Bayview Yacht Club in Detroit, one of the most storied sailing clubs in the nation, is nearing completion of the renovation of its 86-year-old clubhouse. The project is scheduled to be completed in June.
The project required more than 85 percent of the original building to be demolished and rebuilt at a cost of more than $5 million.
In 2017, the clubhouse was in desperate need of restoration and a survey of the building was conducted. It was quickly realized that the repairs and upgrades needed were more extensive than initially envisioned. In 2018, the BYC Board of Governors approved the renovation and NSA (architect/engineer) and Frank Rewold & Sons (CM) were retained to oversee the project.
“When Bayview’s leadership undertook this project, we had a number of goals,” says Chuck Stormes, 2021 Bayview Yacht Club Commodore. “First and foremost, we wanted to create a facility that would showcase our rich sailing heritage and safeguard our legacy.
“Secondly, we aspired to design a state-of-the-art clubhouse that would embrace our location at the water’s edge and maximize views of the Detroit River. In late spring, we’ll complete the renovation and welcome members, families, and guests into our new home that will position BYC to grow into the next century.”
The usable space inside the newly completed clubhouse will increase by 2,700 square feet, bringing the total to 12,791 square feet. Additionally, the foundation and infrastructure will be completely replaced and updated. The new facility includes flexible dining/banquet spaces, a state-of-the-art kitchen, a second story deck for dining, completely updated A/V, and multi-use rooms.
The new grand entrance and main hallway features a trophy hall with vaulted ceilings that will safeguard and display trophies, plaques, and models that illustrate Bayview’s storied sailing history. Some of these treasures date back more than 100 years.
Founded in 1915, BYC moved to its current Detroit location at 100 Clairpointe St. in 1935. The clubhouse has undergone seven makeovers and additions, the last taking place in 1988. The new design takes advantage of the club’s riverfront location and the panoramic views of downtown Detroit, Belle Isle, and Canada.
“As with many renovation projects involving old and failing infrastructure, the deeper you get into it, the more you discover what needs to be reworked or completely redesigned and replaced,” says Bradford Kimmel, past commodore and renovation chairman of the BYC. “Our clubhouse was no exception. Upon completion, we will have a brand-new state-of-the-art facility built on a solid concrete foundation.”
Several elements from the old clubhouse will be incorporated into the new building, including the original mahogany bar, a sandstone fireplace, and numerous trophies, awards, and memorabilia.
“While we tried to incorporate many traditional elements into the new design, make no mistake, this is a modern, open, and multi-functional facility created for our members, guests, and families,” says Kimmel. “This building has been specifically designed as a first-class venue to promote daily camaraderie, the expansion of membership, and the sport of sailing.”
For more information regarding Bayview Yacht Club and membership opportunities visit here.
Bayview Yacht Club is regarded as the premier sailing club in Michigan and the Midwest. It has been hosting the Bayview Mackinac Race since 1925, and has more than 900 members.
