CCRC / LPC LITE
SAINT THERESE OF CORCORAN
Saint Therese has provided quality care for older adults for over 50 years. Marking a major milestone in its mission expansion and to improve services for residents, Saint Therese embarked on a new senior living campus in the northwest Twin Cities’ suburb of Corcoran, Minnesota. Corcoran is a mix of farms and pastures with a small-town vibe, and on the edge of more dense urban cities.
Planned in partnership with the City of Corcoran, Saint Therese purchased 13 acres adjacent to the City Hall, and the new senior community is the inaugural project of Corcoran’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan for a future downtown district. Saint Therese of Corcoran blends the warmth of an inviting, close-knit neighborhood with the sophistication of a modern, state-of-the-art community. It is designed as both a community resource and architectural catalyst for this new area.
A guiding principle throughout the design was creating a seamless, non-institutional environment that fosters connection, autonomy, and dignity. Saint Therese is known as the “Little Flower,” and this served as inspiration to the interior design throughout the facility. Design elements include the garden themed color palette with vibrant pops of color, subtle and sophisticated application of floral design in fabric and tile, and accents of greenery placed in interior spaces.
A variety of dining experiences are available, including The Rose Café, which is open to the public. This venue features a specialty bar (with liquor license), booths, café seating and dining area, offering a vibrant hospitality-focused impression for visitors as they walk in the main entrance. The community also includes a library, activity space, woodworking shop, virtual golf/interactive game simulator and theater, and amphitheater for use by local organizations and to support special events. This summer, Saint Therese hosted a free monthly concert series, which was a big hit for residents and families.
A cornerstone of Saint Therese’s new campus is their faith-based mission. The organization and design team worked closely with the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis to plan and fundraise for this project. Together, the group carefully designed the chapel and full-height stained glass window, which was created by local Minnesota artist Wayne Norton. Through partnerships with a merging parish, key liturgical items — including an altar with a relic and restored tabernacle — were donated, emphasizing a community-focused connection. The public can access the chapel and wellness center, allowing them to visit for services, events and fitness sessions.
