Pacific University Longhouse

Akana provided architectural and engineering design services for the Pacific University Longhouse, a culturally significant space designed to serve as a home for Indigenous students and a center for community engagement. Longhouses have deep historical and cultural meaning for many Native communities, representing not only shelter but also a place for gathering, storytelling, and ceremony. This project reflects Pacific University’s commitment to reconciliation and cultural inclusion, acknowledging its historical ties to the Forest Grove Indian Training School and creating a space that honors Indigenous traditions.

Akana supported visioning sessions, community engagement, programming, and conceptual design to ensure the Longhouse meets the needs of students and the broader community. The design incorporates features identified by the Indigenous Student Alliance, including indoor and outdoor kitchens, a flat area for dance and large gatherings, and space for cultural learning. Plans also include a garden with Indigenous plants and removable floor panels to allow traditional seating practices. Art will adorn the walls, and the space will be open for classes, cultural events, and community activities, fostering connection and cultural exchange.