Graham Baba’s Mass Timber Clubhouse Echoes Yakima’s Agrarian Roots

Seattle-based studio Graham Baba Architects has recently completed the striking Westwood Golf clubhouse and driving range refresh in Yakima, Washington. The innovative project draws deep inspiration from the agricultural heritage of the semi-arid, orchard-dense region.

This 12,000-square-foot facility serves as a minimalist nod to traditional agrarian structures while elevating modern recreational design. For more insights into how regional contexts shape modern facilities, check out our regional architecture archive.

Agrarian Roots and Structural Excellence

The two-level, L-shaped building incorporates robust mass timber panels, steel, and glued-laminated columns and beams. This material palette introduces exceptional warmth and depth that contrasts sharply with standard utility builds.

Mass Timber Innovation

The interior features a 20-foot clear span between columns to allow completely unencumbered golf swings for players. Reviewers exploring similar projects often appreciate checking out our architecture articles for deeper engineering breakthroughs.

The ground level houses a vibrant restaurant, bar, pro shop, and 14 driving range bays. Meanwhile, the upper floor accommodates another 14 high-tech simulation bays, a second bar, and an enclosed event space.

Exterior Craftsmanship and Sustainable Site Planning

The exterior is accented with Corten-steel shade screens and board-formed concrete walls that effectively soften the building’s profile. A broad terrace on the upper level overlooks the golf course and captures refreshing local cross breezes.

The sustainable site plan features a functional green roof and an advanced stormwater management system. This system channels rainwater directly into a designated pond for efficient summer irrigation, bridging eco-friendly practices with thoughtful home design and facility planning principles.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Golf clubhouse by Graham Baba nods to farm structures in rural Washington