Quinault Cultural Center

Akana provided planning and architectural/engineering services for a feasibility study and conceptual design of a new Tribal Museum and Cultural Center for the Quinault Indian Nation. Located in Taholah, Washington, the project will relocate the existing museum from the tsunami inundation zone, ensuring the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations. The new facility will also house a tribal research library and programs dedicated to language and cultural education.

Akana’s scope included site analysis, conceptual site and building design, and a market analysis of regional tourism to estimate potential visitation and revenue. Community engagement was central to the process, with youth, elders, museum staff, and tribal councilors actively participating in site selection, master planning, and design development. Their input shaped a vision that honors Quinault traditions while meeting modern needs.

The preferred master plan incorporates culturally significant motifs throughout the site and building design. The building references the traditional Quinault longhouse form, while the site design symbolizes its orientation along a riverbank. Sustainable strategies and cultural symbolism are integrated to create a space that reflects identity and resilience. In Phase II, Akana is serving as the prime consultant, providing full design and construction documents to bring this vision to life.