The traditional country club is having a hard time attracting a younger demographic. In a 2014 study commissioned by the National Club Association found that in the 1990s, there more than 5,000 full-service golf and country clubs. In 2010, there around 4,100. Today, this number has dipped below 4000. In this same study, membership was down by 20 percent. As a result of this downward trajectory, many clubs have decided to mix things up to attract younger members.
As builders, we’ve witnessed this trend. Many of area’s country clubs are going through a refresh, offering non-golf amenities like gyms, personal trainers, and yoga classes. A lot of these clubs offer events and culinary experiences where members can socialize and gain a sense of community. It is interesting to see this shift taking place. This Nordby Effect highlights the projects where we’ve played an active role in refreshing country club environments to address a new generation of members, and create more of a family destination.
Fountaingrove Country Club, Santa Rosa
The Fountaingrove Club is a member-owned private facility. Recently burned down by the October 2017 Tubbs Fire, Nordby is under contract to build the "Club of the Future." Members receive access to a picturesque golf course, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, on-of-a-kind tennis facilities, and an award winning dining program. They offer classes, lessons, social programs and more.
Santa Rosa Golf & Country Club, Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa Country Club has taken their private club lifestyle to exciting new levels with a dramatic clubhouse and golf course improvements. Updates include the new Appellation Bar and Grill, enhanced upscale dining, updated outdoor patio, new fitness center, refreshed swimming pool area, and improved golf experience.
Marin Country Club is a private golf and country club providing exceptional facilities and activities for the whole family. They have a stunning golf course, plexi-cushion tennis courts, swimming pools, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, and exceptional cuisine. The club provides programmed activities that are tailored to the whole family.
The Meadow Club is situated below Mount Tamalpais and surrounded by an all-natural environment, offering a world class golf experience. The club provides enjoyable dining venues inside and outside, from the casual Golf House to the more formal Clubhouse and MacKenzie Bar. Special events, tournaments and all major holidays are celebrated throughout the year. During the summer the club offers a luxurious pool in a delightful setting with a view that goes on for miles.