Michele Espeland, CID, principal, executive director, strategy, Cuningham, added, “The goal of the Emerald Queen Casino and Hotel’s design was not only to craft a venue that is both beautiful and functional, but one that takes guests on a storytelling journey with at every turn. The proximity and visibility of these landmarks guided the Cuningham team in bringing the Client’s vision to life and looking at how the natural landscape could enhance the architecture and interior design.

Large expanses of glass windows enhance these views, provide exceptional daylighting and emphasize an exterior and interior connection, noted Ewing. Not only does this layout reclaim the lost space above a restrictive city grid-it results in a building that is highly visible from the interstate and provides panoramic views of the culturally significant Mt. This unique layout required that we obtain air rights from the city and NIGC approval for gaming over public streets.” “Due to site constraints, the Emerald Queen Casino’s gaming floor and amenities are strategically placed four levels above the ground floor and structurally supported by two parking garages. “Integrating the hotel and casino, especially the expanse of the gaming floor, into Tacoma’s urban infrastructure required a one-of-a-kind, innovative design solution,” continued Ewing. This is in line with the trend of tribes pursuing development opportunities in urban settings on unclaimed land trusts, driving higher return on investment. “The tribe first acquired the Emerald Queen Casino as a paddle-boat casino nearly 25 years ago, eventually expanding to two locations, and now is solidifying its footprint with a ground-up development that brings a fresh, exciting experience with a venue that represents deep ties to the tribe’s culture and the local landscape.”Įwing explained that the facility is also one of the first tribal casino developments to be built above ground spanning multiple parcels and city streets. Ewing, AIA, principal/executive director, Cuningham’s Play Studio. “This state-of-the-art, resort-style gaming destination is the culmination of a long-term vision of the Puyallup Tribe of Indians,” said Brett K. of slots and table games, a 2,000-seat event center, five food and beverage venues, two parking garages and a 12-story, 155-room hotel.Ĭuningham led the architecture, interior design and landscape architecture efforts for the brand-new facility, which replaces a previous nearby location that consisted of a converted bingo hall and tents.

Cuningham, a global architectural design firm, has completed the Emerald Queen Casino and Hotel in Tacoma, WA, on behalf of the Puyallup Tribe of Indians.

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