HDC Apache Corners
Tonto Apache Tribe | Payson, AZ
The Tonto Apache Tribe is located adjacent to the town of Payson (originally named Te-go-suk, Place of the Yellow Water), in northwestern Gila County approximately 90 miles northeast of Phoenix and 100 miles southeast of Flagstaff, Arizona.
Consisting of 85 acres, it’s the smallest land base reservation in the state of Arizona.
"The team at fi architecture is adept at distilling to its essence the needs of every client and every project. Lead by the talented and award winning architect Darrin Filand, the team at fi has consistently delivered world class results for our projects and our partners for more than a decade. They are a key reason for the success of our brand."
Justin Stiefel, CEO and Co-Founder | Heritage Distilling Company
Project Description: Apache Corners
Location: Payson, Arizona
Apache Corners represents a transformative $200 million multi-year community and economic development initiative led by the Tonto Apache Tribal Nation in collaboration with Heritage Distilling Company (HDC) among other trusted partners. This groundbreaking project will establish the first tribally owned distillery on trust land in Arizona, marking a significant milestone in tribal economic empowerment.
The initial phase of Apache Corners focuses on revitalizing the under-utilized west side of the Mazatzal Hotel and Casino property. This phase, scheduled to be completed by early 2026, includes the development of several key facilities:
HDC Tasting Room: A welcoming space for visitors to experience and sample the unique offerings of the distillery.
Production Operations Building: A dedicated facility for spirits processing and bottling, ensuring high-quality production standards.
Food Service Building: An area providing diverse culinary options for guests and locals alike.
Outdoor Plaza and Entertainment District: A vibrant venue featuring a stage and support spaces for concerts and community events, fostering cultural engagement and entertainment.
This initial phase is part of a broader master plan that envisions a comprehensive community hub. Future developments will include a grocery store, healthcare clinic, various restaurants, a convenience store, manufacturing and distribution spaces, office facilities, entertainment venues, and enhanced accommodations at the Mazatzal Casino and Hotel.
The design efforts for this initial scope are led by fi architecture, in collaboration with Long Design Associates as the Architect of Record, and Pimmex-Chase serving as the General Contractor and Project Manager. Together, they are committed to creating a sustainable and thriving community space that reflects the cultural heritage and aspirations of the Tonto Apache Tribal Nation.
Owner & Project Team
Owner – Tonto Apache Tribe | Chairman Calvin Johnson
Econometric Analytics | Owner’s Rep – aLocal Solutions | Eric S. Trevan, Ph.D.
General Contractor – Pimmex-Chase | Tempe, Arizona
Lead Design Architect – fi architecture | Gig Harbor, Washington
Architect of Record – Long Design Associates LLC | Payson, Arizona
Structural – PCS Structural Solutions | Tacoma, Washington
Mechanical | Plumbing | Electrical – BCE, A Gannett Fleming TranSystems Company | Fife, Washington
Lighting Design – LUMA | Portland, Oregon
Acoustic Engineer – Tenor | Seattle, Washington