Clubhouse Design Suggestions

September 27, 2007

We are recommending a clubhouse designed for community use. The size should be 6000sf, 3000sf on the upper level, corresponding amount on the lower level, which may vary, depending on the relationship of the building to the site.

The building should be a modest structure, where quality construction and quality finishing touches will make it a focal point of the amenities area and the community. It should ‘fit’ the land, a low, horizontal structure on the lake side, and the lower level (walkout basement) accessible from the pool/ activity area. Design of the building should allow for future expansion, an illustration of any design should include that addition at outset. Space should be left undeveloped and available for that expansion.

There should be covered, wraparound porches surrounding the upper level. The attractive exterior should be in the theme of “upscale country.” Stone trim on exterior could be repeated on the interior fireplace in the foyer. All construction materials should be chosen with low maintenance in mind, with a very minimal use of exterior wood. The exterior flooring should be prefinished, composite materials, such as Trex, Choice Deck, etc. Patios should be stone or concrete where needed. The materials should support & reflect the surroundings.

The design of the building should reflect the openness of its surroundings with a number of high glass panels along its exterior walls to bring in the overall view of the lake. Energy efficient glass in sliders will open the Great Room to the adjacent wraparound porches, enlarging the room. Every attempt should be made to have the building as environmentally friendly, “green,” as possible through the use of alternative energy sources for heating building and pool water. Windows & vents should be arranged for good air flow.

Upper level should have a spacious entrance/foyer/reception area, with a fireplace, and conversational grouping of furniture. There will be a Great Room, able to accommodate 100-140 people, appropriately sized restrooms, kitchen and storage. We assume that 1000 sq. ft would be adequate for restrooms, kitchen, storage & foyer, leaving 2000 sq ft for the great room. Care should be taken with the acoustics of the Great Room. We need sound-absorbing materials on appropriate surfaces to deaden excessive noise.

Each level should have handicapped facilities available. Attractive, durable, low maintenance floor coverings should be suitable to the planned room usage.

Non commercial kitchen should have a buffet pass-through, residential style, self-cleaning range, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, large capacity ice maker, moveable microwave/convection oven(s) and many electrical outlets (to accommodate covered dish socials). Adequate cabinets and counter work space. Space left to add additional appliances as necessary.

Lower level will have large space easily divided into small meeting rooms or activity rooms, with movable walls, permanent offices for the HOA, and a possible real estate office. Any offices should be adjacent to the entry. In addition, the lower level would have restrooms, mechanical and utility rooms, and storage.

Interior staircase is for functionality, not a focal point, and should be easily closed off to limit access at either end when necessary.

Ceiling fans should be in all the rooms on both levels, where appropriate.

Wiring suitable for a variety of computer and entertainment,(i.e wireless internet) in the offices and a possible future sound system, keeping in mind that the needs of electronic equipment change rapidly.

At the rear of the building, a stone patio, and barbeque area could be located adjacent to the pool area, and shaded by the upper deck

We feel a design of this sort should be able to serve the community for many years, adapting as our needs evolve.

For further reference:

The Meeting Planners brochure for the Carolina Hotel in Pinehurst states a 40 x 60 (2400sf) room can accommodate the following number of people depending on the seating arrangements:

Theatre 250

Reception 300

Banquet 200

Buffet 140

Classroom 150