Designing for Privacy and Security: Best Practices for Protecting Member Safety and Privacy

Episode 019
Welcome to “Experience in Golf Clubhouse Design”, a podcast that delves into the world of golf clubhouse architecture and interior design, uncovering the fascinating intricacies of human interaction and its profound impact on member lifestyles. Let’s immerse ourselves in the realm of architecture, exploring the concepts and details that pave the way for a successful golf clubhouse and resort experience, from proshop design to fitness and dining. In today’s episode, we’ll cover the topic of how golf clubhouse design can ensure member safety and privacy while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing and functional space.
Today, we’re going to explore an interesting topic: designing for privacy and security in golf clubhouse architecture. It’s essential to create spaces that prioritize member safety and privacy without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality. So, let’s dive right in!
When it comes to protecting member safety, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s crucial to establish clear and secure access points throughout the clubhouse. This ensures that only authorized individuals can enter designated areas, preventing any potential security breaches.
To ensure that members feel safe and secure in the clubhouse, additional measures can be taken beyond simply establishing access points. For instance, many golf clubhouses feature a series of security cameras strategically placed throughout the interior and exterior. This allows for an extra layer of protection, allowing clubhouse staff to monitor activity and take immediate action if necessary. It’s important to consider the layout of the clubhouse and make sure that areas are easily navigable and clearly marked, eliminating potential confusion.
Incorporating a well-structured surveillance system is vital. Strategically placed cameras can monitor high-traffic areas, ensuring that both members and their belongings are safe at all times. It’s also important to strike a balance between visibility and privacy. It’s important to consider the placement of security cameras throughout the clubhouse. Cameras should be placed in strategic locations that provide an unobstructed view of all areas while also preserving member privacy. Furthermore, motion sensors and alarms can be installed to further deter potential intruders or unwelcome guests.
Cameras are great for helping to deter incidents but they don’t stop them. Having active staff that can be in many places at once. Always around. Attentive staff can help alleviate a lot of incidents.
When designing for privacy, it’s essential to create spaces that give members a sense of comfort and security without compromising their individual autonomy. This means ensuring that private areas are secure from prying eyes, allowing members to enjoy moments of solitude when needed.
Additionally, soundproofing can be used in certain sections such as meeting rooms or conference halls where sensitive conversations may take place. Proper lighting is also key; dimmer switches allow users to control the level of illumination at any given moment for added flexibility and comfort within the space.
When it comes to privacy, members should feel confident that their personal information is well-protected. Implementing robust cybersecurity measures is essential for safeguarding sensitive data, such as financial records or personal details. This includes encrypted networks, secure firewalls, and regular software updates.
Designing for privacy and security in golf clubhouse architecture is a delicate balancing act. By prioritizing member safety, implementing comprehensive security measures, and ensuring privacy, we can create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also provide peace of mind for all members.
On today’s episode, we explored how golf clubhouse design can prioritize member safety and privacy while maintaining great design and functionality. Thanks for listening, and don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations! If you would like to connect, reach out on fountain.fm.

Designing for the Local Community: How Golf Clubhouses Can Benefit the Surrounding Area

Episode 018
Welcome to “Experience in Golf Clubhouse Design”, a podcast that delves into the world of golf clubhouse architecture and interior design, uncovering the fascinating intricacies of human interaction and its profound impact on member lifestyles. Let’s immerse ourselves in the realm of architecture, exploring the concepts and details that pave the way for a successful golf clubhouse and resort experience, from proshop design to fitness and dining. In today’s episode, we’ll cover how golf clubhouses can benefit the community through local materials and job creation.
Today, we’re diving into the world of golf clubhouses and resorts, and how their design can actually have a positive impact on the surrounding community. It’s all about thinking local, folks!
When it comes to designing these beautiful clubhouses, architects and developers have started to realize the potential benefits for the local area. One way they’re doing this is by incorporating local materials. By using resources found nearby, not only can they ensure authenticity, but they also support local businesses and reduce transportation costs.
These decisions to support local can help create a sense of identity and community around the clubhouse. Local business owners enjoy contributing to local project. Not only are they more profitable they are able to contribute to exciting projects in their backyard.
Another way developers are making clubhouses more beneficial for the local area is by using them to serve multiple purposes. For example, some clubhouses offer spaces for special events such as weddings or birthday parties. This not only allows for extra income to sustain the service but also gives people from the local area a space to enjoy and celebrate.
Clubhouses have also become unique attractions for tourists who want to experience the culture of an area. By investing in architecture, local businesses can provide visitors with a memorable experience and allow them to learn more about their community.
But it doesn’t stop there. These clubhouses can also be key drivers in the economy by creating job opportunities for the local community. Every golf clubhouse and resort needs a staff to ensure optimal functioning, and local job creation is an important part of that. From hiring caddies to support staff, by collaborating with the area’s businesses and citizens, these clubhouses can give many people access to meaningful employment. From construction workers to maintenance staff and event planners, the possibilities are endless.
And let’s not forget about the power of partnerships. Golf clubhouses can form collaborations with local organizations, such as charities or schools, to create community programs and events. These initiatives not only bring people together but also provide additional benefits for the area.
So, the next time you step into a golf clubhouse or resort, take a moment to appreciate the thought and consideration that went into its design. Because behind those beautiful walls, there’s a community that’s being positively impacted. And that, my friends, is true design for the local community.
In today’s episode, we delved into how golf clubhouses can positively impact communities by utilizing local resources and creating employment opportunities – thanks for tuning in. If you have a question for the show please connect with us on fountain.fm. Catch you at the next one, and don’t forget to subscribe!

The Evolution of Golf Clubhouse Design: A Look Back at the History of Clubhouses and Resorts

Episode 017
Welcome to “Experience in Golf Clubhouse Design”, a podcast that delves into the world of golf clubhouse architecture and interior design, uncovering the fascinating intricacies of human interaction and its profound impact on member lifestyles. Let’s immerse ourselves in the realm of architecture, exploring the concepts and details that pave the way for a successful golf clubhouse and resort experience, from proshop design to fitness and dining. In today’s episode, we’ll cover examining the evolution of golf clubhouse design, discussing trends and innovations that have shaped the industry.
Hey there! Today, we’re going to take a trip down memory lane and dive into the fascinating world of golf clubhouse design. We’ll be exploring how these spaces have evolved over the years and the trends that have shaped the industry. So, grab your clubs and let’s get started!
Back in the day, golf clubhouses were more than just a place to grab a cold drink after a round. They were often lavish resorts, with grand architecture and stunning views. These historical clubhouses, with their ornate designs and opulent interiors, were symbols of prestige and luxury.
I wanted to dive into an interesting article I found on the subject. This article is from scottish golf history. It’s called the Oldest 19th hole. The article covers some of the oldest and most prestigious clubs. So let’s dive into it.
Club-houses of oldest golf clubs and early golf club-houses.
Part 1
The club-house buildings of the Royal Musselburgh, Royal Blackheath, and Glasgow golf clubs, whose clubhouse buildings are of historic interest in their own right.  The club-houses of the other old clubs are covered below in order of the date of the oldest extant club-house at the location.
The concept of a golf club took over a century to develop. Club-house facilities were not initially an essential part of their thinking. What was important was dining (and drinking) afterwards, mostly in local hostelries, of which the notable extant pubs are covered here in Part II Oldest 19th Hole Golf Pubs, Inns and Taverns. (which we will get to later
Almost all the club-houses of the old golf societies date from the middle to the end of the 19th century. Most look like private houses, not just because everything was built as a house in those days, but also to make them easy to sell if the club failed. The significant investment required to build a club-house frequently resulted in heated discussions, especially in the artisan clubs. Sometimes, a ‘new’ club had to be formed by those willing to contribute to a clubhouse, if the majority of members were disinclined to do so. For this reason, some successor clubs owe their existence, and even their name, to the provision of the club-house facility. So their history is more interesting than just a list of buildings and dates.
Bruntsfield Links
The longest serving golf club-house building in the world is the Golf Tavern at Bruntsfield Links. It has been in continuous use as a club-house since Jan 1852, by several clubs including Bruntsfield Links GS, Bruntsfield Allied GC, Edinburgh Thistle and Bruntsfield Short Hole GC. It was never owned by any of them. The Golf Tavern is the overlapping successor to Golfhall, where club golf began. Golfhall, under various names, had been a golf club-house continuously since July 1760 until Sept 1905. These clubhouses are now the subject of a new history published in 2017.
St Andrews
The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews didn’t build their own club-house until 1854, exactly 100 years after they were formed. It is the oldest club-house in continuous use owned by a golf club. It has subsequently been significantly extended and developed.
For two decades beforehand, they had used a building called the Union Parlour on Golf Place in common with other golfers. It has long since been demolished.
The other golf clubs in St Andrews did not acquire their club-houses until the beginning of the 20th century. The New Club (St Andrews) bought their’s in Links Road for £1,300 in 1902. In fact, getting a club-house was the reason why they were formed. The building is best known as the place where Old Tom Morris died in 1908 following a tragic accidental fall.
The St Andrews Golf Club, formerly the Mechanics, bought their Kirk Place club-house a few years later in 1905.
Monifieth
Monifieth has a beautiful row of club-houses, all facing the links and recently modernised. They were built on land acquired from the Panmure Hotel between 1903-07. Before these were built, there were two others. The first was a club-house constructed by the railway near the station, which is now gone.
The second clubhouse still exists. It was built in 1871 by the Panmure Golf Club, Monifieth’s first golf club, in Princes Street, behind the other club-houses and it is now used by the Ladies Panmure Golf Club. The Ladies club itself was not founded until 1893, but they inherited the old club-house when the Panmure club went north to create a new course at Barry in 1899. This is the third oldest extant golf club-house found so far after The Golf Tavern and the R&A club-house.
Because of falling membership, the other three clubs in Monifieth are now discussing a club-house amalgamation. Which one(s) will be left is not yet known.
Musselburgh
Apart from the Royal Musselburgh club, who began there, the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, the Royal Burgess and the Bruntsfield Links clubs all built club-houses at Musselburgh.
The club-houses of the Royal Musselburgh, Hon Company and Bruntsfield Links have now found other uses outlined here.
The Royal Burgess club-house is still in use as golf club-house. It was built in 1875 at the top of Links Place, now Balcarres Road. After the Burgess left in 1895, it became a café and later a dental practice. In 1993 the Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club purchased it and have been there ever since. As it has only been a golf club-house for about 45 years out of its 140 years existence, it still has 15 years to go to match the length of use as a golf club-house of the Honourable Company’s.
Perth
The present club-house of the Royal Perth Golfing Society was purchased in 1875, prior to which they used various addresses in the town including the House on the Green at 3 Waterside, which dates back to 1788 and is now converted into flats.
Elie and Earlsferry
The Golf Club-House Club at Elie completed the first part of their present clubhouse in 1877. Elie is one of those places where there was a club formed specially to build a club-house. Hence the rather unusual club name. The club members had previously used the golf club-makers’ sheds in the car park to store their clubs and the Golfers Tavern on Links Road (now called the 19th Hole) for eating and drinking. Earlsferry is a very old golf course and it is an odd-but-true fact that this is the oldest club-house, owned by the club that also owns its course.
North Berwick
The golfers at North Berwick initiated their first golf club with play on the west links 1832. They used marquees on competition days and the hospitality of the Dalrymple Arms 10 Quality Street, (now Zitto, an Italian wine bar.) The present club-house, which the North Berwick Golf Club acquired on merger with the New Club (North Berwick), dates to 1880.
The Tantallon Golf Club also based here have their own club-house just behind North Berwick’s. They used marquees on competition days as well. It was Robert Chambers, as Captain, who first suggested in 1884 that they should sell the club tent and get a club-house, but it was not until 1896 that they bought Point Garry Cottage, 32 Westgate, North Berwick.
Wimbledon
In London, the club-house of the Royal Wimbledon Golf Club pre-dates the lease on their present location. In 1880, they were given notice to quit the Iron Hut that they had been using since 1871. They got a temporary lease on Mrs Croft’s Cottage nearby, where they built a new ‘iron hut’.
Two years later, they got the opportunity to lease their present premises at Camp Cottage. When they moved they dismantled the 2nd iron hut at Mrs Croft’s and reassembled it at Camp Cottage, where it is now the Old Dining Room. So although the lease on their present club-house began in 1882, the club-house dates to 1880!
Wimbledon is one of the places where club-house problems shaped history, as it contributed to the schism which had taken place between the London Scottish and Royal Wimbledon.
The London Scottish did not build their own club-house until 1897.
Aberdeen
Aberdeen golf began in Aberdeen, further south than where Royal Aberdeen play today. The Club moved over the river to their present Balgownie course in 1888, leaving the other clubs playing the King’s Links, about half a mile north of where golf first began. The early meeting places were the usual pubs – Masson’s in Queen Street and later the Humphrey Hotel in Castle Street, now gone. The golfers kept their clubs at the club-maker’s shop in Constitution Street, located on the way to the course. Some time later they built a club-house at the top of Constitution Street, whose location can be seen on the map here beside the 18th green. It is now a house.
Carnoustie
Although they were not the first club formed at Carnoustie, the Dalhousie club built the first club-house in 1868. It was a magnificent feature on Links Parade. Sadly, the building was demolished in 1997 and the site is now occupied by four blocks of apartments.
The oldest extant club-house is that of Carnoustie Caledonia. In 1889, they spent £600 to build half of the present club-house (the ‘east-most’ half). It was a lot of money for an artisan club, so they designed it as a house to be able to sell it easily if the club fell into financial difficulties.  They need not have worried. The club prospered and three years last they spent another £600 building the other half.
Carnoustie Ladies’ present clubhouse was designed in 1895 and constructed at a cost of £510. The oldest club at Carnoustie is the Carnoustie Golf Club, but it was the last to start building a club-house in 1898. It has been considerably modernised to be present club-house on Links parade.
Leven
The old Innerleven club, now part of Leven, decided to move away from their Dubbieside course in 1868. To begin with they kept their clubs in the workshop of the local golf club-maker, Alex Patrick. They did not start the present club-house building until 1894. This was later taken over by the merged Leven golf clubs.
Scotscraig
Although the course at Scotscraig dates to 1817, the club went into abeyance for many years and, when they reformed, they used the local ‘fever’ hospital as their club-house. The present club-house only dates back to 1896.
Burntisland
The Dodhead course at Burntisland was not completed until 1898, and, as at Elie and North Berwick, there was a club formed specially to build the club-house, hence the name of the club, Burntisland Golf House Club. Unusually, the original Burntisland Golf Club still operates independently. In the early days, when the golfers played on the town links they would have used local pubs and one of these, The Star Pub at 73 High Street, dates to 17th century. (The date of The Golf Tavern on Burntisland Links has not been ascertained.)
Dunbar
At Dunbar, the present club-house was a major investment for the club in 1902. Before that, they were the fortunate recipients of the largesse of the Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe who provided the first clubhouse in 1871. The building is now a private house just on the right at the entrance to the course.
Montrose
Montrose is the only town with more golf club-houses that Musselburgh. There are eleven and you will need a map and a guide to find them all. Only two of them are in current use – Royal Montrose Mercantile and Caledonia – and they are located close to each other at the first tee, with another five previous club-houses nearby. Additionally, there are four others scattered throughout the town.
The oldest current club-house is the Royal Montrose at 1906. The Caledonia (1975) is just round the corner and three previous club-houses are situated just to the south – Mercantile Golf Lodge (1891),  Victoria Roo’s Leap (1895) and Mercantile (1904).
To begin with, the Montrose golfers met in the Star Inn, which still exists as the Star Hotel in New Wynd off the High Street. In 1866, the golfers rented Southfield House from the Council, before buying or building their own club-houses. Southfield became part of a private house, situated across Traill Drive from the Royal Montrose club-house and just seen in the picture above.
The old Caledonia golf house (1901) is just up Dorwood Road. To find the other former club-houses you need to go about half a mile south.
Gullane
It is an irony that if the Gullane golfers had held on to their first Golf Tavern, now a house beside the visitors’ car park, it would today be the oldest golf pub and club-house in the world. Instead of having the oldest, their present clubhouse is one of the youngest and only dates to 1929 when they redeveloped the site of the old Ladies club-house and land they owned to build a joint club-house.
In between these two club-houses, they built the Old Clubhouse, which they used from 1890 to 1929. It is now one of the best known and patronised golf pubs in the region.
Part 2
Most golf courses in the world are public. Only a third belong to private clubs, and this reflects the beginnings of golf when the Links were free to play and hospitality was in a local inn or tavern. There are many pubs in Scotland which call themselves a golf pub though few are as old as they look.
The most famous golf pub is, or rather was, Mrs Forman’s built in 1822 by George Forman’s father, who was the initial landlord. Later George himself took over and on his death in 1843, his widow Marion Forman ran it until her own death in 1888. It was during this period that it acquired its name and world wide fame in golfing circles. It is now closed and its future is currently in doubt.
That leaves a vacancy for the oldest golf pub in the world.
The Golf Tavern at Bruntsfield Links is certainly the longest serving golf club-house as there have been golf clubs using it continuously since 1852. It is a continuation of Golfhall which dates back to 1717. This means there has been a licensed pub and golf-clubhouse ‘on this site’ continuously since 1760. You can play golf there with clubs supplied by the pub. So it will be a bidder to be the oldest 19th hole, but there are other contenders, though they are either not as old or they do not have a continuous history to match ‘Mrs Forman’s’ or ‘The Golf Tavern’. A complete history of Golfhall and The Golf Tavern was published in 2017.
Earlsferry (Elie)
Before the Elie clubs built their clubhouse in 1877 they used the Golfers’ Tavern at 5 Links Road for their hospitality. Now called the 19th Hole, the building appears on the 1853 Ordnance Survey and the name, the Golfers’ Tavern, is shown on the 1893 map.
It was probably being used by the golfers shortly before or after the formation of the Elie and Earlsferry Golf Club in 1858. In the decades before this, the golfers of Earlsferry had combined with the Hercules Club who played the Dumbarnie Links. They had their own club-house, and used Mrs Ronald’s Inn in Colinsburgh.
Crail
The Golf Hotel in Crail is where the Crail Golf Club first met in 1786. Although never their club-house, it was used for post-match hospitality when they played at nearby Sauchope, now a caravan park.
The Crail club went into abeyance intermittently partly because of access problems at Sauchope, which was too small in any case. They moved to the Balcomie Links, 2 miles outside Crail, in 1895 and thereafter had a club-house there to use.
The Golf Hotel building dates to circa 1721 and is still open as a hotel, bar and restaurant.  It may not have been in continuous use by the golfers, but this is certainly the oldest extant building where the oldest golf related event took place. Its only other claim to golf fame is the place where the landlord lost two of the club’s ballot boxes.
Montrose
Early golfers at Montrose are recorded, from 1818, as frequenting the Star Hotel in New Wynd in Montrose. This was close to the first tee of the old Mid-links, which fell out of use as the land was built on and the links were pushed north. The golfers were probably still using it for dining even after they leased the Southfield House in 1866 to keep their clubs, until they built their own club-houses at the end of the century.
North Berwick
Golf at North Berwick was first played on the east links, but this area was needed for development. In 1832, they initiated their golf club with play on the west links. To begin with, they used marques on competition days and the hospitality of the Dalrymple Arms 10 Quality Street, which is now Zitto, an Italian wine bar.
Prestwick
The Red Lion at The Cross in Prestwick is renown as the place where the inaugural meeting took place in 1851 of the Prestwick Golf Club, who would become world famous as the initiators of the Open championship and co-sponsors of the Claret Jug, still played for today. Soon after the club built a club-house opposite. The pub itself is in need of some care and attention.
Gullane
‘The Old Clubhouse’ on East Links Road in Gullane was originally built as a half-timbered club-house by the Gullane Golf Club and opened in April 1890. It was soon extended.
After the Gullane Golf Club moved across town in 1929 to their present club-house, the building was used for various purposes. It is now a pub, again serving golfers since the present owners took over in 1988.
So, it’s clear that golf clubhouse design has some strong history. From opulent resorts to charming pubs, clubhouses are steeped in history and continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of golfers. It’s exciting to see what the future holds for these iconic spaces!
In this episode, we dove into the history of some golf clubhouses, exploring the past to see how it might shape the industry. Thanks for tuning in, remember to subscribe for more insightful discussions, and I’ll catch you at the next episode! If you have a question for the show follow us on fountain dot f m. Send us a question through the app. We look forward to hearing from you. See you in the next one.

Designing for Accessibility: How to Create Safe Spaces for All Members

Episode 016
Welcome to the “Experience in Golf Clubhouse Design” podcast, where we explore the fascinating world of golf clubhouse design and its impact on members’ lifestyles. Join us as we dive into the details of architecture, interior design concepts, and the key elements that lead to successful golf clubhouses and resorts. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, designer, or simply someone interested in learning more about clubhouse design, be sure to subscribe now to stay up to date on all our latest episodes and insights.
In today’s episode, titled “Designing for Accessibility: How to Create Safe Spaces for All Members,” we’ll discuss a crucial aspect of golf clubhouse design—creating spaces that are accessible and inclusive for all members. We’ll explore how thoughtful design choices can make a significant difference in ensuring that individuals with disabilities or mobility issues can enjoy the clubhouse experience to the fullest.
Before we delve into the specifics of designing for accessibility, it’s crucial to understand why this aspect holds such significance in clubhouse design. Accessibility goes beyond mere compliance with regulations; it’s about fostering inclusivity and ensuring that every member feels welcome and valued. When we prioritize accessibility in golf clubhouse design, we create spaces that cater to individuals with diverse abilities, allowing them to fully participate in and enjoy the clubhouse experience. It promotes a sense of belonging within the golfing community and breaks down barriers that may hinder some individuals from accessing and appreciating the facilities. By emphasizing accessibility, we contribute to a more equitable and inclusive golfing environment.
Ensuring accessibility in clubhouse design involves considering various factors. For example, entrances and pathways should be designed with mobility in mind, providing smooth and unobstructed routes for individuals using mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers. Additionally, golf clubhouses should incorporate features such as accessible parking spaces, ramps, elevators, and wide doorways to ensure easy navigation for everyone. By providing accessible amenities, including restrooms and seating areas, we create a more inclusive environment that accommodates individuals with different needs. It’s essential to recognize that accessible design is not an afterthought but an integral part of the overall clubhouse experience.
Designing for accessibility also extends beyond physical infrastructure. It involves creating an inclusive culture within the golfing community. This can be achieved by promoting awareness and understanding among members about the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities. By fostering an inclusive mindset, we create an environment where all members are respected and supported, regardless of their abilities. Accessibility in golf clubhouse design is a powerful way to break down societal barriers and ensure that everyone has equal opportunities to enjoy the game and the clubhouse facilities.
Now that we recognize the significance of accessibility, let’s explore some key considerations when designing golf clubhouses for all members. From entrances and pathways to amenities and facilities, there are several aspects to address. We’ll discuss the importance of accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and wide doorways to ensure easy navigation. Additionally, we’ll explore inclusive restroom facilities, seating areas, and technology adaptations that enhance the clubhouse experience for individuals with disabilities or mobility issues.
When it comes to designing accessible golf clubhouses, several key considerations should be taken into account. One crucial aspect is the layout and circulation within the clubhouse. It’s essential to ensure that pathways, corridors, and common areas are wide enough to accommodate wheelchair users and individuals with mobility aids. Ramps and elevators should be strategically placed to provide access to all levels of the clubhouse, enabling individuals with disabilities to navigate seamlessly. Designers should also pay attention to the height and positioning of countertops, tables, and other surfaces to ensure they are reachable for individuals in wheelchairs.
Restroom facilities play a vital role in creating accessible clubhouses. Designers should incorporate spacious and well-equipped accessible restrooms that comply with relevant accessibility standards. These facilities should have features such as grab bars, adequate maneuvering space, and accessible sinks, allowing individuals with disabilities to use them independently and comfortably. Additionally, incorporating gender-neutral or family restrooms can further enhance inclusivity by accommodating various needs.
Technology can also play a significant role in creating accessible clubhouses. From touchscreen interfaces to audio guides, incorporating assistive technology can greatly enhance the clubhouse experience for individuals with disabilities. For example, digital displays with adjustable font sizes or text-to-speech capabilities can make information more accessible to individuals with visual impairments. By leveraging technology, designers can provide innovative solutions that bridge gaps and enable all members to engage with clubhouse amenities and services.
To achieve truly inclusive golf clubhouse designs, it’s essential to collaborate with accessibility experts and consultants. In this segment, we’ll highlight the benefits of engaging professionals who specialize in accessibility to ensure compliance with regulations, incorporate best practices, and go beyond basic requirements. We’ll explore how their expertise can contribute to innovative design solutions that cater to a diverse range of needs.
Collaboration with accessibility experts and consultants is crucial when designing accessible golf clubhouses. These professionals bring specialized knowledge and expertise in the field of accessibility, ensuring that designs go beyond basic compliance and truly meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. By engaging accessibility experts from the early stages of the design process, designers can benefit from their insights and recommendations, resulting in more effective and inclusive solutions.
Accessibility experts can help navigate the complex web of accessibility regulations and guidelines. They stay up to date with the latest standards and ensure that designs adhere to local accessibility requirements. By working closely with these experts, designers can gain a deeper understanding of accessibility best practices, ensuring that all aspects of the clubhouse, from entrances to amenities, are designed to be inclusive and accessible to everyone.
Moreover, accessibility experts can provide valuable input regarding the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. They can offer guidance on specific design elements, such as the selection of appropriate materials, lighting choices, and acoustics, that contribute to an inclusive environment. Their expertise in universal design principles can result in innovative solutions that benefit all members, not just those with disabilities. By collaborating with accessibility experts, designers can create golf clubhouses that set new benchmarks for accessibility and serve as models for the industry
Now, let’s shift our focus to some inspirational examples of golf clubhouses that have successfully prioritized accessibility in their design. The article I wanted to discuss today demonstrates how thoughtful and inclusive design choices can transform clubhouses into spaces that cater to the needs of all members, regardless of their abilities. By highlighting these success stories, we aim to inspire listeners and encourage further advancements in accessibility within the golf clubhouse design industry.
This is an article from British Columbia Golf. By Leslie Dunning. The article is titled: Ideas To Make Your Course More Accessible
“People with disabilities are people first. Each of us knows someone who has difficulty with access, due to a congenital condition or because they have lost some ability because of illness, injury or age,” said Bel Jan. “The opportunity to enjoy golf provides wonderful social, recreational and healthful experiences for everyone. A welcoming and accessible golf facility can benefit economically through increased food and beverage, pro-shop sales and fees, as well as from the satisfaction of providing a valuable service.”
Obstacles can present barriers to people with disabilities in many aspects of their lives. Bel Jan believes the biggest obstacle may be that we are not comfortable in knowing how to treat people with disabilities. It is essential that everyone at a golf facility be trained to be aware of a person with a disability and to feel comfortable assisting them.
When in doubt, Bel Jan encourages using common customer courtesy. Because degrees of impairments vary, she suggests asking people with a disability if they need help before attempting to assist them, and then asking how you may assist. For formal training, Bel Jan has found that coaching done by people who have disabilities can be helpful.
“The opportunity to enjoy golf provides wonderful social, recreational and healthful experiences for everyone. A welcoming and accessible golf facility can benefit economically through increased food and beverage, pro-shop sales and fees, as well as from the satisfaction of providing a valuable service.” – Jan Bel Jan, Jan Bel Jan Golf Course Design
The range of disabilities is very broad and, while there are laws and codes to address building accessibility, foresighted golf facility operators can learn how to better accommodate golfers with a disability. Proper signage that directs patrons to the facility’s goods and services is beneficial to everyone. Golf course operators should ensure easy access to at least one teeing area per hole.
Creating additional tees, in a safe and accessible place, can meet this need. If readily achievable (with not much difficulty or expense), unobstructed golf cart access should be provided to all areas to be reached by the golfer. Golf cart paths should provide a modest slope for motorized vehicles, including for regular and single rider golf carts.
Ropes and GPS limits on carts can be barriers for those who need to get closer to the green for safety or for ease of access. Both can be adjusted – ropes can be lowered and replaced, and GPS units can be programmed for a specific cart. Red cart flags permit closer proximity to tees and greens and can help to improve access and speed of play.
Consider making a map of accessible routes that may include accessible tees, areas of the course to be avoided and bunkers that may be difficult to access or egress.
Another consideration on the course is providing accessible washrooms. If permanent facilities are not available, accessible port-a-potties can meet the need. Also, consider the heights and locations of water and other materials around the course. Where there are steep slopes or difficult-to-access bunkers, the facility can establish the use of the “Modified Rules of Golf for Players with Disabilities” developed by the R&A and USGA.
These Modified Rules permit a safe drop area away from the slope or outside the bunker, as well as other accommodations. When course renovations are undertaken, it is important to consider how to make the facility barrier-free.
Should a golf club or practice range want to encourage people with a disability to enjoy the game, inviting adult or children’s groups for clinics may inspire new golfers. Become familiar with programs in your area for people with disabilities. A golf facility could also establish a relationship with a rehabilitation hospital as part of their community outreach.
Golf can aid significantly in recovery through an outdoor experience, with a helpful focus on hand-eye coordination, improved balance, strength and flexibility as well as sense of purpose. All of these contribute to the wellbeing of the person with the disability as well as to family, friends and companions.
Finally, Bel Jan recommends that golf facilities audit themselves for accessibility, programs and training. They should include information on their website to promote their accessibility, as well noting any instruction, clinics or programs that may interest people with disabilities and their families.
“An ‘invitation’ is always a great way to make people feel welcome to your course,” said Bel Jan.
Glenn Babcock is the president of the Ontario Visually Impaired Golfers Association, serves as a director on the board of Blind Golf Canada and sits on the Human Resources Committee of Golf Canada. Babcock was born with his visual impairment. His father was a golf professional, so Babcock grew up around golf courses and had the benefit of learning to golf from a young age.
He says that some golfers are born blind or visually impaired, while others have lost their sight due to injury or illness, or simply as they age. For those who have lost their sight, being able to continue an activity that they enjoy is important to their physical, social and emotional wellbeing.
There are many golfers whose vision loss requires them to seek assistance to play the game. Their “guide” may be a fellow golfer, a non-golfing friend or a family member committed to helping them enjoy the game. The guide helps the golfer get safely around the course, lines them up for each shot and provides information on distances and obstacles and, of course, the guide must also find the ball!
Staff at golf courses should understand this partnership of golfer and guide. Starters and marshals should be made aware of the presence of a “walker.” Groups may be slower, as it takes more time to set up a golfer who is blind or visually impaired. Babcock recommends asking the golfer about their speed of play and how much time they need for setup with their guide and then adjust the group size if necessary.
Some courses have recognized the challenges in arranging a game and offer incentives to encourage blind and visually impaired people to play. Two-for-one rates for the golfer and their guide, even if the guide is playing, are offered by some. Others offer a discount and one club even offers a complimentary nine-hole round for two golfers, and their guides, each week on Monday afternoons.
Kristian Hammerback is the president of the Canadian Amputee Golf Association and is a member of Golf Canada’s Amateur Competitions Committee. As a golfer who was born missing a limb, golf provided him with a childhood activity he could participate in with his friends.
He believes that it is important to provide golfing opportunities for people who are missing limbs or with reduced mobility and that it can be instrumental in getting back into life after an injury or illness.
Golfers with missing limbs or limited mobility may have challenges getting around the course and getting to the ball. They don’t like to play long rounds or slow play down for other golfers. Using carts or “solo rider” units, providing red flags and being lenient with cart rules will help to speed their play.
Hammerback, who has helped organize several tournaments for amputee golfers, has found that golf courses are always very helpful and “bend over backwards” to give the competitors a great experience. He encourages golf courses to promote golf participation for all, get involved with organizations for people with disabilities to offer golf clinics and partner with local rehabilitation facilities to provide golf opportunities as part of the recovery process.
Alain Turpin, the executive director of the Canadian Deaf Sports Association, says that the biggest challenge is communicating with deaf and hard of hearing golfers.
“Sometimes, it is difficult for pro-shop employees to communicate with deaf golfers who speak poorly or can’t speak and use language signs,” he said.
He recommends speaking face-to-face with deaf or hard of hearing golfers and writing simple messages on a sheet of paper to communicate.
When golfers who are deaf or hard of hearing take part in a sanctioned competition, it is important for the host committee to reserve a sign language interpreter. It makes a big difference for the deaf golfer to feel included and equal. As well, creating awareness for fellow competitors, competition officials and facility staff of the importance of face-to-face and written communication is essential.
Joe Kiraly, the outreach and communications manager for Soldier On, a program of the Canadian Armed Forces Transition Group, attests to the impact that golf brings to the recoveries of veterans.
“Golf has been a surprising addition to my life following an injury resulting in physical limitations and loss of personal identity,” said Kiraly. “I saw how golf helped others and decided to try it myself.”
The Soldier On golf program, one of its most robust initiatives, is championed by Michael Feyko, who works at Royal Oaks Golf Club in New Brunswick. Feyko is a PGA of Canada teaching professional and a former soldier who used golf as an integral part of his own recovery from injury. The program began as a grassroots initiative to support Armed Forces personnel suffering loss of ability, loss of identity or loss of career and was found to help improve mental and physical health.
Kiraly reports golf clubs being very welcoming to ill and injured men and women. Many veterans who have experienced
sensory or mobility loss, or who have been suffering emotionally, have found golf to be an important component of their healing. With the support of the golf community, the Soldier On golf program is continuing to grow across the country, with three week-long camps planned in 2020.
While you may not have the opportunity to host the Invictus Games, you can make your club welcoming and accessible to all golfers and potential golfers. We all know people with a disability. Providing them the chance to learn the game or continue an activity they enjoy following the loss of ability is tremendously beneficial to them, their families and your club!
By showcasing these inspirational examples, we hope to inspire designers, architects, and golf club owners to prioritize accessibility in their projects. These success stories demonstrate that creating accessible and inclusive golf clubhouses is not only a legal and ethical responsibility but also a way to enhance the overall experience for all members, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity within the golfing community.
That brings us to the end of today’s episode on designing for accessibility in golf clubhouses. We’ve explored the importance of creating safe spaces for all members and discussed key considerations, the value of collaboration with accessibility experts, and showcased some inspiring examples. Remember, designing with accessibility in mind not only benefits individuals with disabilities or mobility issues but enhances the experience for all members.
Thank you for joining us on “Experience in Golf Clubhouse Design.” If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast for future episodes exploring the fascinating world of golf clubhouse design. Stay up to date on the latest insights and join us as we continue to explore the impact of design on members’ lifestyles. Follow us on fountain dot f m and support the show by sending us comments and questions. Thanks for listening and see you in the next episode. Support the show and comment when following us on fountain dot f m. see you soon.

The Art of Renovation: How to Update a Golf Clubhouse Without Losing Its Charm

Episode 015
Welcome to the “Experience in Golf Clubhouse Design” podcast, where we explore the fascinating world of golf clubhouse design and its impact on members’ lifestyles. Join us as we dive into the details of architecture, interior design concepts, and the key elements that lead to successful golf clubhouses and resorts. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, designer, or simply someone interested in learning more about clubhouse design, be sure to subscribe now to stay up to date on all our latest episodes and insights. In today’s episode, we’ll cover updating golf clubhouses while preserving their charm, including successful renovations and budget-friendly tips.
Today, we’re diving into the fascinating realm of golf clubhouse renovations. Picture this: a stunning clubhouse, filled with history, elegance, and stories of countless games played. It’s a place where golfers come together to relax, socialize, and celebrate their shared love for the sport. But as time goes by, even the most charming clubhouses can benefit from a little refresh. The key is to update and renovate without losing that unique charm and character that makes them so special.
Preserving the clubhouse’s essence is crucial. You want to honor its history and the memories that have been created within those walls. So, how do you go about updating a golf clubhouse while keeping its distinctive personality intact? Well, it’s not as daunting as it sounds.
First and foremost, let’s talk about the importance of respecting the original design. Clubhouses are often architectural gems, boasting a specific style and aesthetic. So, any updates must be in harmony with that design. One way to achieve this is by selecting materials, colors, and finishes that complement the existing features.
The key to a successful renovation lies in striking a balance between past and present. You want to infuse modern elements and amenities that enhance the clubhouse’s functionality while maintaining the integrity of its original design. Think about integrating things like improved lighting, updated seating areas, or even technology to elevate the overall experience.
Now, let’s take a moment to explore some remarkable examples of clubhouse renovations that accomplished this delicate balance. These projects took on the challenge of updating and refreshing the space while preserving its unique identity.
In one instance, a historic golf clubhouse underwent an extensive renovation where the original architecture was maintained. The designers focused on enhancing the clubhouse’s amenities while still paying homage to its original charm. The result? A refreshing space that exudes history and modern appeal.
Today I wanted to dive into an Article on Club and Resort Business. This article is titled “Inside Charlotte Country Club’s Historic Clubhouse Renovation” by Joe Barks.
Joe provides some interesting insights into the renovation of a historic club. The challenges and unique opportunities. So, let’s get into the article.
For most of its first 100 years, Charlotte CC provided exemplary service despite its clubhouse’s limitations. Now it has a building that properly supports its first-class reputation, inside and out.
Recognizing the special nature of the service experience at Charlotte Country Club has always been easy—anyone who comes to the oldest club in North Carolina’s largest city is immediately struck by the genuine and gracious hospitality that is extended to every member and guest.
But recognizing, and fixing, the many challenges that Charlotte CC’s staff had to overcome to provide its exemplary service took a little longer—almost 100 years, in fact.
Long before he became the club’s Chief Executive Officer in 2003, Damon DiOrio, first saw the service obstacles and inefficiencies that the club’s staff had to work around while he was employed as a college student in the Charlotte CC clubhouse, which had been built in 1931.
The impediments came in many forms:
access-related challenges from an inconveniently positioned elevator, narrow corridors, and dark, steep stairways that caused unnecessary steps and congestion for members and staff alike;
back-of-the-house barriers, including a poorly planned loading dock area, virtually nonexistent storage, and a total of seven different elevation changes when navigating employee areas. Collectively, these issues had led many vendors to drop Charlotte CC as a customer, because of the difficulties involved with making deliveries to the club;
employee comfort issues, caused by leaks and odors from the roof and plumbing lines, cramped offices, outdated equipment in kitchens and other areas, employee “break” rooms and bathrooms that were really just broom and water closets, and musty and moldy walls and floors throughout the building. All of these combined to continually try the patience and sap the energy of even the most enthusiastic employees;
most troubling of all, there were the structural problems that raised real questions about whether Charlotte CC’s clubhouse would soon fall in on itself:
a water-cooling system that met only 40% of total cooling needs and had to be supplemented by rented portable air-conditioning units to make the Charlotte summers bearable;
an old boiler, in the center of a frequently flooded basement, that posed a clear fire hazard;
ductwork coated with inches of built-up dust and mold;
out-of-code electrical fixtures and wiring;
corroded pipes that had lost over half their capacity;
crumbling roof and ceiling material that had led to leaks being experienced in every room of the clubhouse (in the Men’s Card Room, the “fix” was to put a metal pan in the ceiling that was then drained outside with a garden hose);
rapidly advancing deterioration within the jumble of wood frames, brick, steel, structural tile, hollow terracotta and concrete blocks that, after a series of haphazard building modifications over the year, now comprised the building’s walls and “support” structures.
But even while saddled with these infrastructure burdens, Charlotte had not only survived, but grown and prospered through the years—a testament to its solid service tradition that DiOrio, who had come back to the club and worked his way up through several management positions after finishing college and then working for the Disney organization, took to an even higher level as its C E O.
And because the club’s classic, colonnaded exterior had always stayed in good enough shape to still stand, like a Hollywood-lot front, and belie the barely functioning shell behind it, members weren’t aware of how badly neglected the unseen parts of the building had become, or of how much extra effort the staff was having to expend to continue to do their jobs so well.
DiOrio knew, however, that he, his staff, the clubhouse and the club were all on borrowed and rapidly vanishing time. With Charlotte CC’s 100th anniversary set to arrive in 2010, he also knew his most important executive decision as CEO would be to immediately start a process to not only rescue the building and upgrade its functionality, but also to position the club so it could continue to thrive in its second century.
“When our clubhouse opened in 1931, the club generated $121,000 in annual revenue and employed 42 staff members,” DiOrio says. “Over seventy years later, the same building, in much worse shape after decades of deferred maintenance, was the base for an $11 million operation with 220 employees.
“There had been dozens of clubhouse ‘renovation’ projects over the years,” DiOrio adds, “but they were all piecemeal and patchwork efforts, without much thought given to documentation or coordination. Prior to 2003, Charlotte Country Club had never had a long-range, strategic capital plan.”
For outside expertise that could help him put together such a plan and then set it in motion, DiOrio turned to Baltimore-based Chambers. The firm is well-known for its architectural and design work in the private club market, but DiOrio wanted Chambers to serve as a full partner, with a role that would also include formulating and facilitating a master plan, financial modeling, membership communications through town-hall meetings, and conducting the interviewing and selection process for the project architect, contractor, construction supervisor and other team members.
DiOrio and Chambers then worked with a task force created by Charlotte C C’s Board of Governors to begin a comprehensive review of the club’s facilities, including engineering studies of the clubhouse’s mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. A new planning committee used the results of that review, and input from a 2005 member survey, to begin to develop the master plan.
As the plan took shape, Charlotte C C’s members fueled its momentum through active participation and support—especially as they became more aware, after taking behind-the-scenes clubhouse tours and seeing what the engineering studies revealed, of just how precarious the situation had become.
While the club’s by-laws do not require membership approval for capital expenditures, polls taken as the master plan unfolded showed that 90% of Charlotte C C’s members endorsed what grew to be a $32.4 million project. Just as significantly, over 70% provided input to surveys that helped shape the plan’s direction and specific components, and nearly a quarter of the club’s 1,020 members got actively involved on project-related committees or focus groups.
The first results from the master plan (which, beyond the clubhouse and golf course, also included improvements to the club’s golf practice facilities, greeting center, and separate youth activities center and boys/girls locker rooms) were unveiled with the 2007 restoration by Ron Prichard of Charlotte C C’s Donald Ross course.
Attention then turned to the clubhouse, which would be kept open as construction was completed in phases on its three levels. While the reconstruction aspects proved even more formidable than anticipated as the work began—over 30,000 lbs. of steel were needed just to provide enough temporary load support for the badly weakened structure—this was always as much of a restoration as a renovation. As the dozens of coats of paint and other cover-ups and temporary fixes that had been applied over the years were stripped away, specialized craftsmen and artisans were brought in to help properly restore the original moldings and millwork, chandeliers, murals, antique furniture and other priceless pieces so they could all once again be a full, unhidden part of Charlotte C C’s special history and grandeur.
At the same time, no attention to detail was spared as the project incorporated many new features and improvements—extra service closets, audio/visual touchpanels, centralized climate controls—that could now properly complement and assist the staff’s service mission. “This project was as much about creating the right operational efficiencies, and providing the tools and abilities needed to provide a first-class service experience, as it was about restoring our treasured clubhouse,” DiOrio says.
Charlotte C C’s members have many new features of their own to enjoy in the clubhouse as a result of the project, such as the new lounge area with staffed bar in the men’s locker room that quickly proved to be immensely popular and a source of significant new food-and-beverage revenues. But another key goal, DiOrio says, was to not have the project overwhelm members with a lot of new things to get used to.
“We didn’t want them to feel they had walked into a new club,” he says, “If that had been the case, the project would have failed. Instead, we wanted members to come in and immediately feel happy that they had their same club back, better than ever, and ready for them and their families to use and enjoy for many more generations.”
Since the restoration work was finished right before Thanksgiving 2009, DiOrio says, the club has already seen encouraging results both in operational savings (energy costs down 18%, significant reduction in food costs) and revenue enhancements (casual dining up 19%). He is just as pleased that his staff is now “consistently hitting” service measures, such as 12-minute food-ticket times, that were much harder to achieve around the pre-restoration obstacles.
But this certainly shouldn’t be surprising, given Charlotte C C’s history of delivering service excellence, regardless of the conditions. Even amid all of the construction, reports Rick Snellinger, CEO of Chambers, Charlotte C C took the time, after work on the upper level had been completed, to “do something that’s never happened in any project I’ve ever worked on.
“All of the professional companies involved with the project were invited, with guests, for an incredible wine dinner, so we could show our spouses what we’d been working on,” Snellinger reports. “At the end of the dinner, the spotlights came on, the staff and kitchen help came out, and they applauded us.
“It was an experience that raised the hair on the back of your neck,” he says. “And then after we finished the lower level, they did the same thing for us again.”
Once again proving that recognizing what’s special about the service at Charlotte C C has never been difficult—and now it will be easier than ever to spot, for the next hundred or so years.
So, as we wrap up, let’s remember the valuable lesson we’ve learned today: when updating any clubhouse or property, preserving its charm and character is paramount. Whether it’s a golf clubhouse or a historic building, it’s the unique elements that make it stand out. By embracing the past and infusing it with a touch of modernity, we can create spaces that truly capture the essence of both old and new.
Today’s episode explored the topic of updating golf clubhouses while preserving their charm, with insights on successful renovations and budget-friendly tips – thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe for more! To support the show please follow on fountain.fm. Send us questions and comments, we would love to hear from you. See you in the next episode!

Creating a Luxury Experience: Designing High-End Golf Clubhouses and Resorts

Episode 014
Welcome to the “Experience in Golf Clubhouse Design” podcast, where we explore the fascinating world of golf clubhouse design and its impact on members’ lifestyles. Join us as we dive into the details of architecture, interior design concepts, and the key elements that lead to successful golf clubhouses and resorts. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, designer, or simply someone interested in learning more about clubhouse design, be sure to subscribe now to stay up to date on all our latest episodes and insights. In today’s episode, we’ll cover designing luxury golf clubhouses and resorts for premium member experiences.
Welcome to today’s episode! We’re excited to delve into the world of luxury golf clubhouse and resort design, where we’ll examine the ways expert architects design spaces to create that premium experience for members. The idea behind designing a luxury experience, whether it be for a high-end golf club or resort, is to provide members with a one-of-a-kind, unparalleled experience. The spaces need to transport guests to a different world, one that’s far from their everyday norm. A luxurious experience starts with dramatic spaces that evoke a strong emotional response. Architects, designers, and builders work together to create a captivating space and build features that set the standards for premium services. These experts believe that a luxurious golf clubhouse isn’t just a place to tee off but a place to surround yourself with opulence, class, and sophistication. Everything from the quality of the surface of the golf course, the modern clubhouse design, and the facilities provided must be top-notch, leaving no room for compromise. Join us as we explore the world of golf clubhouse and resort design in the journey of creating the most luxurious experience possible for members.
Golf clubs and resorts have the potential to create an undeniably luxurious experience for their members. Designing a clubhouse or resort with this purpose in mind requires careful consideration of the design elements, such as furniture, materials, colors, textures, and lighting. Every aspect of the space should be thoughtfully designed to produce a feeling of comfort, beauty, and sophistication.
In order to create a luxury golf clubhouse or resort experience, designers should focus on the details. The furniture and materials used in the space should be of high quality and carefully chosen to create a sense of luxury. Colors should be kept neutral while textures should be inviting and tactile. Lighting is key; soft lighting can create an intimate atmosphere, while strategically placed accent lighting can create dramatic highlights.
These design elements come together to form a cohesive and inviting atmosphere, one that encourages guests to stay and relax in the space. In order for a luxury golf clubhouse or resort experience to be successful, every detail should be carefully considered and executed with precision. With thoughtful design, designers can create an unforgettable environment where members can truly enjoy their time.
By keeping these design principles in mind, designers can create a luxurious experience that members will want to return to again and again. With the right combination of design elements and attention to detail, golf clubs and resorts can provide a unique and unforgettable experience for their members.
Creating a luxury experience for golfers starts with the architecture and design of golf clubhouses and resorts. By crafting an atmosphere that evokes a strong emotional response, designers can create an immersive environment that will make guests feel as if they are in a world apart from the everyday. From plush seating areas to extravagant detailing on walls, floors, and ceilings, designers should strive to create a space that is uniquely luxurious.
By manipulating the various forms of light – natural, artificial, and accent lighting – designers can highlight certain areas of the clubhouse or resort and create inviting atmospheres. Additionally, thoughtful use of materials such as wood, stone, metal, and fabric can create an inviting ambience that will draw in guests.
Designers should strive to evoke a sense of exclusivity in their clubhouses and resorts. By carefully selecting furniture and other details, such as artwork or sculptures, designers can create a space that feels exclusive and special – one that only those with a certain level of wealth and status will be able to access. With these elements in place, clubhouses and resorts can become destinations that offer a truly luxurious experience.
By taking into account the power of design and creating spaces that evoke strong emotional responses, designers will be able to craft luxurious golf clubhouse and resort experiences that will leave guests feeling pampered and privileged. And in turn, these establishments will attract the business of affluent golfers who want to enjoy a premium experience.
Creating a luxurious space for golf clubhouses and resorts requires a careful selection of quality materials to make sure the space is captivating for members. Materials such as marble, granite, copper, brass, and wood are popular choices due to their timelessness and ability to create classic or modern interior designs that provide a sense of elegance. In addition, incorporating details such as high-end lighting and custom artwork can further elevate the look and feel of the space. By selecting materials that are durable, visually appealing, and timeless in design, clubhouses and resorts can create a luxurious atmosphere that will stand out from the competition.
The use of natural materials is also gaining popularity in luxury golf clubhouse designs. Incorporating natural stone and wood finishes can bring a sense of warmth to the space, while also connecting it to the surrounding nature. Incorporating elements such as water features and plants can further integrate the clubhouse and resort with its environment, creating an inviting atmosphere that members will find appealing.
By carefully selecting quality materials, golf clubhouses and resorts can be designed to create an unforgettable luxury experience for members. By taking the time to consider the design elements and selecting materials that are visually appealing, timeless in design, and connect with nature, clubhouses and resorts can create a captivating space that will leave a lasting impression on members.
When designing a luxury golf clubhouse or resort, modern design elements can play an important role in creating visual appeal. Bold geometric shapes and vibrant colors can create a sense of sophistication and glamor. Additionally, strategic lighting can be used to highlight certain features, such as a stunning piece of art or an impressive architectural feature.
Incorporating modern design elements can also help to ensure that the clubhouse or resort looks and feels current and up-to-date. This is especially important in a rapidly changing world where technology advances quickly and styles come and go. By incorporating contemporary elements, designers can create a space that feels timeless and relevant, ensuring that members always have a luxurious and enjoyable experience.
Modern design elements can also be used to create a sense of visual unity throughout the space. By using common materials, colors, and shapes in different areas of the clubhouse or resort, designers can bring cohesiveness to the overall look and feel of the space. This can help to create a sense of harmony and luxury that is often lacking in less modern designs.
By harnessing the power of modern design, designers can transform any clubhouse or resort into an experience of refined sophistication and unmatched luxury. With the right elements, it’s possible to create a space that is inviting, memorable, and truly unforgettable.
Creating a luxury experience for members of golf clubs and resorts requires the design of elegant, high-end spaces. These spaces should be carefully crafted to provide a premier aesthetic and atmosphere, allowing members to feel pampered and relaxed.
The key to creating this luxury experience is offering premium services and amenities. These could include providing valet parking services, gourmet dining options, private lounges, spa facilities, high-end retail outlets or concierge service. All of these can help create the ultimate golfing experience for members.
Additionally, by providing exclusive access to unique activities and experiences, such as private lessons with a golf pro or VIP events at the resort, members can feel special and engaged.
Creating a luxury experience through golf clubhouses and resorts begins with unique event planning. Special events like tournaments, cocktail nights, member appreciation days, and holiday celebrations can be crafted to enhance the overall atmosphere and reinforce the brand of the club or resort. Adding unique activities for members to enjoy like virtual reality golfing, custom golf lessons from professional players, or wine tastings can also increase the value of a membership.
For members who are looking for relaxation and rejuvenation, resorts can offer special spa treatments such as massage therapy, facials, manicures/pedicures, or body treatments. Other options include reservation-only restaurants with gourmet menus prepared by top chefs and private cabanas that offer all-day poolside pampering.
By providing special events and activities, clubs and resorts can create a luxurious experience that will keep members coming back for more. They will be able to enjoy the unique features of their club or resort with friends and family, making lasting memories that they can cherish for years to come.
Golfing is often seen as a luxurious hobby and clubs and resorts aspiring to the highest levels of service and style are always looking to create a premium experience for their members. When designing high-end golf clubhouses and resorts, every detail counts and it’s important to ensure that all elements come together to create an atmosphere of sophistication, luxury, and excellence.
The design of the clubhouse or resort must be carefully considered to ensure that it reflects the desired atmosphere. Attention should be paid to details such as materials, colors, furniture, artwork, lighting, and landscaping in order to create a visually pleasing environment that is inviting and comfortable for guests.
It’s also important to consider more intangible elements such as the customer service experience. The staff should be well-trained and knowledgeable, creating a feeling of care and attention to each guest’s needs.
The design, décor, amenities, and services must all come together to create an unforgettable experience that will keep members coming back time and again. With careful consideration of every detail, luxury golf clubhouses and resorts can be designed to create a premium experience that is unparalleled.
By understanding how to design luxury golf clubhouses and resorts, operators can craft an exclusive experience for their members and ensure that customers keep coming back for more. The details matter and the end result should be a space that feels like a haven of sophistication, style, and exclusivity.
Today’s episode reviewed the modern design principles behind creating upscale golf clubs and luxurious resort facilities to satisfy high-end client’s every need. Thanks for tuning in, and catch you at the next episode – don’t forget to subscribe! Support the show by following on fountain.fm. Send us questions and support. See you in the next one!

Revolutionizing Golf Clubhouse Design: Exploring Technology for an Elevated Member Experience

Episode 013
Welcome to the “Experience in Golf Clubhouse Design” podcast, where we explore the fascinating world of golf clubhouse design and its impact on members’ lifestyles. Join us as we dive into the details of architecture, interior design concepts, and the key elements that lead to successful golf clubhouses and resorts. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, designer, or simply someone interested in learning more about clubhouse design, be sure to subscribe now to stay up to date on all our latest episodes and insights. In today’s episode, we’ll cover the latest innovations in technology used in golf clubhouse design to improve the member experience.
Today we’re going to talk about something that is near and dear to the hearts of many golf enthusiasts – clubhouse design. Very often, golf is about much more than just hitting a small ball around a big field. It’s about the overall experience, and part of that experience comes from the clubhouse. That’s why we’re going to explore how technology is being incorporated into clubhouse design in innovative ways. We’ll delve into the latest innovations and how they can enhance the member experience. After all, golf is all about improving your game, and the right technology can make that happen both on and off the course.
From automated score tracking to computer-assisted lighting and heating systems, technology is transforming the way golfers interact with and experience their clubhouses. We’ll talk about how such advances can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and make it easier for members to access the features they enjoy most. We’ll also discuss how new technologies are making it possible for clubs to create a more personalized experience for their members, from interactive displays to virtual golf lessons.
Finally, we’ll look at the future of clubhouse design and how technology can be utilized to provide an even better member experience in the years ahead. By investing in new technologies now, clubs can ensure that they are ready to reap the rewards well into the future.
For all the latest developments in clubhouse design and technology, join us on our journey through the world of golf. You won’t want to miss it!
Automated Score Tracking: This technology allows golfers to easily track their scores on a real-time basis. Not only does it provide golfers with greater accuracy and speed of tracking, but also allows club pros to better monitor progress and performance of members.
Automated Score Tracking is a revolutionary technology that provides members with an improved and more efficient experience. By utilizing advanced software and hardware, golfers can now keep track of their scores in real-time, providing greater accuracy and precision than ever before. This technology also offers club pros the opportunity to closely examine the performance of each member on an individual basis, helping them to better identify areas for improvement.
As a result of Automated Score Tracking, golfers and club pros alike enjoy increased efficiency in game play and operations. Members can now track their scores with greater accuracy and receive more personalized feedback from club professionals. Similarly, clubhouse operations are improved due to reduced latency when inputting data into the system.
Ultimately, Automated Score Tracking is a technology that revolutionizes golf clubhouse design and offers a more enjoyable experience for all involved. With the increased accuracy and efficiency in tracking member scores, as well as improved operations on the backend, this technology brings golfers closer to achieving their goals and provides club professionals with more opportunities to better serve their members.
See some interesting tech written up in golfmonthly dot com.
“Artificial Intelligence has changed the way we play golf in the 21st century and, thanks to an array of golf GPS apps and tracking devices, individuals can see their stats like never before, accessing all kinds of data about their game to really pinpoint where strengths and weaknesses lie.
They are fantastic bits of kit and can really help you improve and lose strokes out on the course. What’s more, they aren’t overly expensive or awkward to use, with many devices coming in compact forms or focusing on simplicity.
Lots of the devices and apps in this guide also use A.I. and Strokes Gained Analysis to help you understand exactly where you can make up those all important shots. Below, we list the best golf shot tracking apps and devices on the market to help you pick which is best for you.”
Computer-Assisted Lighting and Heating Systems:  To improve the efficiency and cost savings of clubhouse operations, clubs are now investing in computer-assisted lighting and heating systems. These systems allow for greater control over the climate inside a clubhouse, as well as automatic adjustment of light levels depending on weather conditions.
Computer-assisted lighting and heating systems offer a range of benefits to golf clubhouses. Depending on the system, they can provide automated control over climate settings such as temperature, air circulation and humidity. Additionally, they can also adjust light levels in response to changing weather conditions or during peak times of usage throughout the day. This ensures that members will always have an optimal environment for their golfing experience.
Furthermore, these systems can also help to save clubs money on electricity and energy bills. By automatically adjusting climate settings when not in use and dimming lights during hours of darkness, these systems can significantly reduce the amount of energy used by a clubhouse. This can result in considerable cost savings over time.
Overall, computer-assisted lighting and heating systems represent an effective way for golf clubs to improve operational efficiency, as well as offer a better experience for members. By making use of this technology, golf clubs can ensure that their clubhouse remains comfortable and inviting for all visitors.
Interactive Displays: Technology is also helping to create a more personalized experience for members with interactive displays that can feature custom content relevant to the club’s members. These displays may include weather forecasts, golf tips, instructional videos, and more.
Interactive displays can be used to create a more unique and personal experience for members, with custom content tailored to the club’s specific needs. For example, interactive displays can show real-time weather updates and forecasts so that members can plan their game or practice session accordingly. For golfers wanting to improve their skills, instructional videos and tutorials can be displayed to help them learn new techniques or get up-to-date tips from professional golfers.
In addition, interactive displays can be used to highlight upcoming events, memberships, and other offerings at the club. This not only helps create more awareness of what the club has to offer but also makes it easier for members to access important information quickly and easily. With an interactive display, members can quickly learn about the latest offerings or sign up for events without having to spend time searching through printed materials or visiting a website.
Overall, the use of technology in golf clubhouse design is helping to create a more personalized and engaging experience for members. Interactive displays are one way that clubs can leverage this technology to provide their members with a more tailored experience and help make their time at the club more enjoyable.
Virtual Golf Lessons: One great way to learn and practice is with virtual golf lessons through a simulator setup. This allows for a realistic experience on the course without having to leave the clubhouse.
Virtual golf lessons are becoming increasingly popular due to the numerous benefits they offer. Not only do they provide an immersive experience on the course, but also provide detailed feedback that can help golfers quickly improve their technique and performance. The simulator setup is designed to replicate the real playing conditions as accurately as possible, including wind speed, course design, temperature, and more.
The technology is also beneficial for the golf club operations as it can help streamline lesson scheduling, improve communication between instructors and students, and provide detailed feedback on student progress over time. This allows members to get the most out of their lessons while providing the staff with a comprehensive view of the learning process. Moreover, virtual golf lessons can be a great marketing tool to attract new members and keep existing ones engaged.
With the help of technology, golf clubs are now able to provide a much more immersive experience that is both fun and beneficial for their members. Virtual golf lessons allow them to stay on top of their game while the clubhouse staff can benefit from improved operations and better insights into student progress. Technology has revolutionized the way golfers learn and has also allowed clubhouses to offer a much higher quality of service.  All in all, technology is revolutionizing how golf clubs design their clubhouse experiences and providing more opportunities for fun and learning.
Future of Clubhouse Design: With technology continuously advancing, the future of golf clubhouse design is bright. Clubs will be able to utilize new technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and 3D printing in order to create immersive experiences for their members.
The implementation of new technologies in clubhouse design will provide a myriad of benefits for both clubs and its members. With virtual reality, golfers can explore the clubhouse virtually before they even step foot in it, allowing them to get an accurate picture of what the experience will be like. Augmented reality can also be used to allow golfers to map out their shots before they hit, making it easier to plan their strategy on the course. 3D printing can also be used for customizing interior design elements such as chairs and couches, giving golfers a unique experience that is tailored specifically to them.
These new technologies will help improve operations at the golf club. With virtual reality, clubs can easily create an interactive demonstration of their clubhouse layout, giving golfers an accurate representation of what to expect. This technology will also allow clubs to save on labor costs as it can be used to simulate certain tasks that may otherwise require personnel. Additionally, new technologies such as 3D printing and augmented reality can help streamline customer service, providing golfers with a more personalized experience.
Overall, the use of technology in golf clubhouse design provides a number of benefits that can be utilized by both clubs and their members. With new technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and 3D printing, clubs can create a more immersive experience for their members while also improving operations. It is clear that technology will have an integral role in the future of golf clubhouse design.
The potential of technology in golf clubhouse design is immense, and the possibilities are only beginning to be explored. By keeping up with the ever-evolving technological advances, clubs can stay ahead of the competition and provide their members with an experience like no other. Tune in to this podcast for more information on how technology is changing golf course design!
In today’s episode, we explored the latest innovations in tech integrated clubhouse design for an elevated member experience in golf clubs. Thanks for listening to today’s episode, I’ll see you guys at the next one and don’t forget to subscribe! Support the show by following on fountain.fm. Send us questions and support. See you in the next one!

Minimalist Swing

Episode 012
Welcome to the “Experience in Golf Clubhouse Design” podcast, where we explore the fascinating world of golf clubhouse design and its impact on members’ lifestyles. Join us as we dive into the details of architecture, interior design concepts, and the key elements that lead to successful golf clubhouses and resorts. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, designer, or simply someone interested in learning more about clubhouse design, be sure to subscribe now to stay up to date on all our latest episodes and insights. In today’s episode, we’ll cover minimalist golf club design, as featured in Arianne Nardo’s article on a Montreal clubhouse.
So, you’ve heard of minimalist design? It turns out that the concept has been applied to the design of a clubhouse in Montreal. Arianne Nardo has written an article exploring the details of this unique project.
The clubhouse is located at Golf Exécutif Montréal and was designed by Canadian firm Architecture49. The idea behind the design was to create a space that would enhance the overall golfing experience while still maintaining a simple, minimalistic aesthetic.
One of the standout features of the clubhouse is the use of natural light. Huge windows and skylights provide plenty of natural light, highlighting the beauty of the surrounding natural environment. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the golf course, which creates a sense of relaxation and tranquility.
The minimalist approach doesn’t mean that the design is without personality. In fact, there are numerous details that add warmth and character to the space, such as the use of exposed wood and local materials.
Overall, the architect has created a refreshing take on a golf clubhouse. The clean design and use of natural light make it an idyllic space to relax and socialize after a round of golf. Whether or not you’re a golfer, this minimalist clubhouse is sure to impress!
Let’s get into the article.
A Golf Clubhouse in Montreal with Minimalist Swing
Architecture49 plays the design game under par.
By Arianne Nardo
Canadian studio Architecture49 recently designed an ultra-modern clubhouse for Golf Exécutif Montréal. It’s the kind of space that breezes past the game’s well-behaved conventions, driving out a few stereotypes (and yawns). Not to take away from those historic, world-class courses in majestic settings, or felicitous fashions that strut down the green, but for the design crowd, the game hasn’t typically brought down the house.
This project is different. Visually impressive, the building’s roof stands out not only for its size, but also for its character, acting as a strong, cantilevered plane that extends beyond the internal walls. Every view, close or far, is enhanced by the contrast of light and dark and a back-and-forth exchange between indoors and out.
Rather than break out separate areas for every function, Architecture49 delivered a unified concept, creating a cohesive space where the driving range tees, bar, lounge, full restaurant kitchen, pro shop, and golf simulators are housed in one contemporary structure. It’s a unique point of departure for anyone with a club membership. And one that the design addresses directly, according to Alexandre Sauvé, senior architect at Architecture49. “The originality of our project lies in the fact that we have merged several functions: a clubhouse with its services and a covered practice area under one roof. Indeed, these two functions are often separated in golf resorts. The curve of the building, which follows the traditional configuration of a practice field, is also an important element of our design.”
What began as a request for a sheltered area so members could use the driving range regardless of the weather evolved into a complete revision of the traditional format. Sauvé notes that the client was very involved in the process, leading to the atypical pavilion. Wood is the most prominent building material, a choice that the studio made for aesthetic reasons and its natural impact. “It has been proven that the presence of wood in a building has an immediate effect on the well-being of its occupants,” notes Sauvé. “For this reason, this abundant renewable resource in Canada quickly established itself in the design of the clubhouse. The client also wanted the project to include as many local materials as possible, the wood came Chibougamau, up north Québec.” The team also enlisted local artisans, suppliers, and craftspeople, taking a locavore approach with design.
The current collective desire for clean, open-concept spaces was not lost on Archiecture49. Situated on Nuns’ Island, a lush spot along the St. Lawrence River that faces downtown Montreal, the clubhouse was designed to work within the natural environment (golf is, after all, a sport for the outdoors-y types), not compete with it. “The building also features generous windows that provide views of the golf course and allow as much light as possible to enter the building,” Sauvé says. Materials like, glass, zinc and concrete quietly work to keep the look minimal and uninterrupted.
“It also blurs the boundaries between the inside and the outside,” he says. “During three seasons, the pavilion can naturally breathe and allow a freedom of movement for the guest. From a business to a community clientele, the pavilion has the potential to become community hub with services far from his main function, golfing.  We wanted a pure and naturally lit environment, noble materials for the finishes with refined lines and shapes, to allow a high level of comfort and conviviality for the guests.”
The team also designed with technology in mind. The pavilion features centralized control of the building’s various systems and subsystems (including heating, lighting, doors, electrical outlets, alarm system, surveillance cameras, and sound system) which keeps the entire affair very 2018.
Of course, automated controls are nice, but players are there for the game—so the clubhouse is home to four premium golf simulators. “They are equipped with an exhaustive bank of world-famous golf courses.” Sauvé contends that “the quality of the experience is similar to a virtual reality experience.” Two simulators have glazed sliding partitions, which offer privacy, while lounge seating serves as a hang out area for small groups. The other pair of simulators is set with a bar and multi-use space to serve more guest simultaneously. Game on.
On today’s episode, we discussed the minimalist golf club design featured in Arianne Nardo’s article on a Montreal clubhouse. Thanks for listening and don’t forget to subscribe! Support us on fountain dot f m.

The Future of Golf Clubhouse Design: Exploring Trends and Predictions for the Next Decade

Episode 011
Welcome to the “Experience in Golf Clubhouse Design” podcast, where we explore the fascinating world of golf clubhouse design and its impact on members’ lifestyles. Join us as we dive into the details of architecture, interior design concepts, and the key elements that lead to successful golf clubhouses and resorts. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, designer, or simply someone interested in learning more about clubhouse design, be sure to subscribe now to stay up to date on all our latest episodes and insights. In today’s episode, we’ll cover the trends and predictions for the future of golf clubhouse design, including sustainability, technology, and luxurious amenities.
As the golf industry continues to rapidly grow, so does the importance of golf clubhouse design. With new advancements in technology, sustainability, and comfortability, golfers are seeking out more innovative ways to enhance their experience on the course. In this episode, we’ll explore the latest trends in golf clubhouse design and make some predictions for what the industry will look like in the next decade.
We’ll start off by looking at how sustainability is being incorporated into golf clubhouses – from low-impact materials to energy efficient lighting systems. Next, we’ll talk about how technology is being leveraged to enhance the clubhouse experience, from interactive screens in the lobby to virtual putting greens. Finally, we’ll discuss comfortability and how golfers are seeking out more luxurious amenities when it comes to their clubhouses – like rooftop lounges, outdoor kitchens, and even spa experiences.
By understanding what’s currently trending in the industry, we’ll be able to make some educated predictions for what golf clubhouses will look like in the next decade. So join us as we explore all of these trends and more – you’re not going to want to miss it!
Today we have an exciting topic that we’ll be discussing. We will be exploring the future of golf clubhouse designs. This is an important topic because clubhouses are central to the golfing experience and can greatly impact one’s decision to play or join a club.
One aspect of golf clubhouse design that’s becoming increasingly important is sustainability. Nowadays, we are seeing more environmentally-friendly clubhouses being built, solar-powered amenities and the use of energy-saving devices are all being incorporated to reduce the operational costs of golf clubs.
Technology is also playing a significant role in golf clubhouses. For instance, facial and fingerprint recognition are being used to enhance the security of the clubhouse. In addition, technology is helping managers gather data that can be analyzed to optimize operations and enhance the overall experience for members.
Comfortable and luxurious amenities are becoming increasingly common in golf clubhouses. Many clubs are investing in amenities like spas, gyms, and high-end restaurants to attract members and keep them comfortable.
Now, let’s move on to the exciting part where we try and predict what golf clubhouses will look like in the next ten years. With the increasing awareness of environmental sustainability, we can expect to see more efficient designs and the use of technology in clubhouses. Additionally, we foresee the use of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies to improve the overall experience of the clubhouse and the golf course.
Step through the doors of the clubhouse and immediately notice how the air feels different. The atmosphere inside is one of peace and tranquility – a far cry from the hustle and bustle of everyday life outside.
The walls are made from sustainable building materials, with low-impact insulation to reduce energy costs. Recycled furniture and energy-saving devices are scattered throughout the clubhouse, but it still manages to look luxurious and comfortable.
The interactive screens in the lobby feature a variety of augmented reality experiences that allow golfers to practice their putts on virtual putting greens or fly through the course to get a better understanding of its layout.
Revisit your game in the virtual room with your friends. Watch past games with friends. See improvements made to the course, current holes locations and best possible approaches. Raining take to the course or any course in the world virtually with friends.
To sum it up, today we’ve discussed some really interesting trends that are shaping the future of golf clubhouse design. Sustainability, technology, comfortability, and luxurious amenities are all emerging themes. When we look to the next decade, we can expect even more innovative designs and technology being incorporated into clubhouses to enhance the overall golf experience.
Thanks for listening to today’s episode, I’ll see you guys at the next one and don’t forget to subscribe! Support the show by following on fountain dot f m. Send us questions and support. See you in the next one!

Designing for Different Demographics

Episode 010

Welcome to the “Experience in Golf Clubhouse Design” podcast, where we explore the fascinating world of golf clubhouse design and its impact on members’ lifestyles. Join us as we dive into the details of architecture, interior design concepts, and the key elements that lead to successful golf clubhouses and resorts. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, designer, or simply someone interested in learning more about clubhouse design, be sure to subscribe now to stay up to date on all our latest episodes and insights. In today’s episode, we’ll cover designing golf clubhouses using inclusive techniques to appeal to a wide range of members.

Welcome to our podcast where we explore the fascinating world of golf clubhouses and how they can be designed to appeal to different age groups and backgrounds. We’ll be taking a deep dive into the exciting world of design techniques that can create inclusivity and appeal to a wide range of members.

When you think of a traditional golf clubhouse, you might picture a stuffy, old-fashioned building that only appeals to a certain crowd. But the truth is, with the right design techniques, golf clubhouses can become more inviting and welcoming to people of all ages and backgrounds.

So, what are these design techniques? First, it’s important to consider the layout of the clubhouse. For example, creating open spaces that flow from one room to the next can make the space feel more spacious and inviting. This is especially important for larger clubs with a diverse membership base.  Additionally, incorporating different seating options in the clubhouse can create a more inviting atmosphere for all members. Choose furniture that is comfortable yet stylish and consider elements like color, texture, and lighting to create an inviting atmosphere.

Another technique is the use of color and texture. Using warm and neutral colors can create a welcoming atmosphere, while incorporating natural textures such as wood and stone can add a touch of coziness and comfort. 

But it’s not just about the physical design of the clubhouse. The services and amenities offered are equally important to creating a welcoming space. For example, having a diverse range of food and beverage options can cater to different tastes and preferences, while offering activities such as family-friendly events and kid-friendly facilities can cater to younger members.

Finally, when designing a clubhouse for different demographics, it’s important to consider the “wow” factor. Think about incorporating elements like fireplaces, art installations, and murals to create a unique atmosphere that members will enjoy.

Designing golf clubhouses to appeal to different age groups and backgrounds requires a combination of physical design elements and thoughtful services and amenities. By using techniques such as open layouts, warm colors, and diverse offerings, golf clubs can become inclusive and welcoming spaces for all members.

Today we learned about designing golf clubhouses that appeal to members from different age and backgrounds, using inclusive techniques, ensuring a wider range of membership – Thanks for listening to today’s episode. Consider supporting the show by streaming and boosting us sats on Fountain dot f m. Leave us a comment or question we could answer in an upcoming episode. We appreciate all your support. I’ll see you guys in the next one and don’t forget to subscribe!