Capital projects often begin with a list of improvements. At The Club at Mediterra in Naples, Fla., the planning process started with a larger question. How should the club evolve to meet changing member expectations without losing sight of what made it successful in the first place?
The answer is a two-phase transformation that includes a new Sports and Lifestyle Center, expanded wellness and fitness amenities, a casual dining venue, and a complete redesign of both golf courses. Club + Resort Business spoke with General Manager/COO Carmen Mauceri about the thinking behind the project, lessons learned during planning and construction, and how the club is preparing for the next generation of members.
Club + Resort Business (C+RB): Mediterra is undertaking a significant investment in its Sports and Lifestyle Center. What sparked the project?
Carmen Mauceri, General Manager/COO, The Club at Mediterra
Carmen Mauceri (CM): It has been part of our strategic planning for some time. Our existing sports facility served us well, but the club has evolved over the last five years. We recognized the need to continue investing in that part of the member experience. The first phase is a new, approximately 28,000-square-foot Sports and Lifestyle Center with dedicated fitness, wellness and lifestyle spaces. One of the biggest advantages is that we’re building on open land, so members can continue using the current facility until the new one is complete.
C+RB: Why did the club choose to build a new facility instead of renovating the existing one?
CM: We studied both options. The current building is 25 years old and had already been expanded several times. Eventually you reach a point where adding onto an existing building creates more challenges than it solves. Building new allows us to take advantage of modern systems, technology and infrastructure while designing spaces specifically for how members use them today.
C+RB: How will the completed campus come together once both phases are finished?
CM: The first phase focuses on fitness and wellness, including the fitness center, Pilates, spin, spa therapy, café and lifestyle programming. Once members move into that building, we’ll demolish the existing sports facility and begin Phase Two, which includes a new casual restaurant, resort-style pool, expanded locker rooms and additional space for future racquet growth.
C+RB: At the same time, Mediterra is renovating both golf courses. How do you balance multiple major capital projects?
CM: The sports project and golf projects are funded differently. The Sports and Lifestyle Center combines financing and a member capital fee, while the golf course renovations are being funded through capital reserves built over time. We’re fortunate to be able to move several important projects forward together.
C+RB: What has surprised you most during construction?
CM: Honestly, very little. New construction eliminates many of the surprises that come with renovations because you’re not opening existing walls or uncovering hidden issues. We’ve also been fortunate with good weather so far, and both the building and golf projects are progressing according to schedule.
C+RB: Every capital project creates some disruption. How do you keep members focused on the club experience?
CM: We focus on the small details every day. Construction is happening, but members should still see a clean, polished club. The grounds, fencing, pathways and presentation all matter. If we do those small things well, members can continue enjoying the club while the larger projects move forward.
C+RB: Mediterra has members across multiple generations. How do you balance the expectations of longtime members with newer ones?
CM: Most of our members are excited about these investments because they benefit everyone. Many of our longtime members enjoy seeing their children and grandchildren use the club. They also understand that continuing to invest protects both the club experience and the value of their homes. At a community club like Mediterra, each generation has a responsibility to leave the club stronger for the next.
