Help Your Patrons Take in the View

It's been proven that a person's happiness is greater when surrounded by natural environments (for the research click here) So whether your club is located in the middle of a bustling metropolis or surrounded by a towering mountain range, it's the view outside your window that sets your patrons at ease. But just being able to look out of a window has its limitations, and nothing is quite like sitting right in the middle of the great outdoors.

In an article featured in Club & Resort Business, author Brandi Shaffer writes "While updated patios are rarely the sole focus of club renovations, they can provide supplemental social space as a surprising and welcome bonus.. These outdoor spaces can also serve as destinations in and of themselves." Below are three tips to consider when tackling open air renovations from Brandi's article in Club & Resort Business.

1. "Using design elements that mirror the clubhouse's interior and exterior helps newly created patios look like a more cohesive part of the property"
2. "Offer a variety of furniture options, from high-top tables to low soft seating, to give members the opportunity to choose how to use the space"
3. "Highlight the aspects of the patio that make your club distinct – whether it's an enormous tree, a walk-up bar, or the clubhouse's unique architecture."

The stunning landscape golf provides is found almost anywhere, and creating a versatile patio space can add value to your membership. The versatility an open area provides can be great for a variety of occasions. Consider your facility's open air space a window into your club's own masterpiece. The Country Club of Mobile did just that with a recent update of their outdoor activity areas. They had the help of Gallo Design Group to create an enjoyable area for their patrons. Gallo has had success fitting the prestigious country club with outdoor furniture in the past. Gallo's keen eye for creative open air space use has helped the Country Club of Mobile provide outdoor furniture for both the pool and snack bar area.

When John Waldron, General Manager of the Country Club of Mobile saw a need to improve the patio overlooking the esteemed course - John knew exactly where to look. "What we have out there now is 15 year old grated iron tables and chairs, they are bulky and outdated. We decided it is time to get fresh new products and we had worked with Gallo Design Group in the past and knew they had a great, affordable product," said John.

What did John and the Country Club of Mobile hope the outdoor furniture from Gallo Design Group would bring to the patio space? "Last year we added a couple samples from Gallo and we noticed people would show up much earlier to get those tables. When the patio space is finished it will be much more attractive, comfortable, lighter weight, and aesthetically pleasing."

How does John feel the outdoor space adds value to the country club's membership? "What our patrons like about the outdoor eating area is that when it is nice, their kids can run to their hearts content, and they can enjoy the view in chairs that are comfortable." Upgrading your open air space adds value and happiness to membership at your club. Not only this, but it also offers patrons a window into the course your maintenance staff manicures so flawlessly.

Are you interested in upgrading your open air space with Gallo Design Group and VGM Club? Contact your VGM Club Rep, or visit VGMClub.com for more information.