The Shinnecock Indian Nation, an indigenous tribe in Southampton, New York, commissioned DF&A to design a resort and conference centre on 20 acres of sovereign land along Peconic Bay. The 13-building complex, developed in collaboration with the tribe, harmonises with the land's natural beauty while preserving its untouched state.
Honouring the tribe's deep connection to the area—"Shinnecock" means "people of the stony shore"— DF&A focused on minimising environmental impact while maximising usability. The layout clusters buildings, including a convention hall, wellness centre, longhouse, and residences, to maintain open spaces and enhance the landscape.
The Resort at Westwoods aims to foster cultural pride and economic stability for the Shinnecock Nation, embodying their renowned hospitality and modernizing the spirit of the Shinnecock Powwow. The Recreation Complex features a striking vertical wooden façade, reminiscent of a whale breaching the water, symbolizing the tribe's whaling traditions. Inside, it boasts a Class A sports facility, while the exterior's sloped design offers built-in stadium seating, creating a multifunctional event space that utilizes the land efficiently.
