Golf course resorts and residences don't have a famous history around
the world. Often over-scaled, crass and inappropriate for their natural
(albeit contrived) locales, they more often than not detract from the
contemplative qualities of 18 holes of golf.
Moonah Links Lodges, designed by Hayball, address the imbalance with a
sensitive, beautifully resolved development in the ancient rolling hills
of Melbourne's Mornington Peninsula. The three lodge-style buildings,
each with 12 hotel suites, and conference facilities nuzzle into the
landscape and the predominantly timber exterior makes for a sensitive
response in this beautiful coastal setting.
The interiors are luxurious and introspective, the perfect place to
retreat after a taxing round on the Peter Thompson-designed Championship
golf course. OK, it all sounds a bit like the brochure for the resort,
but these really are beautiful places to stay and play. They've been
very popular with conference attendees and were also the Overall - All
Categories winner at the 2007 Australian Timber Design Awards.