Extension and Extensive Refurbishment of Royal St George’s Golf Club

Royal St George’s Golf Club – Project Case Study

Royal St George’s Golf Club, a prestigious golf course located in Sandwich, Kent, embarked on a major renovation and extension project to enhance its facilities, modernise the clubhouse, and improve the overall member experience.

The project was successfully completed through three carefully planned phases, enabling the Golf Club to remain operational throughout the works and minimising disruption to members and visitors.

Phase 1 – Heavy Refurbishment and Internal Alterations

The first phase comprised extensive refurbishment and internal alterations to the existing clubhouse. The works included the enlargement and reconfiguration of the kitchen, together with alterations and an extension to create a new committee room.

The Hickory Room and snack bar were also expanded and improved, while staff accommodation and back-of-house facilities were upgraded to provide a more efficient and modern working environment. These works also incorporated a courtyard extension, enhancing both the functionality and use of the existing facilities.

Phase 2 – New Build Office and Ladies’ Locker Room

Phase 2 involved the construction of a new office accommodation and ladies’ locker room facility. Due to the site’s challenging ground conditions and high water table, the new masonry superstructure was constructed on an extensive reinforced concrete raft foundation.

The new building was carefully integrated with the existing clubhouse through the installation of an external oak staircase and glazed canopy, creating a sympathetic connection between the new and existing elements while complementing the character of the historic building.

Phase 3 – Mechanical and Electrical Refurbishment

The final phase focused on the comprehensive refurbishment of the remaining clubhouse. This involved a complete strip-out followed by the installation of new mechanical, electrical, fire protection and data systems.

Following the installation of the new services, extensive making-good works and redecorations were undertaken throughout the clubhouse, bringing the remaining areas up to the required modern standards and providing a consistent finish across the completed development.

Project Challenges

Preserving Heritage

A key consideration throughout the project was the preservation of the historical character and architectural integrity of the existing clubhouse. The works required careful planning and attention to detail to retain the charm and heritage of the original building while seamlessly incorporating modern facilities, services and finishes.

Minimising Disruption

As the Golf Club remained operational throughout the construction period, maintaining continuity of the Club’s day-to-day activities was a key project requirement. The works were carefully phased and coordinated to minimise disruption to members, golfers and staff, allowing the Club to continue operating while the refurbishment and extension works progressed.

Challenging Ground Conditions

The project also presented significant challenges due to poor ground conditions and a high water table. These conditions resulted in delays to elements of the construction programme and required the implementation of dewatering systems to facilitate the works safely and effectively.

Despite these challenges, careful planning, coordination and project management enabled the principal works to be successfully delivered and the completed facilities handed back to the Golf Club on time.

Completed Project

The completed project has transformed and modernised the clubhouse while respecting the heritage and character of Royal St George’s. The combination of refurbished spaces, new facilities and upgraded building services has created a more functional, comfortable and contemporary environment for members, visitors and staff.

The phased approach enabled the Golf Club to remain operational throughout the project, while the successful integration of the new-build elements with the existing clubhouse ensured that the development retained the distinctive character of this prestigious venue.