Yakima Indian Nation Credit Enterprise Building, Toppenish, Washington, 1989-1991:
This project involved the transformation of the Credit Enterprise Offices from an existing area of about 500 square feet to a new building with 8700 square feet. Sam Combs researched indigenous Yakima Indian Nation structures of the tribe through investigation of the tribal museum and library and books on Native American structures. He found that the structural pattern of the Wulchi or pit house lent itself to the desired floor plan. This allowed a flexibility in the floor plan that would have not been available in a typical box. The building has a tall atrium area to symbolize the center of the Wulchi with radiating wings that have clerestory windows that bring light into the corridors and middle office through the use of relites. The grounds are simply landscaped with a perimeter mounding and indigenous trees and plantings to portray the circular perimeter of the Wulchi. This will is an exciting new home on the high desert for the Yakima Indian Nation Credit Enterprise that is a unique reminder of the past while looking toward the future of the expanding and profitable Nation.
Yakima Indian Nation Credit Enterprise Building, Toppenish, Washington, 1989-1991: