$20-plus million-dollar project to expand clubhouse and Arroyo Grille, add wedding/event space and create a signature turn experience
Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club in Maricopa, Ariz. and the Ak-Chin Indian Community recently began site work on a new 24,000 square-foot clubhouse and event facility with construction set to begin in March. Scheduled to open in spring of 2027, the new building will include a contemporary “food hall”, an enlarged Arroyo Grille, new private dining rooms and a banquet room, a larger golf shop, enhanced kitchen space, a new bridal suite, and an indoor golf simulator room featuring the latest GOLFZON simulator. The simulator room will serve a dual purpose during weddings, converting into a space for groomsmen to gather and relax. To view a fly-through of the new clubhouse, click here.
The new clubhouse was designed by Meyers + Associates Architecture of Columbus, Ohio. Arizona-based PIMMEX-CHASSE is handling the construction, while Troon Design and Development, led by industry leader Cindy Anderson, is assisting the Ak-Chin Indian Community’s Capital Projects team with project management.
Utilizing a palette of heavy exposed timber, natural stone, stucco, decorative concrete, and various other natural materials, the clubhouse’s exterior design is rooted in the spirit of creating a timeless and authentic sense of place with a color palette of desert sand, ochre, and red. The color palette serves as a nod to the natural beauty of the region, while warm, earthy tones will be artfully applied to various exteriors, creating a harmonious relationship with the landscape. New outdoor spaces will include multiple patio dining areas, a beautiful event lawn for outdoor events, a fire feature, a reimagined putting green, and a one-of-a-kind Halfway House between the 9th green and 10th tee that will offer a distinct experience, allowing golf carts to drive through a building with food and beverage items available in a market-like presentation.
“This exciting project is another example of the Ak-Chin Indian Community’s dedication to creating a truly remarkable guest experience at Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club,” said Ak-Chin Community Chairman Gabriel Lopez. “We are committed to continuing the tradition of providing best-in-state golf experience, expanding the amenities around our community, and delivering the region’s preeminent dining and event destination.”
The new building is designed around a central axis that serves as the spine from which all public spaces can be accessed. This spine not only serves a practical purpose for circulation but also acts as a conduit to framing views of the property. From the entry lobby, guests are led through the new food hall and event space, around the signature bar, out to the covered patio and fire feature, and down to the event lawn to take-in the panoramic desert and golf course views. The building is designed with covered areas that blur the boundary between interior and exterior space, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of the site while remaining protected from the elements.
“Our engagement with the Ak-Chin Community and the leadership at Southern Dunes has been an exceptional experience in collaboration,” said Meyers + Associates Principal Architect and Owner, Chris Meyers. “We were able to exemplify the community culture and maximize the potential of the existing facilities with a total transformation that will offer an outstanding experience to all who visit. The focus of the project was to enhance the culture of the Ak-Chin Community and offer a facility that brings people together for celebrations, dining and an exceptional golf experience.”
The new clubhouse and facilities will provide visitors with a premier experience at Ak-Chin Southern Dunes by enhancing dining options and create additional entertainment opportunities. By increasing the size of the clubhouse to include multiple dining options and a larger banquet facility, the club will be able to provide more value to guests and enhance their time on property. The increase in facilities will also provide additional capacity for Ak-Chin Southern Dunes to host larger events, including weddings and golf tournaments.
In the spring of 2027, the golfer’s experience at Ak-Chin Southern Dunes will also be entirely new. From check-in at the new bag-drop to routing through the expanded clubhouse, golfers will enjoy updated amenities and expanded offerings ranging from new merchandise options to new food and beverage varieties. Additionally, the new Halfway House will deliver a more efficient experience for golfers as they make their way around the course. The Market at the Halfway House will offer grab-n-go food and beverage options, with air-conditioned restrooms and an ice and water station. The advantage of providing these services independent of the clubhouse means less time at the turn (equating to quicker rounds) and improved customer service.
“We’re proud to partner with Southern Dunes, the Ak-Chin Indian Community, Troon, and Meyers + Associates on a project that’s raising the bar both on and off the course,” stated PIMMEX-CHASSE Business Unit Leader Eric Noble. “From the expanded clubhouse and halfway station to the upgraded cart barn and event lawn, every element is designed to elevate the player and community experience. We’re excited to have officially kicked off Phase 1 construction with the parking lot expansion, marking an important first step in bringing these improvements to life.”
For more information on Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club, visit www.akchinsoutherndunes.com.