39Design, LLC Company Profile

Background

Overview

39Design, LLC is a 100% Native-owned architecture firm based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Established by citizens of the Choctaw, Cherokee, and Chickasaw Nations, the firm specializes in architecture, interior design, master planning, and programming services. Their mission is to serve Indian Country by creating designs that honor the unique cultures, needs, and missions of individual Tribal Nations. The firm is deeply committed to the success of Oklahoma’s Tribal Nations, viewing their achievements as a reflection of their own success. 39Design takes pride in delivering projects on time and within budget.

Mission and Vision

The firm's mission is to provide culturally resonant and functional designs that meet the specific needs of Tribal Nations. Their vision is to be a leading architecture firm that bridges traditional cultural values with modern design practices, fostering environments that support the growth and prosperity of Native communities.

Primary Area of Focus

39Design focuses on delivering architectural and design solutions that are culturally sensitive and tailored to the unique requirements of Native American communities. Their services encompass architecture, interior design, master planning, and programming, all aimed at enhancing the built environment within Indian Country.

Industry Significance

As a Native-owned firm, 39Design holds a unique position in the architecture industry, offering perspectives and insights that are deeply rooted in Native American cultures. Their work contributes to the preservation and celebration of Native heritage through thoughtful and culturally appropriate design solutions.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Cultural Integration: Incorporate Native American cultural elements into design projects to create spaces that resonate with the community's identity.

Community Empowerment: Design facilities that support the social, economic, and educational development of Native communities.

Sustainable Practices: Implement environmentally sustainable design strategies that align with traditional ecological knowledge.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Cultural Centers: Designing spaces that serve as hubs for cultural preservation and education.

Community Facilities: Creating buildings that support community gatherings, health services, and educational programs.

Master Planning: Developing comprehensive plans for community development that integrate cultural and environmental considerations.

Key Technologies Utilized

Building Information Modeling (BIM): Utilized for efficient design and construction processes.

Sustainable Design Tools: Employing software to analyze and implement energy-efficient and environmentally friendly design solutions.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

The firm's primary market includes Native American communities, particularly those within Oklahoma and the broader Indian Country. They focus on projects that require a deep understanding of cultural nuances and community needs.

Financials and Funding

Specific financial details, including total funds raised, recent funding rounds, and notable investors, are not publicly disclosed. As a privately held Native-owned firm, 39Design maintains a level of financial confidentiality. The firm is committed to utilizing its resources to support the growth and development of Native communities through culturally relevant design solutions.

Pipeline Development

While specific details about upcoming projects are not publicly available, 39Design is known for its involvement in significant community-focused projects. Their portfolio includes designs for cultural centers, community facilities, and master planning initiatives that aim to enhance the built environment within Native communities.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

39Design leverages advanced design and modeling software to create accurate and efficient architectural plans. Their use of BIM allows for detailed visualization and coordination throughout the design and construction phases.

Significant Scientific Methods

Cultural Analysis: Conducting thorough research to understand the cultural significance of design elements.

Community Engagement: Implementing participatory design processes to ensure that community members' voices are integral to the project development.

Leadership Team

Chris Teehee
Owner & Senior Project Manager

Chris Teehee is the owner and Senior Project Manager at 39Design. As a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation, Chris brings a deep understanding of Native American cultures to the firm. His leadership ensures that projects are executed with cultural sensitivity and meet the specific needs of the communities they serve.

Clay Dobbins
Owner Architect

Clay Dobbins serves as the Owner Architect at 39Design. A citizen of the Cherokee Nation, Clay combines his architectural expertise with a commitment to culturally relevant design. His work focuses on creating spaces that honor Native traditions while incorporating modern design principles.

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for culturally specific architectural services is niche, with few firms offering the depth of cultural integration that 39Design provides. This positions 39Design as a leader in serving Native American communities, with a growing demand for culturally resonant and community-focused design solutions.

Competitor Analysis

While there are other architecture firms serving Native communities, 39Design's unique position as a 100% Native-owned firm provides a distinct competitive advantage. Their deep cultural understanding and commitment to community empowerment set them apart in the industry.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

39Design collaborates with various Tribal Nations and community organizations to ensure that their designs meet the specific needs and cultural values of the communities they serve. These partnerships are integral to the firm's approach, fostering environments that support the growth and prosperity of Native communities.

Operational Insights

39Design's deep cultural understanding and commitment to community empowerment provide a distinct competitive advantage. Their focus on delivering projects on time and within budget, combined with their culturally resonant designs, positions them as a preferred partner for Native communities seeking architectural services.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, 39Design aims to expand its reach to serve more Native communities across the United States. By leveraging their expertise in culturally relevant design and community engagement, they plan to undertake larger-scale projects that further support the development and empowerment of Native communities.