LONGHOUSE COMMUNITY CENTER
The Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma built a mixed-use development on an approximately 80-acre site in Miami that serves tribal members, the local community and visitors. New Fire Native was tasked with developing the initial three projects, which include the Longhouse Community Center, Woodland Academy Learning Center and the required site improvements and infrastructure upgrades to support the development.
Serving tribal members, the 5,162 SF Longhouse Community Center is utilized for wakes and funerals, stomp dances and other tribal meetings and activities. A welcoming foyer leads in to a large gathering hall with seating for approximately 150. The facility also includes a large, commercial-style kitchen, quiet room and outdoor gathering area along with restrooms and other building support spaces. The Peoria Tribe considers nature vital to everyday life, and as such, the design incorporates natural elements in the interior finishes. The exterior features accents of the Tribe’s signature red.
A parking lot for 150 cars is also provided. Plus, a new park is located behind the Community Center to provide not only a buffer to the houses located along the property line, but also a private, secluded area for the Longhouse.