Location: Olympia, WA

Date: 2021

Project Keywords: Tribal Projects, Tribal Architecture, Healthcare

Project Description:

KMB architects and Korsmo Construction worked with the Nisqually Tribe for a new 50,000 SF health and wellness center to serve the tribe’s population. The center provided the tribe with a medical clinic, dental clinic, pharmacy, natural healing center, and mental health services.

The design focuses on incorporating the Nisqually Health Department’s concept of holistic healing. Their “Healing Circle,” which encompasses spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional health was a guiding principle for the design. KMB architects designed a welcoming, calming, and healing environment for the building occupants by providing natural finishes featuring connections to nature and ample daylight. A central glass corridor filled with plants and a boardwalk to imitate the Nisqually Delta Wildlife Refuge runs through the building and provides a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces. A child-focused waiting area is designed to put children at ease prior to meeting with a physician. Design features include a fish tank, low cubby climbing wall, and tooth shaped windows in dental areas to provide features children can relate to and engage with.