Hooker DeJong Architects Engineers

The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians’ (LRBOI) new Governmental Center, located in Manistee, Michigan, centralizes the branches of government and consolidates departments. Charrettes with the Tribe resulted in multiple plans to achieve balance of tradition, function and convenience for visitors and employees. Initial design efforts focused on developing interiors that harmonize with the overall environment. LRBOI desired an interior design sensitive to Tribal cultural traditions without being stereotypical or maudlin. Thus, the design is notably sensitive to honoring Tribal heritage and culture. The result is unique, timeless, and reflective. The shape and design treatments infuse symbolism of the “Long House” of the Woodland Indians with extensive use of native Michigan materials. Earth, sky, water, fire and rock are evident in ceramics, skylights, waterfall, exposed timber and fire place/fire pit. The Governmental Center’s 54,000 square feet of interiors radiates with serenity and respect for the surrounding environment while welcoming Tribal members to enjoy their governmental center. Natural elements were incorporated to create the ambiance of meditating in the forest. The floors in public spaces are concrete tile symbolic of sand and stone. The reception area is detailed in a style that reflects the artistry of the Tribe with stained wood installed to look like abstract twigs. Murals of birch trees and a river bank welcome visitors at key entry points. Exam rooms include wood plank vinyl tile with soft blue green walls and leaf pattern upholstery on chairs. Elements that more specifically reflect the art, culture and respect for nature include basket weave wall cladding, river rock fire pits, earth tone paint colors, birch wood finishes and handcrafted ceramics. Background colors are inspired by animal hides; brighter accent colors inspired by beadwork. The result is a

The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians’ (LRBOI) new Governmental Center, located in Manistee, Michigan, centralizes the branches of government while consolidating departments. Charrettes with the project’s Task Force resulted in multiple ideas and schematic plans, working to achieve balance of tradition, function and convenience for visitors and employees. Initial efforts focused on operations, development of an updated master plan and developing a building consistent with cultural traditions. LRBOI desired a central location, a campus-like layout and facilities to meet current and future needs. The goals: improved communication, operational efficiencies, and better service accessibility for tribal members. The design includes numerous low energy and sustainable features. Importantly, the design is sensitive to honoring Tribal heritage, consistent with its traditions and culture. The result is unique and timeless while reflecting tribal values and history. Building orientation, material selection and interior décor were inspired by these traditions. Culturally appropriate artistic and design treatments infuse symbolism of the “Long House” of the Woodland Indians and the resting eagle, with extensive use of native Michigan materials. Earth, sky, water, stone and fire are evident in ceramics, skylights, waterfall, fire place/fire pits and materials throughout. The Center’s 54,000 square feet uses the largest space for Little River Health offices, a Medicaid outpatient center of 11,000 square feet with health clinic, pharmacy and dental services. The new Center now centralizes executive, legislative and administrative departments. Design impact/benefits: Low Impact Design – stormwater management, rainwater catchment/reuse, permeable parking. Daylight sensors. Geothermal system with carbon air filtration (to allow “smudging” tradition). Key area skylights. Resource efficient plumbing. Modular glass walls, allowing flexibility and daylight interior spaces. Raised flooring system with underneath air, electric, and communications LRBOI’s goals were met – a beautiful, functional, efficient building sensitive to the Tribe’s cultural and historic heritage without being maudlin.