The Angel of the Winds Casino in Arlington, Washington, located in the Seattle metro area, recently undertook the largest expansion in its history.

Representing a $64 million investment by the state’s Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians, the expansion—on the drawing board since 2016—will add 300,000 square feet to the property, including a parking garage for up to 575 vehicles, space for up to 300 new slot machines and 16 gaming tables, a 200-seat buffet and an upscale steakhouse called Whiskey Prime.

To maximize revenues, a new 750-capacity, 8,500-square-foot multi-purpose entertainment facility will house concerts, performances, conferences and private events. The expansion also will add a 12-lane, 8,500-square-foot bowling alley.

The project, which broke ground in January, is scheduled to be complete next summer and create new jobs at least 150 people, tribal officials said. It’s the second major expansion at Angel of the Winds, which opened in October 2004 and commissioned a $27 million addition including a luxury hotel 10 years later.

Brett Ewing, principal architect with the Cuningham Group, which designed the expansion, said the Angel of the Winds’ slogan—“The World’s Friendliest Casino”—is “very true.”

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Ewing noted, “The service here is the reason you’re successful. It’s not necessarily bricks and mortar. It’s the staff that you have, and it starts from the top and works its way down.”

Not to downplay the bricks and mortar, and a design that blends the natural with the nouveau. According to the architect, the look of the addition takes its cues from organic forms in the Washington landscape and uses modern details for balance. The main casino design creates a dynamic guest experience with sweeping pathways and ceiling elements. The food venues complement the casino and

provide a diverse offering of spaces. The entertainment block channels a “Rock, Roll & Bowl” atmosphere with dramatic lighting and bold colors.

As construction continues at the site, crews labor under a banner that promises “A Change is in the Winds.”

“Angel of the Winds is proud to be the entertainment destination for so many here in the Pacific Northwest and for travelers from around the world,” said

General Manager Travis O’Neil. “This expansion will allow us to add a new level of excitement for our customers through unique amenities, while still maintaining our warm and welcoming atmosphere.”

OWNER: Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians
ARCHITECT: Cuningham Group
CONTRACTOR: Swinerton Builders
SITE WORK: SCI Infrastructure
INVESTMENT: $60 million