Augusta National Golf Club plans major clubhouse renovation, addition

Augusta National Golf Club is planning a major renovation and addition to its historic clubhouse, according to plans filed with the city of Augusta.

A site plan filed by Cran­ston Engineering Group indicates the club, which plays host to the Masters Tour­nament, intends to demolish a portion of the existing building, including the kitchen area, and an adjacent building on the northeast side of the clubhouse to make way for the new structure. Bob Austin, of Augusta Planning and Development, said the plan shows a large, two-level structure will be built, with the lower level sitting below grade.

“Looks like they are doing some major renovations to the existing clubhouse,” Austin said after reviewing the plans, which were filed in May.

Austin said the plans did not indicate the square footage of the proposed structure but that it appeared to be substantial.

Augusta National spokesman Steve Ethun could not provide any details on the plans, saying the private club does not comment on internal improvement projects.

Marshall Masters, of Augusta Licensing and Inspection, said there have been discussions with club representatives about the project but that no building plans had been filed, nor had any permits been requested.

The building that became the clubhouse was constructed in 1854 as the home of indigo plantation owner Dennis Redmond, according to club history. The plans do not indicate any changes to the iconic original structure.

Several changes and additions have been made to the clubhouse through the years, including the addition in 1946 of a bachelor wing, suites building, trophy room and kitchen. A golf shop was added in 1953, and the grill room was added in 1962, according to club literature. The remodeling in 2003 of the grill room and locker room was the last major change.