Our design team completed a multi-phased master plan for the Muscogee (Creek) Nation to help the tribe better serve its citizens, draw in visitors and showcase its unique heritage and traditions. To accommodate growth of multiple departments and consolidate their operations within the Capitol Complex, our team worked with the Muscogee (Creek) Nation to create a holistic, integrated campus to house the Nation’s culture, heritage, history, government, judicial, Lighthorse administration and other programs and services as well as address the needs of tribal citizens and the building’s occupants.

The master plan is the result of a thorough review of all tribal-owned properties in and around Okmulgee, as well as extensive meetings and programming workshops with tribal leaders, other stakeholders and the community. Site and facility surveys were also conducted to determine the best use of each of the individual properties. This extensive up-front work laid the foundation to develop a well thought-out tribal master plan that helps the tribe achieve its goals while also providing flexibility to accommodate future changes.

As the capitol for Muscogee (Creek) Nation, the Capitol Complex is the headquarters of the Nation’s government and services. The overarching goal is to celebrate and reflect the culture and values of the Nation by telling the story of the past, present and future through symbolism, geometries and nature.

From planting to placemaking, from structure to storytelling, the site offers a refreshing experience for community members to connect with each other and celebrate the natural environment that is quintessential to the identity of the tribe. The site improvements and buildings form the framework of the campus aesthetic, tying the campus together while serving tribal citizens and encouraging pedestrians to walk through and learn about the Muscogee (Creek) Nation’s history, culture, way of life and symbolism.

Meeting the Nation’s needs efficiently and economically, the Tribal Complex Master Plan maximizes the use of the site, creates a more holistic campus, and delivers four new buildings which will reflect aspects of Muscogee history, culture and symbolism.