Artificial Log Wraps for Cherokee Casino Resort
The recently completed Porte Cochere at Cherokee West Siloam Casino Resort creates a new and much larger architectural entry space into the hotel. The structure was designed to complement the main casino Porte Cochere entry.
Fabricating the Cherokee Casino Porte Cochere Entry
Lightweight artificial logs, composed of fiberglass (FRP), clad the structural steel columns and beams. The logs were cast in molds and then prepped prior to theme painting. The result is a simulated bark-stripped cedar log. These logs were fabricated in COST’s 144,000 sq. ft. fabrication plant in 12” and 24” diameters and in varying lengths. Each log was halved for easy installation by staffed construction teams. Once the logs were welded to the columns and beams, seams were artistically blended and theme painted to match the remaining sections of each log.
“The logs are theme painted with various colors and aging mixes to look very natural”, states John Hawkinson, Preconstruction Manager at COST. John adds, “Unlike natural logs that require restaining almost yearly, the artificial log cladding lasts years before any painting is required”. The reduced maintenance, especially at access points, is critical when operating a 24/7 facility like a casino resort.
This was COST’s third West Siloam project for the Cherokee Nation. Earlier projects included artificial log wraps for the main casino entry, faux log framing, and trim work at each dormer. A significant naturalistic entry waterfall feature, reaching nearly 30’ in height with a main pond and white-water stream, follows the approach to the casino entry. The rockwork was carved and colored to match natural rock found in eastern Oklahoma/western Arkansas.
COST was responsible for shop drawings, structural engineering of each log feature, log fabrication, and installation. The project team included Cherokee Nation Businesses, architect Integrated Construction + Design, Builders Unlimited General Construction, and COST Inc.