Sand Valley Resort, Nekoosa-Wisconsin: Northworks Hospitality Project

An upscale destination for resort lifestyles

Set into the sandy remains of an ancient glacial lake that once covered much of central Wisconsin, Sand Valley is a Top 100 destination golf resort.

The site is characterized by a dramatic 1,700-acre landscape of tumbling prehistoric sand dunes, set off by towering 100-foot elevation changes. Working alongside the Sand Valley team, we organically developed an inspired new master plan that covers varying scales of structure across 220,000 square feet. Numbering some 37 buildings in total, we were tasked with creating designs that would fast take root, seamlessly transitioning into active aspects of the resort lifestyle upon completion. Sand Valley first opened to the public in 2017, though several new additions have followed since, such as the Modern Barn Retreat recreational resort residence. 2024 will see the launch of a new tennis club, whilst an elegant spa is also in the works.

As the project’s architectural voice, our concept was influenced by numerous considerations, such as time-honored golfing traditions, allowance for growth, and the need to establish a build that offered due deference to the landscape.

We were compelled to envisage a design so exceptional that it heightened the demand for Sand Valley as a high-end, year-round destination. As such, we utilized materials that would patina quickly, thereby enhancing the effect of structures that naturally existed within their environment.

STANDOUT FEATURES

Northworks designed a variety of projects within the resort. The main clubhouse features upscale lodge rooms and suites with generous views of the golf course, in addition to several bar and dining concepts. In addition, refined cottage accommodation ranges from two to four-bedroom, whilst a luxury cabin overlooks the 18th hole. A collection of golf course structures are also features.

ON REFLECTION

With an ambitious scope that covered almost 40 new structures, our hospitality architecture team succeeded in the creation of an elevated new design backdrop for Sand Valley’s signature brand of resort lifestyle.

Our Approach