AK-CHIN INDIAN COMMUNITY FEAST HOUSE
The purpose of the new community Feasthouse was to facilitate the delivery of a new food preparation facility on an existing public use lot – The new Feasthouse facility will provide the community with greater opportunities for storage, food preparation in a code compliant facility and be a space for community events that members can use and for nearby church activities. It will be designed to reflect community values of the traditional shade structure and be a facility for teaching the Himdag culture. The shade canopy is designed to harvest rainwater and to channel the runoff to an open basin that embodies the ‘journey of rain’ concept.
This project consists of construction of a 20’-8” x 58’-8” (1,212 SF) concrete masonry block (CMU) building that will allow for food preparation, storage use, and men’s and women’s toilet facilities. In addition, a new steel canopy metal roof deck along with a new concrete floor slab for accessibility and durable all-weather flooring. Corresponding site improvements include AB path dust control, limited grading & drainage improvements to reduce water ponding near the building and utility work to bring water, sewer, and power to the new building – including a grease interceptor.
Client: Ak-Chin Indian Community
When the Ak Chin Indian Community wanted to replace their existing Feasthouse, it was key that the new facility continue to be a leading gathering space for the community that connects to the area functions and surrounding trails. Seen as the community landmark of the Ak Chin cultural campus, the New Feasthouse & Community Vato sits directly next to Saint Francis of Assisi Church Mission and the Him-dak Eco-Museum - a bedrock of cultural history and knowledge; a special site which allows this facility to be a gateway to the community. The design team worked closely with the Ak Chin Indian Community to honor context and local historians and develop a strong social center that offers flexible spaces that can be used by several different community groups, including youth and elders throughout the year.
The new Feasthouse & Communit Vato strengthens its role in the community. It is a place for celebrations, ceremonial procession and feasting. The community Feasthouse facilitates the delivery of a new food preparation facility on an existing public use lot. The new facility offers the community greater opportunities for storage and food preparation in a code compliant facility and be a flexible space for community events. It is designed to reflect community values of the traditional shade structure, the Vato and be an anchor for the Himdag culture. The shade canopy is designed to harvest rainwater and to channel the runoff to an open basin that embodies the ‘journey of rain’.