Back to the Sea
Project : Quinault Casino Renovation and Expansion Location : Ocean Shores , Washington Owner : Quinault Indian Nation Designer : Thalden Boyd Emery Cost : $ 27 million
Quinault Beach Resort & Casino in Ocean Shores , Washington , embraces a burgeoning gaming-vacation market . The “ play ” has been beefed up to entice the “ stay ” in a new invigorated environment , accented by tribal cultural expression .
Quinault tapped Thalden Boyd Emery to lead the project , completed in June 2018 . Jim Morrison , the director of code for TBE , says the expansion and renovation covers 29,000 square feet and features the addition of a buffet and kitchen space , new gaming space , a feature bar , new carpeting throughout the entire gaming floor and conversion of the existing gift shop into a gaming area .
Nick Schoenfeldt , vice president and principal at TBE , believes the project enhances the entire functionality of the establishment .
“ We often see tribal properties go through phased growth , and we speculate that Quinault Beach Resort is positioning itself to draw a larger market share as they prepare for continued growth ,” Schoenfeldt says . “ With this recent renovation and expansion , the Quinault Nation has been able to bring back several machines they previously leased out to other tribes . Now these machines will be able to completely benefit the Quinault Nation . This project provides a noticeable increase in guest options , both in terms of gaming and dining .”
The previous design had few cultural influences . With this expansion , Schoenfeldt says that Quinault symbolism , from new carpeting to welcoming totems , is prevalent throughout the property .
The center bar at Quinault Beach incorporates light shows and entertainment along with gambling
David Nejelski , creative director and principal at TBE , says tribal cultural expression was paramount in the setup .
“ Culture and art are two themes that are interwoven throughout the new casino expansion , expressed through inspired designs and finishes as well as unique art pieces ,” he says .
“ A new custom carpet design creates a bold expression of Quinault identity throughout the casino by using large-scale patterns directly inspired by an unmistakable character found in the traditional artwork .”
Two large , hand-hewn “ welcome figures ” were custom crafted and positioned near the entry to the buffet , greeting guests and providing a dramatic example of traditional wood-carving skill .
“ The ocean-going heritage of the Quinault is celebrated in the design of the new Nawitin Buffet ,” he adds . “ The rhythm of ocean waves is rendered in a variety of finishes throughout the space , and acts as the backdrop to a large coastal canoe , hand-carved and painted in traditional style . This centerpiece of traditional life acts as the centerpiece of the space . Ornately carved and painted paddles are also on display , further enhancing the cultural connection to the sea .”
The center of the casino floor has a dramatic 360-degree entertainment bar-in-the-round infusing the gaming floor with excitement that incorporates light shows , live music and other entertainment .
22 TRIBAL GOVERNMENT GAMING 2019