The new clubhouse at La Réserve Golf Links at Heritage Golf Club, Mauritius, is rapidly taking shape. Designed by world renowned architects, Perrot & Richard, whose projects also include the Grand Palais in Paris and the Monte Carlo Opera in Monaco, the clubhouse is due to be complete in time for the official opening of La Réserve Golf Links in December 2023 – the first and only contemporary links course in the Indian Ocean.
In this interview, Florent Richard, Associate Director at Perrot & Richard, shares the design inspirations for the new clubhouse, how it was conceptualised to promote sustainability and blend into its natural surroundings, while capitalising on the dramatic golf links and tropical Indian Ocean views to create an après golf haven.
What inspired the design of the new clubhouse at La Réserve Golf Links?
The new clubhouse is designed to reflect the unique characteristics of the golf course and its natural environment. It organically integrates with the natural beauty of the Bel Ombre estate, considering its environment, and is innovatively designed to emphasize the identity and complexity of the region. We wanted to create an environment where each visitor is able to embrace the space and feel a sense of belonging.
Is there a key feature to the clubhouse?
We wanted the clubhouse to blend seamlessly into its natural surrounds, so it was important to us to respect the unique typography and materials of the landscape in the design. To achieve this, a key aspect of the design was the building’s ‘green’ terrace, which symbolizes nature’s ability to reclaim and occupy every space. As members and guests will have access to this roof, views from different areas are carefully framed to offer spectacular perspectives, with vistas over the superb La Réserve Golf Links and out towards the Indian Ocean and overhangs towards the bay.
Tell us more about the particularities of the ‘green’ roof.
As well as offering incredible panoramic views of the estate and the Indian Ocean, the vegetated roof provides practical benefits such as rain water retention and improved thermal insulation.
Are there any other ‘green’ elements to the clubhouse?
Designed to promote natural ventilation, the clubhouse is connected to a central garden, located at the heart of the building, where endemic plant resources have also been used to draw in its natural surroundings and showcase the site’s heritage.
Environmentally respectful practices have been integral to the conception and build of the new clubhouse, including pollution prevention measures, water treatment practices, energy consumption and waste management, to name but a few. These are all implemented to minimize the impact on the environment, and make the building as efficient as possible with a minimal environmental impact.
What other materials were used?
Natural elements, such as rock and wood, are prevalent in every area of the clubhouse. Raw rocks are carved and artistically incorporated into the design, while raw wood is used for furniture and internal decoration. Developing and creating this raw-to-precious design approach gives an organic and authentic feel to the entire building.
How would you describe the overall experience of La Réserve Golf Links’ clubhouse?
We believe we have designed a clubhouse that seamlessly integrates the nature and beauty of the island of Mauritius, making it the heart of the player’s experience here at Heritage Golf Club. We wanted to create a space that realizes a harmonious relationship between humans and nature, whilst also being a great place to relax after a day on the links!