Bonita Bay Clubhouse Gets an $11.5 Million Face Lift
After two years of planning, closing the nearly 30-year old clubhouse for eight months and spending $11.5 million, the Bonita Bay Club has a new look, according to this article from the Naples Daily News, a more functional layout, fresh amenities and new members.
The most striking change, according to the article, was the conversion of the golf shop into a 4,700-square-foot open-air bar and casual grill. The casual space has glass walls that slide away to let the outdoors in and glass railings on the surrounding wraparound terrace that allow unobstructed views of the green practice range to creep in. Stairs lead to an outdoor seating area where a 14-foot log fire pit is the focal point, helping to make this the best place to relax and watch the beautiful Florida sunsets.
And those same colors provided the inspiration for the new digs.
“Soft oranges and the dark blue of the sky just as the sun drops behind the horizon guided our color choices,” said Migena Gace, ASID, who designed the interiors as part of the architectural team from Peacock and Lewis Architects of North Palm Beach. “Light fluctuations throughout the day and into the evening, and the play of colors and fabrics add vibrancy and visual interest.”
The new 55th Hole lounge has proved to be the club members’ most popular gathering spot with its 127-inch media wall, built by Beyond Audio Visual of Fort Myers.
The golf shop was relocated to the new 30,000-square-foot Golf Super Center, linked to the clubhouse by a golf cart staging area, graced with wooden arbors, pavers and landscaping. Rocking chairs overlook the driving range from the terrace; underground storage accommodates 240 carts; 2,900 golf bags are organized inside; and the views from the pro shop rival those of the 55th Hole.
It’s incredible.
The golf shop has a coffee bar, two televisions and outdoor views through two walls of glass.
“The country club business has changed with a new generation of members who appreciate a more casual, relaxed look,” said Gace. “We aimed for a fresh look that is timeless and classic with a modern twist, one that has broad appeal for members old and new.”
Gace created a balanced color scheme using time-tested berry reds, warm taupes and splashes of orange, which she compares to adding a dash of lemon juice to a dish just before serving. Beautiful pieces of abstract artwork add even more dashes of color throughout.
“They create movement and a fresh, new look and have been well received by club members,” said Gace.
Behind the Scenes
The kitchen was totally reconfigured, with better storage and an improved loading dock to increase efficiency and maximize space.
However, improvements didn’t stop there.
They extended beyond the clubhouse onto the golf course. The first of a three-phase golf course irrigation renovation began. And the asphalt cart paths on the Arthur Hills-designed Marsh golf course were replaced and upgraded with a combination of concrete and crushed coquina shells. This completed the cart path renovation on all three courses within Bonita Bay and eliminated asphalt except in parking areas.
