Landmark Columbus Foundation Launches Progressive Preservation Planning Grant in Collaboration with TenBerke
A strategic collaboration with TenBerke to care for and enhance a modernist icon, Otter Creek Clubhouse.
Otter Creek Clubhouse, photograph by Balthazar Korab, courtesy of Columbus Indiana Architectural Archives.
Columbus, Indiana — Landmark Columbus Foundation (LCF) is proud to announce the Progressive Preservation Planning Grant, a targeted initiative to assess and revitalize the historic Otter Creek Clubhouse. This endeavor underscores LCF’s commitment to caring for, celebrating, and advancing the cultural heritage of Columbus and like-minded communities.
Designed by esteemed modernist architect Harry Weese in 1964, the Otter Creek Clubhouse is celebrated for its seamless integration with the natural landscape, featuring expansive glass walls, warm wood interiors, and distinctive shed roofs. The clubhouse complements the Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed golf course, a premier public championship venue.
The Clubhouse entry experience is further enhanced by a double row of littleleaf linden trees, a contribution from legendary landscape architect Dan Kiley, reinforcing the site's thoughtful composition. The City of Columbus sold the course to locally-owned Architerra in the fall of 2022.
Through this grant, LCF and Architerra have engaged the 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. This collaboration reflects LCF's dedication to Progressive Preservation, a philosophy that honors historical significance while embracing a community-based approach for adaptively reusing properties.
"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," said Richard McCoy, Executive Director of Landmark Columbus Foundation. "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."
Bob Haddad Jr., owner and CEO of Otter Creek Golf Course, shared his vision: "We want to do our best to honor Mr. Miller’s vision for Columbus and Otter Creek. So, as we begin revitalizing the golf course, our 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. We will always endeavor to make Otter Creek Historic, Memorable, and Fun."
Aaron Plewke, Principal at TenBerke, expressed enthusiasm for the project: “We are 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."
This initiative exemplifies Columbus' ongoing commitment to architectural excellence and progressive preservation. The project is anticipated to serve as a model for communities nationwide in integrating historic preservation with modern functionality.
TenBerke’s work began late last year and will finish this spring. LCF has already secured $90,000 toward the $180,000 required to fund TenBerke’s evaluation of this project. As fundraising continues, LCF invites individuals, organizations, and philanthropic partners to support this vital endeavor and help grow the fund, which could be used for future projects. Contributions can be made through landmarkcolumbusfoundation.org, or by contacting: Richard McCoy via email at richard@landmarkcolumbus.org.
Media Contact
Jamie Goldsborough
jamie@landmarkcolumbus.org
About Landmark Columbus Foundation
Landmark Columbus Foundation (LCF) cares for, celebrates, and advances the cultural heritage of Columbus, Indiana. To fulfill its mission, LCF directs two locally engaged and globally connected programs that are interwoven in their impact and networks: Exhibit Columbus and Columbus Design Institute. landmarkcolumbusfoundation.org
About TenBerke
TenBerke is a New York-based architecture studio united by values. Bound by the promise that architecture must build toward dignity and decency, TenBerke believes that the truest measure of good design is the good that it does the world: imaginatively, sustainably, delightfully. Over time, TenBerke has built a wide range of projects for colleges and universities, cultural institutions, private residences, hotels, office and multifamily developments, and buildings for mission-driven clients. The firm’s most significant work includes the Distribution Headquarters for Cummins Inc. in Indianapolis, Indiana; 21c Museum Hotels across the South and Midwest of the U.S.; and the New Residential Colleges at Princeton University. TenBerke has won numerous awards, including a National Design Award from the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum. tenberke.com
About Otter Creek Clubhouse
Located in Columbus, Indiana, Otter Creek Clubhouse is an architectural landmark and a centerpiece of the historic Otter Creek Golf Course. Originally designed by renowned architect Harry Weese, the clubhouse serves as a gathering place for golfers and visitors, offering dining, event spaces, and stunning views of the Robert Trent Jones, Sr.-designed course. A key part of Columbus’ modernist heritage, Otter Creek Clubhouse continues to welcome guests for exceptional experiences in golf, dining, and hospitality. For more information, visit ottercreekgolf.com.
