May 4, 2026

WASHINGTON: Stucco/EIFS

Photo by PV Burns [enlarge]

The exterior system was customized to replicate the appearance of handcrafted wood beams and wood siding.

Snoqualmie Casino

Location: 37500 S.E. North Bend Way, Snoqualmie

Contractor: Phampena

Architect: Bergman Walls & Associates

Labor partners: Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association; Western States Carpenters

An expansion to Snoqualmie Casino Resort includes a new 210-room hotel, expanded gaming floor, full-service spa, and additional restaurant and private event spaces. The project was designed to blend the natural character of the Pacific Northwest with a contemporary architectural expression that honors the heritage of the Snoqualmie Tribe. Phampena performed the exterior Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) scope, delivering a highly detailed façade that emulates natural wood construction while providing long-term durability in a challenging climate.

This project incorporated an innovative use of EIFS to replicate the appearance of handcrafted wood beams and wood siding without relying on traditional wood materials, which can deteriorate in the Pacific Northwest’s harsh weather conditions. The EIFS system was customized to achieve realistic wood grain finish and incorporated two distinct siding expressions that resemble exposed beams and shiplap-style cladding.

In collaboration with Tremco’s Fedderlite team, the project introduced a hybrid panelized EIFS system that was pre-meshed and base-coated with an integrated shiplap profile. This helped eliminate exposed sealant joints and created a more seamless, continuous exterior surface. This solution especially at the porte-cochère was in the judges opinions very well done indeed.

Achieving an authentic wood appearance with EIFS, maintaining visual continuity without panel gaps was a challenge as was executing the work under adverse winter conditions. As skilled labor capable of producing detailed wood grain textures was limited, the team relied on prefabrication and close coordination with material manufacturers to balance quality and schedule. Sealant joints were concealed using specialized Tremco Willseal products placed behind panels. This preserved the appearance of uninterrupted wood grain. High winds and cold temperatures delayed the project start, but strategic sequencing, cold-weather EIFS applications, and panelized installation methods allowed work to continue through the winter months without compromising quality.

Through innovation, collaboration, and craftsmanship, the project team delivered an exterior that redefines the aesthetic potential of EIFS and establishes a new benchmark for performance and appearance in large-scale resort construction.

Other Stories:

• WASHINGTON: Interior over $1 million
  
• WASHINGTON: Renovation
  
• WASHINGTON: Light-Gauge Steel Framing over $1 million
  
• WASHINGTON: Suspended Ceiling
  
• WASHINGTON: Exterior Commercial
  
• WASHINGTON: Exterior Residential
  
• OREGON: Restoration
  
• OREGON: Renovation
  
• OREGON: Light-Gauge Steel Framing under $1 million
  
• OREGON: Light-Gauge Steel Framing over $1 million
  
• OREGON: Suspended Ceiling
  
• OREGON: Exterior, Commercial
  
• OREGON: Interior under $1 million
  
• OREGON: Interior over $1 million
  
• OREGON: Stucco / EIFS