Ellis Golf Course Clubhouse

Cedar Rapids, IA


When a 2020 derecho windstorm destroyed the clubhouse on this 120-year-old municipal golf course, it opened the door for a new gathering space that would better serve the community. In a tribute to the trees lost in the natural disaster, OPN Architects chose to prominently feature wood in their design, with an exposed structural wood roof deck supported by steel beams. The new ADA-accessible clubhouse is organized around a broad, continuous porch created by a single-slope roof that forms an overhang covering the patio. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the pro shop, concessions area, and event space allow golfers to look onto the course, and the building’s orientation allows it to capitalize on views of the beautiful 18th hole and pond. The new clubhouse will help course managers attract golf tournaments to the area while also providing a space for community and private events. With rooftop solar panels, the facility is on track to meet Net Zero Energy targets. 


Watch a short one-minute video of this project, which was selected as a 2023 Wood Design Awards winner. View the full award gallery here.

Version History
  • Project uploaded by WoodWorks Innovation Network (WIN) on 03-16-2023
  • Project last updated by WoodWorks Innovation Network (WIN) on 06-10-2024
Project Details
  • Year Built

    2022

  • Number Of Stories

    1

  • Bldg system

    Mass Timber

  • Square footage

    7,500

  • Construction Type:

    V-B

  • Building Type:

    Civic (Recreational)

  • Material Types:

    Mass Timber
    Hybrid (wood with steel or concrete)

Project Team
  • City of Cedar Rapids Developer/Building Owner
  • OPN Architects Architect
  • Septagon Construction General Contractor
  • Structural Design Group, LLC Structural Engineer
Version History
  • Project uploaded by WoodWorks Innovation Network (WIN) on 03-16-2023
  • Project last updated by WoodWorks Innovation Network (WIN) on 06-10-2024
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