure details.

Earlier this year Daniel had me back for a second day to photograph the the interiors spaces. I arrived to a torrential downpour, many inches per hour, and so was faced with that task of offloading gear beneath the eaves escaping the deluge by mere inches. 😬 With a solid plan in hand I worked each space determining best perspectives and coaxing the natural light working through the space. I often need to augment forms and surfaces with supplemental lighting to kick off shape and texture but found less intrusion to best showcase the peace, reverence and solitude of this great space. I was met with a wondrous scent of cedar as I worked throughout the day. Ahh.

The best laid plans...the second day not quite as idyllic as the first! Such is architectural photography in the Pacific Northwest!

These stunning interior spaces were designed by Kimberly Deriana, Architectural Designer at 7 Directions Architects/Planners. Her design elements married traditional Coast Salish artwork with solid functionality throughout, matching the beauty and grace of the exterior structure in its natural settings!

This image of The Skokomish Tribal Community Center's gathering space was featured in AZURE Magazine’s piece titled UNCEDED IS CANADA’S EXPLORATION OF INDIGENOUS ARCHITECTURE.  This is a glorious tall space, with cedar wrapped clerestory windows and large circular lamps giving a sense of daylight.

With each Tribe, we seek to design for the Seven Generations: three generations of the ancestors, the present generation, and three generations into the future. Through the Elders, both those who are still with us and those who have passed, we seek to learn about the traditions, the history and the culture of the people and the place.
— Daniel J. Glenn, AIA, AICAE Principal Architect / 7 Directions Architects/Planners

Gathering space features artwork using traditional Skokomish basket patterns,

The materials and artwork used throughout the Tribal Community Center reflect an environmentally responsive architecture and planning. Working in concert with other built-community members 'Malsam Tsang Structural Engineering', 'SCJ Alliance', 'Travis, Fitzmaurice & Associates', 'Ecotope', 'Pease Construction', 'Capital Heating and Cooling', and 'Solar Washington' the results stand testament to solid partnering.

Large carved wood doors feature Skokomish artwork created by Skokomish artists John Edward Smith and Derek Grover. These doors separate the gathering space from the main entry space.

Hearty congratulations to Daniel Glenn who is part of a team of indigenous architects presenting at the 2018 Venice Biennale. Unceded: Voices of the Land is Canada’s official entry showcasing a team of 18 all indigenous architects. The exhibit explores and seeks to understand what contemporary architecture is in THIS age. This exhibit celebrates the voices of these indigenous architects through their design and architecture.

These beautiful carved doors feature traditional Coast Salish artwork.  A view through to the Gathering Space provides a sense of depth and scale. 

A tournament size gymnasium serves to bring regional tournaments and communities together during holidays, funerals, and large cultural celebrations.

North-side elevation l-r. East entry, gathering space, Elder's area, main entry and lobby and lastly the gymnasium.

Beautiful glass and cedar doors with Skokomish artwork invite visitors into the Elders Area. Sporting a full kitchen deep space with doors to Gathering Space to the right. 

A gorgeous dawn image of the East entrance featuring house welcoming figures and house posts and Skokomish artwork welcoming figures .

As an architectural photographer I am often working large municipal projects in bustling cities with complex traffic, access, security and logistic issues. It was such a joy to work a space such as this. Having grown up in South Puget Sound I've been raised on water and trees. The serenity of this peaceful setting recharged my spirit. It was a truly memorable site to work. I remain honored to have been brought on as a creative partner to showcase Daniel's design. Thank you Daniel!