Through materials and finishes, textures and patterns the design of the new Chickasaw Nation Health Clinic in Tishomingo, OK reflects the proud history and heritage of the Native American tribe. Contributing to the success of the project was Dri-Design Tapered Series metal panels, manufactured by Holland, MI-based Dri-Design. Installed at the center of the clinic and at the stair towers flanking both ends of the building, the panels emulate the texture and color of the Chickasaw native blackberry, which has played a notable role in the tribe’s history.

The facility strives to meet the comprehensive health care needs of the Native American population in the southeastern region of Chickasaw Nation. The new 53,000 sq. ft. clinic is four times larger than the original clinic, which opened more than 40 years ago.

The Tapered Series Panels can be angled in any direction with varying depths and degree of slopes. Approximately 5,300 sq. ft. of the Tapered Series .080’ aluminum panels finished in Charcoal were utilized on the project.

The focal point of the building is the main entrance atrium. In addition to the Dri-Design panels, the form and material selection is inspired by the sun representing life and revitalization of the soul, as well as the Chickasaw shield representing the strength of the Chickasaw Nation.

Architectural design for the clinic was provided by James R. Childers Architect, Inc., Fort Smith, AR. “This was a high-design project and the challenge was to bring it in on schedule and on budget,” according to Breck Childers, project architect. “We were trying to find materials that would best represent the natural elements that were integral to the design.”

This was the first time the firm had used a Dri-Design system. “We thought the looks and the design flexibility of the Tapered Series panels would best allow us to create the representative image of the classic Chickasaw Nation blackberry,” Childers said. “The folks at Dri-Design provided a panel grid that we carefully marked up to create the ‘blackberry pattern’ by specifying the exact direction in which each panel would taper and to what degree. The panels really produced the desired effect.”

Installation of the Dri-Design Tapered Series Panels was done by NOW Specialties, Carrollton, TX.

Features of the new clinic include 21 examination rooms, 12 dental chairs, pharmacy services, diagnostic laboratories, eye care, audiology and comprehensive community health and behavioral health services.

The project was built utilizing a unique joint venture partnership with Indian Health Services. Under the Federal program, the Chickasaw Nation funds construction of the clinic and Indian Health Services offers additional funds for staffing and operation for 20 years.

The general contractor on the project was Flintco, Tulsa.

Dri-Design panels are 100% recyclable and can be made from a variety of materials including zinc, copper, stainless steel and painted and anodized aluminum. Panels are available in any Kynar color and are sized and detailed to meet the specific requirements of each project. This cost effective system is Dade County and AAMA 508-07 approved.

For more information on the Dri-Design Wall Panel System, call 616-355-2970 or visit www.dri-design.com.