Page 30 - GBC Fall English 2025 flipbook

From the outset, our F&B team
were engaged in the design process
through a Building Committee
originally formed to oversee the
clubhouse renovations. The
committee’s scope later expanded
to include the halfway house, with
a focus on an inviting structure
designed for seasonal adaptability
and self-serve operation.
Planning and design were
carefully timed so construction
could take place in our off-season
(November to April), minimizing
disruption to members. Close
coordination between our architect,
builder, and golf operations team
ensured there was no impact on
course availability or the member
experience. The building was
completed just ahead of peak
season, allowing for a seamless
launch.
Naturally, we experienced
some challenges. Like many
projects built during COVID, we
faced rising construction costs and
had to remain flexible with
timelines. Early in the excavation
phase for new service lines (water,
drainage, and electricity), we
discovered that this part of the
course had been built on fill
containing entire tree trunks —
more than 20 were pulled out by
the excavator. We brought in
significant additional fill to
properly support the new
foundations and reengineer the
structure, causing a brief delay. As
Heather cautioned early on,
unforeseen conditions often arise
in projects like this. As she put it,
“Surprises underground are par
for the course in heritage
landscapes. What matters is how
quickly you pivot — that’s what
keeps a challenge from becoming a
crisis.” Thanks to a focused and
collaborative team effort, we were
able to recover lost time and move
forward without compromising
the project.
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Golf Business Canada
DESIGN THINKING: FORM MEETS FUNCTION
The vision was to create something architecturally beautiful, highly
functional, and distinctly Ladies’ — a structure that reflected the club’s
legacy while enhancing the member experience. The resulting halfway
house is modest in size but rich in intent. Constructed mainly of timber,
it sits lightly on the land, visible but unobtrusive, modern yet warm.
A large operable window opens to connect golfers with the outdoors,
while a covered seating area offers respite from sun and rain and serves
as a refuge during lightning storms. A lightning protection system was
installed to complement the club’s other designated storm shelters.
The interior was thoughtfully planned for functionality and flow.
The self-serve setup reduces staffing requirements, streamlines service,
and allows for flexibility, accommodating external vendors or special
events as needed.
Seasonal adaptability was also a key design driver. Features like
cross-ventilation, shading, and overhead coverage extend the pavilion’s
usability from spring through fall, providing comfort and shelter
throughout the main golf season.
OPERATIONAL BENEFITS AND ROI: BEYOND THE NUMBERS
The operational shift has been significant. Transitioning from a fully
staffed halfway house to a self-serve model has given us greater control,
reduced overhead, and expanded our service options. We can now easily
scale for events or tournaments, feature local vendors, or operate with no
staff.