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.
