For the Downstream Casino Resort, the JCJ Architecture/Manhattan Construction Design Build team was challenged to create a new, market responsive, regional destination that would rival the best in the nation and be fully operational in less than one year. The design team undertook site feasibility, master planning and full design services for gaming, hotel, food & beverage and associated amentities. Just 10 months and 26 days later, the Downstream Casino Resort opened to great acclaim.

As part of the first phase of development, JCJ designed the original casino to include 2,000 machines, 44 tables games, including poker, and a 12-story, 222-room hotel with indoor pool, fitness room and an expansive entertainment terrace with a 5,100-seat outdoor concert venue. JCJ integrated indigenous architectural styles with tribal iconography to create a sophisticated, cultural expression for the Quapaw Tribe. Careful research of tribal artifacts revealed a recurring 'interlaced spiral' emblem which became inspiration for several key design elements, including the central features at the main casino bar and the entrance.

Expansions were subsequently undertaken that included a multi-use entertainment/conference facility with regular live theatre and concert bookings; a 7-story, 152-room hotel, including 12 single-room and 4 dual-room luxury suites; full spa, indoor pool and expanded dining choices; an on-site day care center for employees; and an 8,000 square foot convenience store/gas station and RV park on the Missouri side of the property.

Recognition:
2009 Associated Builders and Contractors Excellence in Construction Award

The project has been featured in Modern Steel and Metal Mag magazines.