The Lighthorse Police Department Headquarters Campus, commissioned by the Chickasaw Nation, represents a significant step forward in centralizing and enhancing the operational capabilities of the department. Located just southwest of Ada, Oklahoma, the new campus is designed to be both highly functional and a powerful symbol of transparency, openness, and respect.
From the outset, the architectural vision was clear: to create a facility that would not only meet the practical needs of the Lighthorse Police Department but also embody the traditions and ethos of the Chickasaw Nation. The design team approached this challenge by integrating natural materials and finishes that echo the aesthetic language of traditional Chickasaw structures, while also embracing modern functionality and sustainability.
The exterior of the Headquarters is a harmonious blend of natural stone, brick veneer, and a variety of EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) finishes. These materials are carefully selected for durability. A sand pebble EIFS finish is used above the stone cladding and around windows, adding texture and warmth. Smooth phenolic panels accentuate the vertical and horizontal transitions of the building, particularly at the main entry and along the façade’s perimeter. Cast stone accents appear as darker horizontal bands, subtly reinforcing the building’s stature and importance.
The glazing systems are equally thoughtful. A clear anodized aluminum curtain wall system graces the two-story main entrance, allowing natural light to flood the lobby while maintaining thermal efficiency with 1” insulated low-e coated glass. Secondary entrances and window openings utilize a similar aluminum storefront system, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic. Sunshades, prefinished to match the EIFS, add a functional elegance by reducing glare and managing solar heat gain.
Moving inside, the design narrative continues seamlessly. The main lobby is a welcoming space that showcases the Chickasaw Nation Seal and the Lighthorse Police badge. The lobby’s two-story atrium is both spacious and inviting, with full-height, partially opaque glazing on the second floor that bathes the space in soft, diffused light. A feature wall narrates the history of the Lighthorse Police Department through photos, memorabilia, and interactive displays, creating a museum-like experience that honors the past while looking forward.
Warm wood tones, sculpted finishes, and a palette inspired by natural elements define the interior spaces. The welcome desk, framed in a wooden portal with stone wainscoting and bulletproof glazing, strikes a balance between security and approachability. Specialty lighting is employed strategically to enhance key design elements, guiding visitors intuitively through the space.
As an integral part of the Headquarters Building, the Training Facility is designed for versatility and efficiency. It includes a tiered training room capable of hosting up to 140 people, a catering kitchen, a gym with impact-resistant flooring, and locker rooms with slip-resistant finishes. Durable and cost-effective materials, such as carpet tiles, luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), and acoustic panels, ensure these spaces can withstand heavy use while maintaining an inviting atmosphere.
The Canine Quarters Building is to the east of the Headquarters and adopts a more utilitarian design without sacrificing aesthetic coherence. As a pre-engineered metal building, it features prefinished metal roof and wall panels with a brick wainscot and cast stone ledge that wrap around the entire perimeter. The interior is designed for durability and ease of maintenance, with sealed concrete flooring and epoxy-painted walls. The kennels are constructed with CMU walls and chain-link fencing, ensuring both security and ventilation for the canine units.
Similarly, the Dive and SWAT Building follows a pre-engineered metal building model, but incorporates elements tailored to its specific functions. Insulated coiling doors provide secure access to vehicle bays, while a covered, open-air wash bay extends the building’s utility. The interior design here prioritizes durability, with high-impact resistant wall materials, sealed concrete floors, and exposed ceilings in garage areas.
Throughout the campus, sustainability and energy efficiency are embedded into the design. LED lighting systems, automated controls, and energy-efficient HVAC systems work in unison to reduce operational costs and environmental impact. Internal roof drains channel stormwater to underground systems, minimizing runoff and maintaining the site’s natural integrity.
The result is a campus that does more than just consolidate the Lighthorse Police Department’s operations. It stands as a testament to the Chickasaw Nation’s commitment to safety, service, and sustainability.