Graham Baba Architects Completes Minimalist Golf Clubhouse in Yakima, Washington
The new 12,000-square-foot facility blends agrarian design aesthetics with modern mass timber construction.
1Agrarian Design Inspiration
Graham Baba Architects designed the Westwood Golf clubhouse as a minimalist homage to the agricultural structures found in Yakima, Washington. The project draws inspiration from the region's hop fields and orchards, utilizing board-formed concrete and timber to reflect the local landscape. This approach intentionally departs from standard, industrial-style driving range facilities.
2Structural Materiality and Scale
The 12,000-square-foot, L-shaped building features a mass timber roof and upper floor. These elements are supported by a combination of steel and glued-laminated columns. A 20-foot clear span between columns ensures that golfers have sufficient space for unencumbered swings, balancing structural integrity with the functional requirements of a modern sports facility.
3Driving Range Functionality
The facility houses 28 driving-range stations distributed across two levels. The design includes high-tech simulation capabilities, allowing users to experience golf courses from around the world. The ground level offers 14 bays, while the upper floor provides an additional 14, creating a versatile environment for both casual practice and professional training sessions.
4Material Texture and Rhythm
Wooden boards were utilized to form the concrete walls, introducing a horizontal rhythm that softens the building's overall expression. This texture helps break down the scale of the concrete, allowing the structure to maintain a low profile across the flat site. Corten-steel shade screens further wrap select areas, adding depth and visual interest.
5Hospitality and Event Spaces
The ground level integrates a restaurant, bar, and pro shop to enhance the guest experience. The upper floor features a second bar and an enclosed event space, complemented by a broad terrace overlooking the course. This layout ensures the facility functions as a social hub rather than just a performance-focused sports venue.
6Environmental and Site Integration
Sustainability is addressed through a green roof and an on-site stormwater management system. Rainwater is channeled into a pond, which provides essential irrigation for the site during the dry summer months. This infrastructure reflects a commitment to resource efficiency within the semi-arid climate of central Washington, supporting the facility's long-term operational needs.
7Spatial Experience and Views
The design team prioritized the user experience by differentiating the two levels of the driving range. The lower level is shielded from wind and direct sun, offering a protected environment. Conversely, the upper level captures cross breezes and provides expansive views, demonstrating how architectural orientation can significantly influence the comfort of sports facilities.
8Industry Context and Impact
By moving away from typical pan-deck and painted concrete construction, the project highlights a shift toward warmer, more experiential sports architecture. This clubhouse serves as a notable example of how regional identity can inform modern design, setting a precedent for future developments in rural settings that require both high performance and aesthetic appeal.