Pamela Brill

Clubs are finding a variety of ways, and places, to keep children engaged and entertained as part of all-inclusive settings throughout their properties.

When the COVID-19 outbreak took hold of the private club industry as 2020 began and prompted the shuttering of clubs across the country, Bishops Bay Country Club in Middleton, Wis. made members feel secure by using a deep-cleaning method owned by a fellow member.

The Seattle Yacht Club hosted an exotic car and motorcycle BBQ as part of its effort to appeal to a broader interest. In Virginia, Farmington Country Club and The Country Club of Virginia catered to their youngest members with versions of “Cookies and Canvas” to help kids “unplug” and enjoy the club.

Houston Racquet Club called upon local fire and police departments, K-9 units and construction companies to have a fleet of vehicles set up on the premises so members and their families could check them out up close during the annual Labor Day celebration. The “Touch-a-Truck” add-on helped increase usual revenues by 33 percent.

Updating the pro shop and performance studio at Portland (Ore.) GC started with a full evaluation of what it should be offering, and how, followed by a makeover to match the unique look, feel and member experience that’s now being provided throughout the property.

By creating bigger and better all-purpose space, clubs are turning their golf instruction and practice centers into top-notch facilities that attract more members and make important community connections.

The new private boardroom at Bishops Bay CC in Middleton, Wis., part of the last stage of a three-part renovation project, has become a popular spot for conducting business, both with those in the room and others who join via a conference-chat capability. “We have been amazed by how many of our members have a…

Having a new place to take a meeting—either on-premise for members, or off-site for guests—is providing a breath of fresh air for Springfield (Va.) G&CC.

Outdoors has become the preferred place to be, as clubs and resorts welcome the change in seasons with exciting and inviting exterior space.

Renovated retail shops are generating greater business for club and resort properties, thanks to better use of space and easier access to more merchandise.

Club and resort properties are increasing the value and appeal of their pool facilities with family-focused water features, dining options and made-in-the-shade seating.

Club and resort properties are designing new bars and pubs that take happy hour to an extended level, with updated space that exudes warmth and comfort.

Kids’ spaces are becoming permanent fixtures as more clubs cater to growing family memberships—and done right, they can make the younger set want to go eagerly to the club, without any kicking or screaming involved.

Clubs are rethinking their approach to locker-room design, with equal parts emphasis on function, style and creating open and welcoming gathering spots.

Snack bars, halfway houses and comfort stations are being designed to be much more than just places for making quick pit stops and grabbing fast-food bites.