Chaska Curling and Event Center

With the vision of revitalizing downtown Chaska and the timeworn Fireman’s Park, the City of Chaska planned the Chaska Curling and Event Center at the site of a former mine where clay was collected for brickmaking. The city’s goal was to celebrate its history and traditions while providing new recreation opportunities for the area.

The result is a six-rink curling center with associated locker rooms and players areas, a private restaurant with views to the curling rinks and park beyond, a 320-seat banquet space, and outdoor terraces that overlook the park, lake and lakeside pavilion. Also included in the project are several outdoor park improvements, including a new swimming beach, a playground and children’s play yard, an interactive fountain, and a great lawn with seating for 1,500.

Exterior building materials were selected to reflect the natural park environment, including native Minnesota limestone, natural zinc and Douglas fir. The yellow brick is reminiscent of the original Chaska brick that is no longer made.

Since opening, the building has been an overwhelming success. Curling club memberships, league participation and event center bookings have exceeded the City’s expectations, and when the park re-opens this summer, the vision of a revitalized Chaska will be complete.

Judge's Comments

"The designer’s use of Douglas fir for both ceilings and wall paneling has created a very warm and comfortable interior in all of the public spaces." — Philip Laird

"An elegant solution that lets the building function make the statement." — David Body

"The reference to local vernacular architecture and uplifting this heritage sport of curling is commendable. Exceptional work." — Jeff Penner