Mike Wolanin | The Republic
A view of the clubhouse at Otter Creek Golf Course in Columbus, Ind., Friday, May 7, 2021.
Landmark Columbus Foundation, in collaboration with architecture firm TenBerke, has launched the Progressive Preservation Planning Grant, a targeted initiative to assess and revitalize the historic Otter Creek Clubhouse.
Designed in 1964 by modernist architect Harry Weese, the Otter Creek Clubhouse features expansive glass walls, warm wood interiors and distinctive shed roofs, and complements the Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed golf course. In 2022, the city of Columbus sold the course to locally owned Architerra.
Through the grant, Landmark Columbus Foundation and Architerra have engaged renowned architecture firm TenBerke to analyze the clubhouse. The study aims to evaluate the building’s current functionality and explore opportunities for enhancements that align with the evolving needs of the golf course and its patrons.
The collaboration reflects the foundation’s dedication to Progressive Preservation, a philosophy honoring historical significance while embracing a community-based approach for adaptively reusing properties. The initiative exemplifies Columbus’ ongoing commitment to architectural excellence and progressive preservation, and the project is anticipated to serve as a model for communities across the nation in integrating historic preservation with modern functionality, according to Landmark Columbus officials.
“Progressive preservation means more than simply maintaining historic structures – it is about fostering dynamic, evolving spaces that serve contemporary community needs while honoring their past,” Executive Director of Landmark Columbus Foundation Richard McCoy said. “By partnering with Otter Creek to engage TenBerke in this effort, we are setting a new standard for preservation that is innovative and deeply rooted in community values.”
Owner and CEO of Otter Creek Golf Course Bob Haddad Jr. said they want to do their best to honor J. Irwin Miller’s vision for Columbus and Otter Creek, so as they begin revitalizing the golf course, their facilities must reflect the same excellence.
“Evaluating the clubhouse’s role in our future ensures we continue to offer an unparalleled experience to our guests,” Haddad Jr. said. “We will always endeavor to make Otter Creek historic, memorable and fun.”
TenBerke Principal Aaron Plewke said the firm is thrilled to work with Otter Creek and Landmark Columbus Foundation on this transformative project.
“We recognize that the clubhouse must evolve to meet contemporary needs, but it can do so in a way that respects the architectural integrity of Weese’s design and honors the important legacy of this place,” Plewke said.
TenBerke’s work began late last year and will finish this spring. Landmark Columbus Foundation has already secured $90,000 toward the $180,000 required to fund TenBerke’s evaluation of this project. Fundraising is continuing to grow the fund. Those interested in contributing to the fund may visit landmarkcolumbusfoundation.org or contact McCoy via email at richard@landmarkcolumbus.org.
