Gensler Begins Construction on Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribal Wellness Center
Construction has commenced on the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribal Wellness Center in Flandreau, South Dakota, with the design crafted by Gensler's Minneapolis team. This initiative involves the renovation of an existing 18,000-square-foot building alongside the addition of a new 95,000-square-foot facility. The design embodies the Dakota principle of wicozani, merging health, culture, and community. Key features will include a therapy pool, fitness areas, spaces for behavioral health, cultural education rooms, and outdoor wellness features, including a garden dedicated to native and medicinal plants. Additionally, energy-efficient elements like a 300-well geothermal system and solar infrastructure will be incorporated. Bill Baxley, Gensler's design leader, highlighted the importance of community involvement. Another project by DSGW Architects aims to replace the tribal and finance offices, anticipated to be completed by May 2028.
Key facts
- Construction has begun on the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribal Wellness Center in Flandreau, South Dakota.
- Gensler's Minneapolis office is renovating an existing 18,000-square-foot building and designing a new 95,000-square-foot structure.
- The project is rooted in the Dakota concept of wicozani, holistically viewing health, culture, and connection.
- The exterior is clad in thermally modified wood with sinuous curves and geometric patterns.
- Interiors will feature wood and traditional Dakota patterns.
- The center includes an event center, therapy pool, fitness facilities, behavioral health spaces, cultural education rooms, a ceremony room, teaching kitchen, and outdoor wellness amenities.
- A 300-well geothermal system, solar infrastructure, and daylighting are part of the energy strategy.
- Completion is anticipated for May 2028.
Entities
Artists
- Bill Baxley
Institutions
- Gensler
- DSGW Architects
- Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe
Locations
- Flandreau
- South Dakota
- United States