Kamakura Clubhouse Redefines Golf and Leisure Spaces

Innovative design blends tradition, technology, and wellness for modern club life

Set atop a hill in Kamakura City, the Kamakura Country Club’s new clubhouse offers a transformative experience for golf enthusiasts and lifestyle seekers alike. The project, completed between March 2021 and January 2023, responds to the evolving needs of club members by providing a “third place”—a space beyond home and office—where individuals can seamlessly blend work, relaxation, and sport. This vision is realized through Japan’s first mobile workplace within a golf clubhouse, allowing members to work remotely, enjoy a round of golf, or simply unwind amid panoramic views of the Shonan Sea and Yokohama City.

Hijung Kasuya’s design is distinguished by its thoughtful integration of tradition and innovation. The clubhouse’s facade and interior feature castle-inspired stone walls, crafted in collaboration with skilled masons despite pandemic-era challenges. These walls serve as enduring symbols of the club’s founding spirit, bridging the past and present. Inside, a striking zelkova tree stump, preserved from the original site, stands as a sculptural centerpiece in the atrium, juxtaposed with minimalist lighting to evoke a narrative of continuity and renewal.

Functionality is at the heart of the clubhouse’s design. The facility is equipped with a comprehensive fitness room, premium lounge, and versatile spaces for reading, studying, or remote work. The use of natural underground water, purified through an advanced distillation system, underscores the commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency—an essential feature given the hilltop location. This system ensures uninterrupted service and enhances the overall sense of well-being for members.

The renovation encompasses all floors and the rooftop, with a total interior area of 1,320 square meters. Earthquake-resistant structural upgrades further demonstrate a dedication to safety and longevity. The design team’s research focused on redefining club life, resulting in a flexible environment where members can enjoy both solitary and social moments, reinforcing the clubhouse’s role as a hub for community and personal enrichment.

Kamakura’s renewed clubhouse has garnered international acclaim, earning the Bronze A' Design Award in 2025 for its creative ingenuity and positive impact on quality of life. By blending architectural heritage, modern amenities, and innovative technology, the project sets a new benchmark for golf clubhouses, offering a model of how leisure spaces can adapt to contemporary lifestyles while honoring their roots.

The Kamakura Country Club’s revitalized clubhouse invites members to experience a harmonious balance of tradition, innovation, and wellness—an inspiring blueprint for the future of club life in Japan and beyond.