Episode Details

Episode 007

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 John Gendall's article on modern clubhouses and how they redefine destinations in the April 2022 issue of Golf Digest.

Welcome listeners! Today's episode is all about "How the modern international clubhouse is creating a new sense of destination," an article by John Gendall featured in Golf Digest on April 12, 2022. I can't wait to dive into this topic because it's a fascinating read that sheds light on some of the exciting changes happening in the world of golf.

Gendall's article highlights the emerging trend of international golf clubs, which are transforming the traditional experience of playing golf into something entirely new. These new clubs offer unique cultural and social experiences that go beyond just hitting a ball around a course. Instead, golfers are treated to a truly immersive experience that combines the thrill of golf with luxury amenities, global travel, and exclusive dining experiences.

One of the most exciting things about these clubs is how they are redefining what it means to be a golfer. No longer is golf just a sport played by enthusiasts - it's now a lifestyle that can take you to the most exotic and glamorous destinations around the world. Gendall's article provides a fascinating look at how these clubs have evolved over time, and why they are becoming more popular than ever before.

Let's get into the article.

How the modern international clubhouse is creating a new sense of destination

By John Gendall

April 12, 2022

When the royal and ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews first opened the doors to its new clubhouse in 1854, it was the first of its kind—a structure designed and built as a golf clubhouse, allowing players to store equipment, change clothes, socialize and eat and drink. Golf, of course, had by then a much deeper reach into history, having been played for well over 300 years, but the concept of a dedicated clubhouse was new in 1854. Before that, players made use of nearby taverns and social clubs, which had long functioned as de facto clubhouses.

"It was typical, as it was at St. Andrews, to have social clubs next to a golf course," says Richard Diedrich, the author of Legendary Golf Clubhouses of the U.S. and Great Britain. The golf course tended to come with public access, so it was the different private social clubs that cultivated a sense of community and belonging.

When the R&A opened its clubhouse, it combined the community of a tavern and the function of a social club with the affiliation of a golf club. Designed by local architect George Rae, the neoclassical structure set an important precedent for golf clubs around the world, establishing a role for architecture—visually and functionally—in the experience of golf.

Golf tends to draw from tradition, and because architecture, much like law, is a profession based on precedent, the design of clubhouses has looked to historic precedents, beginning with the R&A. This is not uncommon for architecture. Consider Greek temples. Built some 2,500 years ago, they still serve as a template for buildings of all kinds: churches, courthouses, schools, government buildings, houses, movie theaters and service stations.

But when George Rae was drawing his designs for a ne