The St. Petersburg Yacht Club, a cornerstone of the city's waterfront since 1917, is actively exploring significant changes to its downtown clubhouse. New conceptual designs have been unveiled, showing a potential three-story structure that aims to address modern challenges while honoring the club's rich heritage.
Key Takeaways
- Conceptual designs for a new St. Petersburg Yacht Club clubhouse have been presented to members.
- The proposed three-story building would replace the current structure at 11 Central Avenue.
- Three architectural styles are under consideration: Mediterranean, Modern, and Coastal Urbane.
- A key driver for redevelopment is the current building's low elevation, which is six feet below modern flood standards.
- Initial cost estimates for a complete rebuild are around $50 million.
Evaluating the Future of a Historic Landmark
The St. Petersburg Yacht Club stands at 11 Central Avenue, a site it has occupied for over a century. The existing Spanish Mission-style building, originally designed by George W. Stewart, has seen numerous updates over the years. Its most recent major renovation took place in 1989.
However, a critical issue has emerged: the building's elevation. It sits approximately six feet below current FEMA flood standards. This low elevation raises significant concerns about its resilience to storms and potential flood damage.
Did You Know?
The St. Petersburg Yacht Club was founded in 1909. Its first clubhouse, opened in 1917, was severely damaged by a hurricane in 1921, but members rebuilt it the following year.
Addressing Flood Risks and Future Resilience
A 2023 facilities study highlighted the flood risk. The study found that if storm damage ever exceeded 50% of the building’s appraised value, federal regulations would mandate its complete replacement. These findings prompted the club to initiate a comprehensive master plan in 2023.
"It was a five-plus-year vision of what the future of the club might look like," stated Commodore Christian Bergstrom. "At this point, we’re progressing along that path by looking at various concepts, whether that be a remodel, some other type of upgrade to the facilities, or a complete rebuild. Everything is still on the table."
This ongoing evaluation process considers various options. These include renovating the existing structure, making significant upgrades, or undertaking a full demolition and rebuild.
New Conceptual Designs Unveiled
During a town hall meeting on September 2nd, members received a first look at conceptual designs for a potential new clubhouse. West Palm Beach-based Spina O’Rourke + Partners created these renderings. They depict a modern, three-story building overlooking the downtown waterfront.
The presentation showcased three distinct architectural styles for a new clubhouse:
- Mediterranean: A classic, elegant aesthetic often seen in coastal regions.
- Modern: A sleek, contemporary design emphasizing clean lines and open spaces.
- Coastal Urbane: A style that blends elements of sophisticated urban design with a relaxed, maritime feel.
Design Philosophy
The proposed designs draw inspiration from the sea, sky, and sails. They aim to balance heritage with modern elegance. The vision includes sunlit spaces, refined materials, and nautical details. These elements are intended to create an environment where the club's history remains vibrant and the spirit of sailing endures for generations.
Amenities Across Three Levels
The proposed layout for a new clubhouse includes extensive amenities spread across its three levels, designed to enhance member experience and operational efficiency.
First Floor Features
The ground level would serve as the primary entry point and hub for essential services. Plans include a welcoming lobby and reception area. A ship store would offer nautical supplies and club merchandise. The heritage lounge and regatta room would provide spaces for social gatherings and events. A 1909-style dining room, reminiscent of the club's origins, is also planned, alongside a private locker room, a central kitchen, and outdoor dining areas.
Second Floor Spaces
The second floor focuses on event hosting and administrative functions. It would house a spacious ballroom with a dedicated pre-function room, ideal for larger gatherings. A bridal suite is also included, catering to wedding events. Members would have access to a library and gallery, a card room, and the commodore’s wine room. Administrative offices would also be located on this floor, along with an outdoor patio offering views.
Third Floor Recreation and Relaxation
The uppermost floor is envisioned as a recreational oasis. It would feature a vibrant tiki bar and a large pool area with a sundeck. A casual restaurant and snack bar would provide convenient dining options. Families would appreciate the dedicated kids’ room and a multi-purpose room. Locker rooms with outdoor showers and additional outdoor dining spaces would complete the amenities, maximizing the club's waterfront location.
Cost Estimates and Project Timeline
The main focus now is to obtain accurate cost estimates for each potential option. This includes the cost of hardening and elevating the current building versus the expense of a complete rebuild.
"The main focus right now is to get credible cost estimates for what each option would entail," Bergstrom emphasized. "Is it even possible to lift a 51,000-square-foot structure that was built in multiple phases? We are not sure yet."
A complete rebuild is currently estimated at approximately $50 million. However, Commodore Bergstrom clarified these figures are preliminary. He stressed that these numbers will undergo thorough review and revision as the process moves forward. Consultants are working to ensure the accuracy and feasibility of all cost estimates.
Evolution of the Plan
When the club first announced its intention to rebuild in June 2023, the board of directors had already voted to demolish and replace the clubhouse. The initial plan also involved raising monthly membership fees to help cover costs. At that time, a new Mediterranean-style building was envisioned, with construction potentially starting around 2028 and lasting two years.
Since then, club leadership has adopted a broader evaluation approach. The five-year timeline remains consistent with the original vision, meaning a potential groundbreaking could still occur around 2028 or 2029. However, no final decision has been made.
Private Land, Public Impact
Unlike many properties along St. Petersburg’s downtown waterfront, the Yacht Club’s land is privately owned. This ownership is a significant factor in the redevelopment process. It means that any redevelopment would not require a public referendum, which is typically necessary for construction on city-owned waterfront property.
"We have a perpetual deed to the land that allows us to exist there as long as we operate as a yacht club," Bergstrom noted.
The St. Petersburg Yacht Club has a long history of adapting to change. It has survived hurricanes, economic downturns, and decades of urban transformation in downtown St. Pete. More than a century later, the club faces a similar challenge: how to honor its past while preparing for the future.
The final decision on whether to renovate or rebuild rests with the board. However, member input will play a crucial role in shaping the future. The goal is to ensure the chosen path represents the best interests of its members and preserves the club's legacy for the next century.