For the fourth year in a row, Kuo Diedrich Chi (KDC) is being recognized by Golf, Inc. for its outstanding work in clubhouse renovation and design. This year, KDC won third place in Golf Inc.’s Clubhouse of the Year awards in the Private Club Renovation category for its redesign of the Marshwood Clubhouse at The Landings Club in Savannah, Georgia.

Each year, Golf Inc. recognizes the top clubhouse designs in public and private new construction and renovations based on visual appeal or aesthetics, floor plan efficiency and sustainability. The new 22,500 square foot Marshwood Clubhouse overlooks two of Arnold Palmer’s early designed golf courses, boasts a resort-style pool complex, top of the line golf shop, event lawn, Cabana Bar and is home to two restaurants that recognize the influence of Arnold Palmer – Arnie’s Tavern, with an all-day bar featuring a delicious fusion menu and Palmer’s Steakhouse, which offers premier steak and dining to members and guests. These branded restaurants are Arnold Palmer’s first since his original La Quinta restaurant. Members can also visit The Woodshed, a walk-up barbeque joint which serves the finest barbeque in Savannah.

When asked about what Arnold Palmer’s thoughts would be on the changes to the clubhouse, Sam Saunders, Palmer’s grandson and PGA Tour Pro said, “If my grandfather were here with me right now he would say ‘this is better…way better,’ and I believe he would truly be excited about The Landings Club’s future.”

According to distinguished landscape architect, golf course planner and judge Ron Cutlip, KDC’s clubhouse design was “well-sited into the topography and landscape.” Cutlip also admired the “modern architecture with clean lines, high ceilings and open-style floor plan.” 

The final phase of the $25 million renovation to The Landings Club was initially met with reluctance by members who held an emotional attachment to the original building that was built in 1974 and was the first clubhouse on the property. KDC’s vision was to make Marshwood a destination for members and families to come play, relax, exercise or dine, which quickly won the members over. KDC paid particular attention to the local vernacular, floor plan efficiency and the history of The Landings in its clubhouse redesign, which honors the great golf legend, Arnold Palmer, and is nestled between oak trees where outdoor diners are treated to a view of the natural marshes, tidal basins and both the Marshwood and Magnolia golf courses.

KDC utilized a unique geometrical design that was the direct result of respecting the existing site that also included saving numerous oak trees on the property. The interior spaces then incorporated heavy use of glass to maximize the golf views of the surrounding low country and golf course. KDC worked extensively with environmental consultants to preserve the property’s existing marsh and barriers, keeping the footprint light and giving the clubhouse a more settled and comfortable appearance on the land.

“The Landings Club is thrilled with the outcome of our Marshwood Clubhouse,” said Steven Freund, Executive Director of The Landings Club. “We were particularly impressed that Howard and the KDC team not only took the time to consider our other full-service clubhouses and facilities to determine how our new clubhouse would fit into the Marshwood campus and the history of our club, but also how it would complement our other facilities. As a result of KDC’s sensitivity to our entire Club and the DNA of our membership, we have a clubhouse that is timeless, elegant yet functional and practical, and one that honors Mr. Palmer’s legacy and the sensibilities of our members.” 

The clubhouse interior was designed by J Banks Design from Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, the landscape planning and architecture was the work of Wood + Partners, Inc. from Hilton Head Island, and the general contractor was Choate Construction Company from Savannah, Georgia. More photos of the Marshwood clubhouse renovation can be downloaded from this link.

“Recreating and reimagining the Marshwood Clubhouse at The Landings Club was a challenging and rewarding project. We are honored to have been recognized again by Golf, Inc. for our innovative clubhouse design,” said Howard Kuo, Kuo Diedrich Chi co-founder. “Working with Steven Freund and his team proved very synergistic as our ideas for modernizing the clubhouse, respecting the existing club’s history, and honoring Mr. Palmer’s legacy aligned. We wanted to create a holistic and inviting environment where members would feel welcome – no matter the activity - and the results speak for themselves. I could not be more proud of the KDC team.”