Buffon said once: “Le style c’est l’homme”. The style is the man. He meant to say that only well-written books will survive and gain permanence. I dare to say that it is also true regarding golf clubs and their clubhouses.
This year we could already enjoy a new golf course designed by Gil Hanse at Les Bordes Golf Club. Now I can share with you another achievement. A panel of judges for Golf Inc. Magazine has voted Les Bordes Golf Club as one of the best private club renovations in its 25th annual ‘Clubhouse of the Year’ competition.
Mark Melzer, one of three Golf Inc. Magazine ‘Clubhouse of the Year’ judges and chairman of MDR Architects & Planners said
“Masculine features are cleanly detailed, and both the interior and exterior spaces evoke an uncluttered humility, which allows one to enjoy the majestic forest and native landscaping all around.”
Michaelis Boyd Associates designed the clubhouse renovation (Michael Sanders, architect), while Laurent Baffy served as clubhouse contractor.
Michael Sanders, the architect said
“The key to bringing personality into a renovation project is balance – our goal was to create contemporary, light-filled spaces but also retain as many original features as possible.
We wanted guests to feel connected to their environment, and for the space to feel like an extension of their day out on the course, so in the bar we installed modern Crittall-style external doors to open up the space and give views towards the grounds, bringing nature and light in.”
In the bar, the Crittall glazing doors provide a wide-open view of the course, the first tee, lakes, and coppices. The industrial feel of the metal and glass complement the weathered stonework and clay roof tiles of the clubhouse – marrying the old and the new together.
Original elements such as the limestone flooring and stone fireplace add a sense of grandeur and tradition while preserving the dramatic high ceilings and exposed beams of the existing building add to the authenticity of the site.
Creating a luxurious and cosy atmosphere was a prime objective.
Creating a luxurious and cozy atmosphere was a prime objective – the interiors are comfortable, deep teal walls accent marble and walnut finishes.
Brass-latticed chandeliers dot the space to provide a soft glow by dusk and sculptural interest by day, and an eclectic mix of antique accessories, curated artwork, and furniture upholstered in sumptuous velvets and warming leathers create a sense of home away from home.
The bar extends onto the terrace, where grey-hued limestone and contemporary cast iron-like outdoor furniture evokes the feeling of Parisienne brasseries. White parasols and cleverly place planter boxes provide shade and shelter, allowing patrons to enjoy their natural surroundings.
In the restaurant & in the clubhouse private dining room
In the restaurant, the pale limestone flooring, stone-quoined door openings, and heavy wooden lintels bring a charming, slightly monastic feel to the dining space. A convivial 8-meter-long bespoke navy leather banquette was placed in the center of the room, flanked by marble and sawn timber surfaces. Accents of brass add a touch of luxury to the more utilitarian space.
Finally, the clubhouse private dining room was reimagined as a relaxing den, softly lit by wall lights with cloche hoods, strategically placed mirrors, and a feature pendant allowing light to bounce in the space. The perfect spot to share wholesome meals and lazy conversations with friends.
Taking inspiration from the historic priory and agricultural buildings dotted around the estate, Michaelis Boyd’s designs have brilliantly retained original features whilst injecting a modern vernacular to create contemporary, light-filled spaces.
Conclusion – Les Bordes Golf Club
This is a well-deserved recognition and achievement. Simply magnifique. Usually, I like to highlight improvement opportunities but now I am speechless and amazed.