Alaska Native Heritage Center

Explore Design led the recent renovation of the Alaska Native Heritage Center, revitalizing the facility’s interior environment in support of its mission to preserve and share Alaska Native cultures. The effort modernized key public spaces through new finishes, upgraded lighting, improved material selections, and interpretive design features that enrich the visitor experience. Every decision was shaped through collaboration with ANHC staff and community stakeholders to ensure the design reflected cultural priorities and honored the Center’s role as a gathering place for education and celebration.

A signature feature of the project is a custom carpet pattern derived from the work of a Native artist. Updated wall colors were selected to improve light levels and complement refreshed exhibit areas. A full lighting assessment guided the transition to sustainable LED fixtures, improving both energy efficiency and the quality of illumination throughout the facility.

The Hall of Cultures was also reimagined to highlight the diversity of Alaska’s five regions through custom graphics, photography, and interpretive elements that deepen visitor connection to the stories being shared.

The result is a modern, flexible interior that strengthens the Alaska Native Heritage Center’s ability to support its programs while honoring the traditions and identities of the communities it represents.