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CHICKASAW NATION YOUTH ACTIVITY CENTER

Sulphur, OK

CHICKASAW NATION EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

Ada, OK

CADDO NATION CHILD CARE CENTER

Hinton, OK

SAC & FOX FOOD DISTRIBUTION ADDITIONS

Stroud, OK

YELLOW EARTH LEARNING CENTER OF THE CENTRAL TRIBES OF THE SHAWNEE AREA

Stroud, OK

CANADIAN COUNTY #3 VEHICLE MAINTENANCE FACILITY

El Reno, OK

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE ADMINISTRATION BUILDING #3

Shawnee, OK

KICKAPOO TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA - CHILDCARE AUDITORIUM

Cache, OK

KICKAPOO TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA - CHILDCARE BUS BARN AND STORAGE FACILITY

Cache, OK

KICKAPOO TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA - CHILDCARE PARK AND NATURE TRAIL

Cache, OK

KICKAPOO TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA - CHILDCARE PARK AND NATURE TRAIL

Cache, OK

ADAMS/SUMMERS HOME ADDITION

LAZARUS COMMUNITY

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma BC Clark Memorial Methodist Church

CHICKASAW NATION YOUTH ACTIVITY CENTER

Sulphur, OK

Area & Cost 9,000 SF $3.5M construction

Completion 2024

Project Description Chickasaw Nation ICDBG Sulphur Youth Activity Center is a 9,000 sf facility designed to serve the Nations adjacent Head Start and Early Childhood facilities for the town of Sulphur, Oklahoma. Includes multi-purpose gymnasium, locker rooms, learning spaces, storage, and a hardened shelter.

CHICKASAW NATION EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

Ada, OK

Area & Cost 10,000 SF $5.8M construction

Completion Under construction

Project Description Chickasaw Nation ICDBG Early Child Development Center Addition and Renovation is a 10,000 sf addition including 6 classrooms and support spaces, restrooms, storage, and a new Kitchen. The renovation addresses the 40,000 sf existing facility and includes renovation of existing safe room, cosmetic, electrical, plumbing, upgrades, along with a security upgrade in the form of new security vestibule.

CADDO NATION CHILD CARE CENTER

Hinton, OK

Area & Cost 12,250 SF $10.2M construction

Completion Started 2023- Currently Under construction

Involvement DIAK Architects with MASS Design Group (AOR)

Services Schematic Design Design Development Construction Documents Construction Administration

Awards Architect Magazine "How Architecture Can Learn from Native America," 2024 AIA Concept Innovation Award 2023

Project Description Caddo Nation Early Child Care is a new facility in Hinton, Oklahoma. MASS Design Group is Architect of Record and DIAK Architects as Architect for Code Compliance and Construction Administration. The Caddo Nation Childcare Center embodies cultural preservation, community empowerment, and economic self-determination. Supporting 90 children and their families from across the Caddo Nation, the center focuses on nurturing future leaders while addressing the urgent need for critical childcare infrastructure within the region. Integrating Caddo-specific materials, motifs, and artists, the center fosters a sense of identity and belonging among children, families, and elders. The design integrates spaces such as teaching gardens, indoor-outdoor learning environments, areas for elders and children to interact, a tornado shelter, and an aquatic center, all prioritizing health, safety, sustainability, and cultural specificity.
This will be the first project built by the newly formed Arrowood Kakinah Enterprise, a construction company owned and operated by the Caddo Nation. By building construction expertise in-house, the Tribe will ensure money spent on the project stays within the Caddo community. The plan is earth-centered, with a design that cultivates respect for the environment through eco-sensitive construction, including passive design strategies, rooftop and on-site rainwater harvesting, and a 90% all-electric energy strategy. Interior details draw inspiration from the Caddo and Great Plains vernacular through regionally specific materials, motifs, artists, and makers.

SAC & FOX FOOD DISTRIBUTION ADDITIONS

Stroud, OK

Area & Cost Main Building 28,000 SF Office Space 3,000 SF $6.5M construction cost

Completion 2024

Services Project Management, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Bidding, Construction Administration

Project Features Code Analysis Building Additions Utility Improvements ADA/Universal Design Daylighting Implementation

Project Description The Scope of work included as-built drawings, code analysis and ADA review, structural analysis, MEP upgrades, Warehouse and Retail Additions, and civil improvements.
DIAK Architects was selected to design and coordinate the construction of two separate but related Additions to the SFN Food Distribution Center. One, a warehouse for Inventory storage, and the other for Retail distribution to Tribal Members.
Utilizing a Pre-Engineered Metal Building Structure to match the existing Building, redesigning the existing mechanical System, and creatively using daylighting in the retail portion, both additions will actually reduce the overall utility cost of both existing and new structures.

Features

Accuracy of as-built building survey reducing frustrations and re-work during construction.
Thoughtful Design allowed for reduced Construction Cost and allowed for visual expression of the Nation's Cultural values.

YELLOW EARTH LEARNING CENTER OF THE CENTRAL TRIBES OF THE SHAWNEE AREA

Stroud, OK

Cost $4.9M construction cost

Completion Start: 2024 End: Pending (2026)

Services Cultural Design Programming Architectural Design Sustainable Design Project Management Construction Documentation

Project Features Code Analysis Remodel Geothermal Fire Suppression Design ADA/Universal Design Child Development Design

Project Description This project for the CTSA serves multiple tribes in the effort to provide enhanced childcare and childhood development services to the region's families. This is a multi-phased project designed and built on existing property.

Things to be taken into consideration are

Careful and phased demolition of the existing facility and programmatic downtime.
Parking for staff fleet and/or personal vehicles, as well as designated vehicle areas for visitors.
A portion of the northern half of the site is anticipated to be left in place and/or re-configured.
Exterior and interior signage and lighting that makes entry / exit clear, as well as safe and inviting.
Covered drop off area / entry to protect parents and children.
Secure entry vestibule and reception area with good sight lines.
Comfortable offices and staff spaces (e.g. breakroom, etc.) with adequate storage.
Commercial kitchen and pantry to support the CTSA healthy foods initiatives.
Multi-purpose room with rubberized floor and wainscoting that is easy to clean and maintenance.
FEMA rated spaces for designation as shelter
A toddler / infant room with dedicated bathrooms, storage, shelving, and room for an inverter.
Classrooms for Head Start, 1-Year Olds, 2 & 3-Year Olds, and 4 & 5-Year Olds.
Dedicated storage, shelving, bathrooms, and sinks accessible from the learning space.
Direct access to the fenced-in outside play area from classrooms.
Mechanical and electrical spaces that support energy efficient systems for lighting, HVAC, etc.
Design for future solar power interconnections.

YELLOW EARTH LEARNING CENTER OF THE CENTRAL TRIBES OF THE SHAWNEE AREA

El Reno, OK

Area 8,000 SF shop 2,400 SF office space

Cost $2.5M construction cost

Completion 2025

Project Description Canadian County Vehicle Maintenance Facility, located in El-Reno, Oklahoma, replaces, improves and enlarges Canadian County's vehicle fleet servicing capacity, replacing both their existing administrative offices, and their vehicle maintenance building. The 2400 sq.ft. administrative wing meets the public with offices, restrooms, kitchen, laundry room and conference room. The larger 8000 sq.ft. vehicle maintenance wing, double the size of their existing with 2 service bays, oil changing pit, and a hardened safe room area. The facility is designed with a back-up generator system.

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE ADMINISTRATION BUILDING #3

Shawnee, OK

Area & Cost $5M Construction 9,800 SF

Completion In Progress

Project Description The New two-story Administration building is designed for the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma to enhance the growth of their Tribal Services, providing a multipurpose space for administrative operations and offices along with storage and a saferoom. DIAK Architects provided full architectural and engineering design services for the new Administration Building, including:

Programming and space planning tailored to tribal administrative functions.
Architectural design emphasizing functionality, durability, and cultural identity.
Structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering coordination.
Site design including grading, utilities, and paving.
Preparation of construction documents, specifications, and bid packages.
Support during the procurement and construction administration phases.

KICKAPOO TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA - CHILDCARE AUDITORIUM

Cache, OK

Area & Cost 17,000 SF $6.8M Construction

Completion In Progress

Project Description This 14,000 sf facility is designed for a full court gymnasium/auditorium and stage which supports five new childcare classrooms, including one doubling as a hardened area and saferoom. Also include are restrooms, offices, and a cultural lobby including traditional Kickapoo lodge structure constructed by local indigenous artist, Nick Blancard.
This carbon reduced all-electric facility includes multiple passive daylighting design strategies, including clerestory lighting that ensures the possibility of natural light in every classroom.
Two existing ponds on site have been improved to support the site’s natural hydrology and provide additional educational features on hydrology and ecology for the children.

KICKAPOO TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA - CHILDCARE BUS BARN AND STORAGE FACILITY

Cache, OK

Area & Cost 6,000 SF $6.8M Construction

Completion In Progress

Project Description Designed to accommodate the growing fleet of the expanding childcare program, this 6000 sf PEMB facility includes protected vehicle storage space for 2 buses, multiple 2 axle vehicles and smaller cart vehicles, as well as campus maintenance office and campus maintenance storage. The east end includes a storage bay with twenty secure storage rooms to serve each teacher. The west end adds an additional exterior parking bay to allow for future growth.

KICKAPOO TRIBE OF OKLAHOMA - CHILDCARE PARK AND NATURE TRAIL

Cache, OK

Area & Cost 17,000 SF $6.8M Construction

Completion In Progress

Project Description Taking advantage of the natural beauty and water resources of the Kickapoo Tribal Campus, the Childcare Park, culturally themed around six clans of the Kickapoo Nation; Bear, Warrior, Water, Berry and Thunder, includes a splash pad, shaded playground equipment, restroom facilities, picnic pavilion, basketball court, and shaded outdoor amphitheater and classroom.
The connected Childcare Walking Trail allows the children to safely explore two shaded ponds on the campus. Through a combination of signage and design, the six clans are represented further, along with lessons on the ecology and hydrology of the area. Importantly, the ponds have received improvements to guarantee their continued natural function of supporting the natural hydrology of the area, allowing stormwater from the expanding campus infrastructure to be managed on site, allowing for natural water conservation and reducing the impact to neighbors downstream.

COMANCHE NATION FAIRGROUNDS - NEW MASTER PLAN

Cache, OK

Project Description New Comanche Fairgrounds Masterplan, a collaborative process with the Comanche Nation allowed for a thorough exploration of the Comanche Nation's priorities and vision for the Comanche Fair which has consistently exhibited increased attendance and popularity over the past several years.
That Master Plan relocated the Fairgrounds from its current land locked site within the main Comanche Nation complex, to a new 120 acre site adjacent to the recently expanded Comanche Nation Cache Casino, at the Northwest corner of Highway 62 and Highway 115, the New Masterplan includes the Fairgrounds, Hotel, Multi-Purpose Facility, Pow Wow Arbor, Rodeo Grounds, Outdoor amphitheater, Athletic Fields, parking, restrooms, concessions, roads and Infrastructure.

ADAMS/SUMMERS HOME ADDITION

Area 1,000 SF

Cost $125,000.00

Completion 2025

Involvement Schematic Design Design Development Construction Documents Permitting Construction Administration

Project Features

Primary Bedroom
Primary Bathroom
Family Room
Pool Room
Passive Sustainable Design

Project Description This 1,000 SF addition to the existing 2,000 SF Adams Summers residence adds a Primary Bedroom Suite with Fire Place, Walk In Closet, Bathroom with Tub and Walk in Shower, and French Doors opening up to the covered West Facing Porch and Pool, as well as a New Living Area with Fire Place and Benches with Built in Storage, and another set of French Doors looking out onto the covered porch and Pool, and a Restroom/Pool Changing Room, connecting to the porch area as well. The Covered West Porch adds an outdoor kitchen, ceiling fans, and spectacular view west across the pool and hot tub to the end of the double lot length back yard.

LAZARUS COMMUNITY

Area 4.5 Acres

Cost $1,000,000.00

Completion 2024

Involvement Master Planning Architectural Site Planning Civil Engineering

Project Features

Roads
Parking Site
Water Detention Site Utilities

Project Description Lazarus Community is a Transitional Recovery Community providing Individuals without Housing, not only Housing, but Mental Health Services, Addiction Support Services, Faith Services, and Job Placement. Twenty Single Mobile Homes provide Housing to support Recovery Services.
Professional Design Services included Site Planning and Civil Engineering including Roads, Parking, Accessibility, Utilities and Site Water Detention.

People

Shannon Barczak

Founder & Principal Owner

Tom Barczak

LA, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP

Principal Architect & Owner

Thomas Hess

AIA Associate

Senior Project Management | Specialist

Joseph Hounarmand

AIA Associate

Project Manager

Mattie Farve

AIA Associate

Project Manager | Intern

Becky Smallwood

Office Manager

Nicholas Barczak

Drafter

Ariane Janelle A. Gementiza

Description Needed

Carl Guiller Magno

Description Needed

Shannon Barczak

Founder & Principal Owner

Shannon is a seasoned Executive Administrator, cultural design specialist, and grant-writer operating out of the Norman, OK office. Her background in systems operations, as well as holistic health and wellness for Tribal Nations and Native American communities lends itself to the success of DIAK Architects. She is a tribally enrolled member of the Apsáalooke Nation (Crow Tribe of Montana) as well as descendant of the Kiowa and Cherokee Nations of Oklahoma.

Tom Barczak

LA, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP

Principal Architect & Owner

Tom is the Architect-Of-Record responsible for all phases of development and design. Based out of the Norman, OK office, he provides a sensitive, yet technical approach to the practical and cultural needs of clients allows him to present the best possible options and outcomes that balance schedules, budgets and quality. Tom is also an accomplished artist, which he puts to good use in his architectural designs.

Thomas Hess

AIA Associate

Senior Project Management | Specialist

With over 30 years of experience in healthcare facility design, Tom brings a comprehensive approach to project management that consistently delivers exceptional results meeting client needs and industry standards. His extensive knowledge of architectural practices, especially within healthcare environments, positions him as a trusted leader on complex projects. Tom’s responsibilities span all phases of project delivery, including program development, preliminary and design development, interior design, consultant coordination, production of bidding documents, contract administration, construction oversight, and project closeout. His expertise ensures thorough evaluation at every stage — from bid review to warranty inspections. Tom is operating out of Tulsa location.

Thomas Hess

AIA Associate

Project Manager

With a foundation in fabrication and ironwork, Joseph brings a hands-on understanding of materials and a passion for creating to his work in architecture. His path blends craft, creativity, and purpose — driven by a belief that design can carry meaning and emotion. As a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Joseph was drawn to the firm’s mission of serving Native communities. He values design that respects the land, reflects cultural values, and gives back to the people it serves. Known for being focused, dependable, and detail-oriented, he approaches every project with discipline, curiosity, and a mindset of continuous learning. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family, hiking, and exploring new ideas. He believes that good design is grounded in purpose and connection — built to last, serve, and resonate with those who use it.

Mattie Farve

AIA Associate

Project Manager | Intern

Mattie is passionate about architecture and committed to creating meaningful, purposeful spaces. He values being involved in every stage of the design process and brings ambition, curiosity, and a thoughtful approach to his work. With a strong interest in projects that serve tribal communities, Mattie is dedicated to designs that honor culture and connection. His personal and educational experiences deeply influence his creative perspective. Outside of work, he enjoys fiction writing, photography, and spending time with family. Mattie is a tribally enrolled member of the Chickasaw Nation. He believes that good design is grounded in purpose and connection — built to last, serve, and resonate with those who use it.

Becky Smallwood

Office Manager

With a strong connection to tribal communities, Becky brings cultural awareness and dependable support to her role as Office Manager. She’s known for her humor, flexibility, steady presence, and attention to detail in helping keep daily operations on track. She values the depth and coordination behind every project and is especially drawn to the influence of Native design in the built environment. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and participating in hand games. Becky is a tribally enrolled member of the Apsáalooke Nation (Crow Tribe of Montana) and is a descendent of the Kiowa Tribe.

Nicholas Barczak

Drafter

Nick brings strong attention to detail and a dedicated work ethic to every project. He is preparing to further his studies in architecture by attending college, aiming to expand his skills and take on greater responsibilities in the field. Known for his enthusiasm and commitment to learning, Nick supports the team with focus and a collaborative spirit.

Ariane Janelle A. Gementiza

Title

Description

Carl Guiller Magno

Title

Description

DIAKARCHITECTS

"DIAK" in Apsáalooke means “TO MAKE”
To make something, to create new, to understand the great honor and responsibility for its effect on every thing, and every life, every community it touches.

About Us

Our Philosophy

Native Woman Owned Professional Services Firm

Our Approach

Our Commitment

Design Principles

Change

Discovery

Economy

EcoSystems

Energy

Equitable Communities

Integration

Resources

Water

Well Being

Services and Project Types

PRE-DEVELOPMENT

Project Types

Gallery

People

Shannon Barczak

Tom Barczak

Thomas Hess

Joseph Hounarmand

Mattie Farve

Becky Smallwood

Nicholas Barczak

Ariane Janelle A. Gementiza

Carl Guiller Magno

DIAKARCHITECTS

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