Spirit Mountain Casino set for major repaint

By Alexander Bliven

Smoke Signals intern

The exteriors of the Spirit Mountain Casino and Hotel, RV clubhouse and Tribal-owned Grand Ronde Station are scheduled to receive a new color palette beginning in late August.

The repainting project, part of ongoing efforts to update and modernize the more than 30-year-old casino property, will retire its long-held terracotta and teal color scheme.

The new palette will feature rich earth tones, warm neutrals and deep blue accents that Spirit Mountain Casino CEO Camille Mercier said were “inspired by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest and the cultural heritage that makes our property unique.”

In an email to casino staff, Mercier stated the updated colors were chosen to better align with the casino’s current branding and create a more cohesive appearance across the property.

The project, initially brought forward by Mercier to the Spirit Mountain Gaming Inc. Board of Directors, received funding and unanimous support from the board.

During a Wednesday, June 3, Tribal Council meeting, Tribal Council and SMGI Board member Matthew Haller said one of the primary reasons for repainting was due to the condition of the property’s exterior.

“When you look at it, the lodge is faded and it just looks old,” Haller said. “It needs a freshen up.”

Haller stated he did not know when the casino had last been painted but that some portions of it appeared more faded and weathered due to sun exposure. He added that past contracted touch-ups to the building — some internal and others outsourced — have also resulted in an appearance that lacks consistency.

Mercier stated the repainting is intended to give the casino and other facilities a more contemporary appearance, build a stronger visual identity for the resort and create a better first impression for guests.

“As Oregon’s premier gaming and entertainment destination, we want our facilities to reflect the same level of excellence, quality and pride that our team delivers every day,” Mercier said.

The exterior repainting is one of several improvement projects for the property to take place later this summer. Other projects include converting the casino’s Mountain View Sports Bar into a new entryway gaming area and the transformation of The Peak into a new sports bar and restaurant.

Mercier said the exterior refresh reflects broader efforts to invest in the property while ensuring it remains successful in the future.

“We remain committed to ensuring Spirit Mountain Casino continues to evolve while honoring the values and traditions that have guided us for over 30 years,” she said.