FACILITY MASTER PLAN & LOOKBOOK
PRESIDENT’S LETTER
Palo Alto Hills Golf &Country Club is a unique gem on the peninsula. Our nationally recognized golf course, state-of-the-art Wellness Center, exceptional Membership, innovative yearround programming, and experienced senior management team set us apart We are privileged to be part of a club that offers outstanding amenities and is committed to continuous improvement.
Your feedback is invaluable to us Our recent member surveys have played a critical role in guiding our efforts to enhance dining, golf, and fitness services. We encourage you to continue sharing your experiences, as your insights are essential for our ongoing improvement.
Our remarkable topography and enchanting surroundings enhance the experience of all our amenities In our pursuit of improvement, we now have the opportunity to create a clubhouse that meets our members’ needs, capitalizes on the scenic views, attracts future members, and enhances operational workflows. In addition to our best-in-class fitness center and golf course, we would also feature a premier clubhouse
Thanks to the diligent efforts of the LongRange Planning Committee, our conceptual Master Planaims to address the shortcomings of our current facilities andcreate a clubhouse that will serve our members well into the future. The design will revamp the ballroom, create space for new amenities, equalize offerings for different membership categories, and provide an inspiring center for relaxation and socialization that maximizes our exceptional surroundings. Our member experience will be enhanced with modern locker rooms, a spacious members’ bar, fine dining, private dining, and expanded outdoor dining options with protection from wind and sun.
What truly distinguishes us is our unique setting and breathtaking views, both of which are unparalleled. Other nearby clubs lack the scenic views we enjoy, endure significant road noise, and do not provide the overall on-site experience we receive daily. The Master Plan Concepts take
advantage of our location by incorporating more outdoor seating areas and designing the clubhouse to maximize views. With our unique setting and vistas, we have the potential to create an experience that no other club can match, elevating our enjoyment at Palo Alto Hills.
Many members have expressed the need for significant improvements to our facilities, which aligns with the feedback collected over the past two years. We anticipate that the Master Plan Concepts will address the needs of our membership, and feedback received through the recent Town Hall, Fireside Chats, and surveys supports this While we will always seek and welcome membership feedback, we are currently drafting an alternate Racquets Center plan and tightening up some loose ends
around other exterior plan elements, including the pool and Axe’s / Pedro’s. From there, we will introduce these updated concepts and announce a timeline for member voting.
The opportunities ahead of us are fantastic. Let’s seize the opportunity to propel our Club forward and position ourselves as leaders in our community, beyond the reach of others.
Greg Goumas President, Board of Directors
PROJECT VISION & SCOPE
Club Vision Statement: Offer a premier private club experience in an innovative, family-friendly, diverse community.
Palo Alto Hills Golf & Country Club is a home away from home for our membership. As we look toward the future of our club and build on the success of our outstanding golf course renovation, it is time to consider how a clubhouse renovation can transform the member experience.
A healthy club remains dynamic. The best clubs have long-range and capital plans and continually invest in improvements. The Long-Range Planning (LRP) Committee, the Board of Directors, and the Capital Formation Group worked closely with architects, cost estimators, engineers, and city officials for over a year to craft these master plan concepts. Their efforts have been thorough andcollaborative, attempting to leave no stone unturned in their discovery process.
The proposed redesign responds to our existing members’ needs and looks ahead to the comprehensive experience a future member might seek when considering a club to join on the Peninsula. We aim to create a series of spaces to enhance every element of your visit, whether you are coming to the club to dine, relax, meet friends for a round of golf, exercise, grab a drink, practice your swing, play pickleball, or drop off your kids for swim lessons.
The overall design flips the script of our clubhouse’s existing layout, making the north end a center of member amenities enhanced by the most rewarding views over the golf course, coastal mountain range, and the Bay. Private event and administration spaces are bundled in the southern endfor improved operational flows. A breezeway serves as a spine through the center of the clubhouse for direct access to the pool area and Axe’s, and it’s a natural dividing line between the bustling banquet and private events spaces and the member-focused areas.
Surveyed members also rated environment and sustainability as important or very important. Therefore, the Master Plan Concepts use the latest sustainable design materials and processes. A classic coastal California architectural aesthetic anchors the clubhouse amidst the natural surroundings of our unique location.
Responding to Member Feedback
2023 Survey Results
87% of members 86% wanted to 84% said patio dining 83% want high 83% requested 78% said we need 78% want Axe’s said we need optimize views. should always be quality destination improvements that to improve the Place improved. to improve the available. dining. enhance services. locker rooms. clubhouse ambiance and decor.
ADDITIONAL MEMBER FEEDBACK
* Members were sensitive to the needs and wants of both current and future members.
* Members spoke to providing additional amenities that would appeal to both current and future members.
MEMBER FEEDBACK INDICATED THAT:
Making Our Entire Facilitythe Best of the Best
• Best-in-class amenities already in place:
• Best Golf Course
• Best Wellness Center
• Best Setting
• The best clubhouse would put us firmly at the top of the regional marketplace
It’s About You
• We lack the scope of amenities offered by local clubs
• Many of our amenities and facilities are showing their age
It’s About the Future
• Our 20-year useful life study mandates that we take action
• Our fully depreciated clubhouse faces $6.5M over 8 years in spending just to maintain the status quo.
Timing is Everything
• In 2030, a new commercial construction mandate will raise construction costs by up to 20%.
• Local clubs have capitally invested and continue to invest heavily
• We either invest and surpass local clubs or fall further behind.
Our Vision
This Plan supports our vision to remain competitive and responsive to member needs. Upscale, discreet, sustainable, and enduring, we aim to create a world-class clubhouse that fulfills our members' needs and serves as a stunning destination that complements its surroundings.
PROJECT & PLANNING PARTNERS
LONG-RANGE PLANNING COMMITTEE
Ed Feitzinger Board Liaison
Andy Hannelly* Committee Chair
Kimberly Lin*
Sophia Oh-Kim
Wes Okumura*
Gene Buick*
Craig Jones
Linda Thomas
Paul Chiu*
CAPITAL FORMATION GROUP
Greg Goumas Board Liaison & Chair
KV Rao*
Paul Chiu
Scott Baird
Neil Kell
Andrew Stephens
PROFESSIONAL TEAM
Architects Hassel & Warrane
Structural Holmes
Civil/Geotechnical BKF
MEP Taylor Engineers
Environmental Atelier 10
Club Consultant Club Resources
LookBook & Floor Plans JamiesonMae Communications
2023 LONG-RANGE PLANNING COMMITTEE
Greg Goumas Board Liaison
Tom Shea Committee Chair
Jessica Lockhart
Christy Park
*participated on 2023 Long-Range Planning Committee
GROUNDFLOORPLAN
BALLROOM
PEDRO’S
LOCKER ROOMS
MEMBER ENTRY
RECEPTION
STARTER’S LOUNGE
PRO SHOP
GOLF SIMULATOR LOUNGE
BALLROOM ENTRY
ASENSEOF ARRIVAL
More Immediate exclusivity to the Member Experience
• Separate entrances for Members and private event attendees
• Breezeway between the ballroom and the Members’ clubhouse
MEMBER ENTRY & RECEPTION
MEMBER’S ENTRY & RECEPTION
BALLROOM ENTRY
BallroomEntry
Ground Floor, South
• Elegant, dedicated entrance for private events
Member’sEntry & Reception
Ground Floor, North
• Reserved for Members and their invited guests
• Expanded and more easily visible concierge desk & seating area
EVENTS BALLROOM
Ground Floor, Southwest
An elegant and refined space for private events and member galas dedicated to creating memories.
Refined and versatile Events Ballroom
• Designed for large member events, private functions, and formal galas.
• Classic, understated design allows for flexible décor customization.
• Tall windows and glass doors offer expansive views of the coastal mountains.
• Access to an outdoor patio enhances space and sunset ambiance for evening events.
Functional layout and flow
• A long bar anchors the north end of the room.
• The ballroom layout remains unchanged and is adjacent to the current events kitchen.
• New nearby restrooms help contain the event footprint, enhancing the overall clubhouse experience.
TALL TREES2.0
Ground Floor, Southeast
Upgraded small event space
• Positioned at a higher elevation to enhance South Bay views.
• Features floor-to-ceiling windows with improved window treatments for natural light and elegance.
• Easily adaptable for a variety of events and meetings.
• Located near restrooms and the events kitchen for convenience.
• Just steps from the Events Ballroom, making it ideal as a staging or overflow space for larger events
A smaller event space for more intimate gatherings and meetings, or a staging space for largerevents in the Ballroom.
TALL TREES 2.0
EVENTS BALLROOM
GOLF SIMULATOR LOUNGE
Ground Floor, Northeast
Dual-purpose space: instruction and socializing
• Designed both for instruction and as a social hub.
• Includes three simulators with semipartitioned areas and comfortable lounge seating.
Flexible use throughout the day
• Mornings focus on instruction and skill development.
• Afternoons and evenings offer casual play on virtual courses worldwide, along with socializing and food and beverage service.
A dual-purpose space for instruction and casual socializing over virtual rounds of golf.
GOLF SIMULATOR LOUNGE
STARTER’S LOUNGE PRO SHOP
STARTER’S LOUNGE +PRO SHOP
Ground Floor, Northwest
Gathering point before your round
• Located next to the Men’s and Women’s Locker Rooms with views of the practice green, 1st tee, and 9th green.
• Outfitted with lounge furniture, coffee/tea service, and interactive touchscreens displaying weather, course conditions, and scores.
• Lounge flows into the Pro Shop to browse merchandise, sign up for events, and engage with staff.
Enhanced experience
• Livestream cameras offer views of the 1st hole.
• Direct access to the golf cart staging area when it's time for your round.
Enjoy a cup of coffee and check the weather, course conditions, and scores, or browse the Pro Shop while waiting for your tee time.
PRO SHOP
LEVELTWO FLOOR PLAN
A LA CARTE KITCHEN
DINING
Views toward hole #18 and coastal mountains
ELEVATED INDOOR DINING
ROOFTOP FOOD GARDEN
CASUAL INDOOR DINING
SKYLIGHT TO THE LOBBY
Views toward hole #9 and San Francisco
COVERED, ENCLOSABLE OUTDOOR DINING
UNCOVERED PATIO DINING
Views toward practice tee and South Bay
MEMBERS BAR & CASUAL DINING
Second Floor, Northwest
All-weather gathering space
• Contiguous indoor and outdoor seating with 270-degree views
• Drop-down shades for year-round enjoyment with sun and shade protection
OUTDOOR DINING TERRACE
Exceptional service and dining
• Features an à la carte kitchen to maintain a high level of service and food quality.
• It's the perfect spot to unwind after golf or work, enjoy sunsets with a cocktail, or take a break from daily responsibilities.
Unwind and enjoy the views, dine, and socialize.
MEMBERS BAR CASUAL DINING
OUTDOOR
DINING
TERRACE
CASUAL DINING
ELEVATED DINING
Second Floor, Southwest
Boutique-bistro style dining
• Designed for a quieter, intimate dining experience, perfect for a night out or special occasions.
• Enjoy the same menu throughout the clubhouse, but in a more sophisticated setting.
• Located near the Members Bar, with an à la carte kitchen on the same level for top-tier service.
Dine in style and watch the sunset over the Hills.
PRIVATE DINING ROOM
Second Floor, Southeast
Exclusive, intimate space
• Accommodates up to 14 people for private dining or meetings.
• Close to the bar and à la carte kitchen for seamless service.
• Sleek, modern décor enhanced by a wine wall featuring our best vintages.
• Large windows offer stunning views of the South Bay and a bountiful rooftop garden.
Create a bespoke dining experience for your party, nestled away in this quiet, private room.
ELEVATED DINING
PRIVATE DINING
BASEMENT
Lower Level
Optimized storage space
• Golf Cart storage is along the eastern end of the basement.
• Expanded storage for clubs and pushcarts in the northwest corner to hold 650 bags, 275 pushcarts, and 200 pushcart batteries.
• Dedicated, climate-controlled Wine Cellar to centralize wine stock and improve inventory control and operations.
• The basement also houses club merchandise and overflow stock from the Golf Shop.
• The Maintenance Facility and office remain in the southwest corner.
A reorganized basement that optimizes the space and emphasizes more storage for golf carts, clubs, and push carts.
PLACE
AXE’S PLACE, PEDRO’S +
BOCCE
GROUND FLOOR
• Located just beyond the breezeway, a new, revamped outdoor patio experience
• A casual and relaxed setting to enjoy food and drinks from Pedro’s
• Bocce courts – a fun new dynamic
POOL AREA ENHANCEMENTS
GROUND FLOOR
• Resort-style renovations with a beach style pool entry for easier access for all ages
• Lane swimming and diving remain
• Upgraded patio featuring: Soft greenscaped areas
Beachfront-style lounges
Private cabanas
• New children’s area with:
Play structure including a small climbing wall and splash pad
Ample shaded space for all-day comfort
PLACE
TENNIS & PICKLEBALL
RACQUET SPORTS AREA
• Expanded and resurfaced to include:
4 dedicated pickleball courts
2 tennis courts (convertible to 3 tournamentready courts)
• Future-ready: Evaluating potential footings for a conceptual future pickleball pavilion
PLACE
THE LOOKOUT
GOLF COURSE REST STATION
REFRESHED & ENHANCED
• Upgrades:
Food & Beverage station
Restrooms
• Additions:
Airstream mobile kitchen
Communal seating
TIMELINE,ZONESOFWORK& BUDGET
As this timeline shows, there will be no impact on the golf course and driving range during the four years of construction. Similarly, there will be zero impact on these recreation facilities Kids Zone, Fitness Center, Spa, Hot Tub, Pickleball and Tennis. The Pool will not be available for a short period, from January-April in 2026, but this is during winter months.
2028
The impact from construction will be most apparent from late 2027 to mid 2029 in our dining, bar and event spaces, but during that time the disruption will be minimal and services will remain available
2029
DesignOptionsAll-In Costs
Summary of Project Costs
• All-in costs encompass all design and planning fees, construction management, 4% annual inflation, and landscaping.
• A cost consultant created these estimates, which were subsequently revised by a member with 35 years of experience in commercial construction, leading to a conservative cost estimate. We did not attempt to cut corners to meet a budget.
Costs listed above include inflationary, architectural, and component costs, but are subject to change
Ballroom&North End Costs to Membership at $58.1M
Temporary Capital Dues
$65,000 payable in two options: $59,000 total if paid by December 1, 2025, or 48 monthly payments of $1,350 + approximately 7% interest
($1,449)
$160 per month for duration of outstanding loan beginning 1/1/2029
Legacy & Young Professional: $250 per month for 6 years, beginning 1/1/2027
• While some elements of the plan could stand alone as individual projects, we must also enhance the Ballroom to fully renovate the North End. A new North End of the clubhouse would address many operational issues once and for all. While it might be tempting to revert to cheaper, temporary fixes, those will never resolve our fundamental and ongoing challenges.
Refundable Capital Dues
Proprietary member payments (excluding interest) are fully refundable for all transfers completed by November 30, 2029.
SELECT FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHY WERE THESE TWO SPECIFIC IMPROVEMENTS CHOSEN OVER THE OTHER POTENTIAL PROJECTS? (BANQUET VS SWIM OR RACQUET, ETC.)
For decades, PAHGCC has debated how to fix the challenges with the existing clubhouse. The LRP and the current board believe that the presented options provide an opportunity to enhance the clubhouse experience for good We want to hear from members whether this is what they want. We don’t want a decision on this to get lost in smaller projects that don’t solve the issues we face today regarding fundamental flow, views, separation of events from the member experience, etc.
IS THE ADDITIONAL $6 MILLION FOR ADD-ON PROJECTS DEPENDENT ON MEMBER APPROVAL?
The core project is the Clubhouse North End, Ballroom, Axe’s, and Pedro’s, and is projected to cost $58.1m. The add-on projects – Pool and Youth Area renovation and a Racquets Center with more capacity – are additional projects to vote upon. Contingent upon membership approval of the core project, a vote of at least 50% of the membership for the Pool and/or Racquets will then result in activation of one or both of these add-ons. The Pool renovation is projected to cost an additional $4m to the core project, and Racquets will cost an additional $2m. It’s economically beneficial to incorporate the Racquets Center planning and construction with North End construction, so that’s a logical addition. The Pool ties all of the buildings together
WHAT HAPPENS TO THE KIDDIE POOL?
Our initial plan, subject to member feedback and the final design, would be to install a Bocce court where the current underutilized play structure is located The plan would be to install a smaller play structure near the cabana-style pool seating. The Kiddie Pool is partially situated in that area. An issue with the current Kiddie Pool is that a parent with two small children has to choose between watching the shallow end with their older child or sitting in the kiddie pool. By extending the shallow pool area near the steps to form a “beach-style” pool entrance, toddlers can play in the shallows while older siblings can be within sight. This would extend the pool slightly toward the 18th green in that area.
WHY DIDN’T WE LOOK AT PUTTING PICKLEBALL COURTS ELSEWHERE?
We did. Options for placing them in the parking lot fragmented the racquet and fitness experience, increased foot traffic, and didn’t address longer-term concerns about pickleball noise.
WHY DID WE CHOOSE THIS STYLE OF BUILDING?
The architects selected a design that would enable us to tie the existing buildings with the new construction in a way that created a cohesive look for the entire complex and more naturally blends into our unique surroundings. In this manner, the clubhouse would not adopt a cookie-cutter look, like many other clubs.
WILL THERE BE ANY GOLF COURSE CLOSURES DUE TO THE PROJECT?
No. We don’t anticipate any golf course closures outside the annual golf course aerification maintenance practices to which we are already accustomed.
WHAT WILL BE THE IMPACT ON GOLF OPERATIONS?
There would be no impact during the ballroom remodel. Golf Operations would be on a temporary footing during North End construction. After completion, there will be less cart staging for large events, allowing carts to be staged along the cart paths and potentially on the event lawn during events with maximum cart deployment. Golf operations efficiency will improve with easier access to pushcarts, clubs, and on-site charging of pushcart batteries.
WILL WE HAVE A DINING ROOM AND BAR OPEN DURING NORTH END CONSTRUCTION?
Yes, we will utilize the Ballroom for dining. The dining room and Members’ Bar will be open during the Ballroom remodel.
WHAT HAPPENS TO PEDRO’S DURING THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW MEMBERS' CLUBHOUSE?
We plan to purchase an elegant food truck trailer (think: Airstream food truck) and use that as Pedro’s during construction. Upon completion, that trailer would be used on the course for special events such as Lookout BBQs.
WILL WE HAVE PUSHCART AND GOLF BAG STORAGE DURING THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE MEMBERS' CLUBHOUSE?
We planned for golf bag storage, likely in the back of the temporary pro shop facilities. The facilities will feature security fencing that is not visible to members, allowing us to securely lock and store merchandise and clubs. We will have to assess how much room we have for pushcart storage.
DO OUR BYLAWS SUPPORT THIS, OR DO WE NEED TO CHANGE THEM TO MAKE THIS HAPPEN?
Our interpretation of the bylaws, subject to further legal review, is that we need a majority of proprietary members to vote to approve the final proposal to proceed. The board cannot make this decision unilaterally, nor does it want to. This is a member decision, and while only proprietary members are allowed to vote on Capital Dues per the bylaws, we also want to hear from Social, YP, Legacy, and Emeritus members
WILL THE SCOPE OF THIS PROJECT MEAN THAT ONGOING INVESTMENT IN THE GOLF COURSE GETS SUSPENDED?
We are currently enacting the water sustainability plan, drafting a course drainage plan and tree management plan, and researching other course improvements. We intend to maintain the course at its current or better level and provide the funds through transfer fees and the possible implementation of monthly obligatory capital dues.
WILL MEMBERSHIP SALE PRICES BE REDUCED DURING CONSTRUCTION?
The current bylaws allow the board to set minimum membership sale prices, and the board does not intend to materially lower membership prices now or at any time during the planning and construction phases. The priority policy of letting member prices decrease to zero net asset value for the members is not productive in the short or long term and creates a rush to the door. We expect a substantial sell list to build, and we don’t anticipate that list will abate until the northern end approaches completion. We have modeled the financial impact of this and have two prior capital dues and construction periods (Fitness, Golf Course) to use as references, and a local club’s recent experience with a full course closure.
HOW WERE THE COSTS GENERATED, AND WHY DO YOU THINK WE WON’T OVERRUN THIS BY 25-50% LIKE MANY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS?
A professional cost consultant was hired to prepare an estimate for each proposed project The LRPC reviewed these estimates to provide insight into current market conditions and unit costs. In addition, cost items such as design contingency, cost escalation, temporary facilities (including club storage and a temporary pro shop), and others were also added.
WHY DO MOST NON-PROPRIETARY MEMBERS HAVE TO PAY?
We asked social members to contribute to the Fitness Center, so we found it equitable to do the same, given that Social, YP, and Legacy members will use all the facilities in question, including the driving range.
HOW MUCH OF THE FUNDING WILL COME FROM CLUB DEBT, AND HOW WILL IT AFFECT THE CLUB’S FINANCIAL HEALTH?
This has been an excellent topic for discussion in the Fireside Chat sessions. The board believes that the upper limit on debt at a 7% interest rate is $28.5M, althoughultimately it will depend on what banks tell us they are comfortable financing based on how much debt we can support. A chart is provided herein to compare temporary capital dues to debt, helping the membership ultimately make an informed decision.
WHAT HAPPENS IF A SIGNIFICANT PORTION OF MEMBERS OPPOSE ANY ASPECT OF THE PROPOSED PLANS, OR AN EVENTUAL VOTE FAILS?
The next board would likely reconstitute a new LRP team with the mandate delivered by a majority of members. It will likely take another year for the new team to catch up with what was already done, hire a new architect, and propose newer (presumably smaller-scale) plans.
WILL THE CLUBHOUSE, GOLF FACILITIES, OR POOL REMAIN ACCESSIBLE DURING CONSTRUCTION?
Most facilities would remain open during ballroom construction, including à la carte dining, locker rooms, pro shop, Pedro’s, the golf course, wellness center, racquets, and the pool. During North End construction, the golf course, wellness center, pool, and ballroom would be open the latter for à la carte dining and member events.
WHO WILL DESIGN THE INTERIORS? HOW WERE THEY CHOSEN?
An interior designer has not been chosen, given that we do not yet have a project approved by the membership, and that would have been an unnecessary expenditure of funds.
HOW WILL THIS NEW CLUBHOUSE DESIGN ENHANCE THE DELIVERY OF SERVICE OR RESULT IN REDUCTIONS IN COSTS?
1. The project aims to improve the member experience while mindful of operating costs. Delivery of service is aided in manyways:
2. An à la carte kitchen will be adjacent to all dining spaces: the Member Bar, Casual Dining, Elevated Dining, and Private Dining.
3. Wine storage will be in one central location, improving efficiencies compared to multiple locations.
4. Golf bag and pushcart storage will be increased.
5. The Starters Lounge will provide a relaxed, elevated space to gather and/or meet guests pre-round.
6. Pedro’s will now be closer to the 10th tee for easy access for golfers making the turn.
Regarding costs, a draft and preliminary operational budget proforma have been prepared, and average dues are increasing roughly in line with our historical averages of annual dues increases.
HOW WILL THESE IMPROVEMENTS ENHANCE OUR COMPETITIVENESS WITH OTHER PRIVATE CLUBS IN THE AREA?
The reasons are several-fold. First, and in its more basic element, this keeps us updated with the high rate of capital spending by local clubs. Second, a contemporary clubhouse with forward-looking amenities complements our best-in-class wellness center and golf course; this trifecta will position us at or near the top of peninsula clubs. Additionally, if the membership decides to invest in racquets, the club will be complete in terms of competitiveness for new, current, and future members
Finally, capital investment will keep us positioned as one of the best on the peninsula for generations to come; not investing will cause us to slide in terms of quality of facilities, value for membership, and initiation fees.
HOW WILL MEMBERS WHO USE THE FACILITIES LESS FREQUENTLY BENEFIT FROM THIS INVESTMENT?
As club owners, it’s incumbent upon all of us to invest in the club's present and future to ensure its longevity and success. Withenhanced facilities and amenities, alongwiththecurrent positive trajectory inservice, webelievewe’re providingmembers even more reasons togather andenjoytheclubinwhatever capacity they choose.
MOREINFORMATION&RESOURCES
IfWe’re Going to do This, Let’s do it Right.
The opinions and views of our members are crucial to the success of this project We invite and encourage you to review the online materials via the QR code, engage with the process, and be a part of the future of PAHGCC
Please visit the microsite online for more information, including a video of the Town Hall presentation, a 3D flythrough video of the new clubhouse and surrounding amenities, and additional detailed documents.
You are also welcome to contact members of the LRP Committee, Board President Greg Goumas, or General Manager David Conforti.