Project Description
Project: Wanapum Heritage Center
Location: Mattawa, WA
Surface Area: 49,000sf
Year Completed: 2014
Value: $11,300,000
Architect: Mithun
The new 50,000 square foot Wanapum Heritage Center is a collaborative effort between the Wanapum Tribe of the Columbia River and the Grant County Public Utility District to preserve the story of the Wanapum people. Situated on the Columbia River, near the traditional location of the Wanapum Village, the new Museum and Heritage Center takes its formal cues from the basalt cliffs of the surrounding landscape. A simple concrete form houses the permanent exhibit and repository, while a wood and steel frame provides the backdrop for the more active and community based functions of the facility. The new Museum houses permanent and temporary exhibits, a collections repository, library and gift shop, as well as spaces for administration, active exhibits, cultural activities, community gatherings and academic conferences.