A major refurbishment of the Inyoni Creek clubhouse has been completed following a two-month upgrade programme aimed at modernising the space and improving comfort for residents.
Work on the clubhouse began in early March and was wrapped up by mid-April – ahead of a scheduled 90th birthday celebration held on April 26. The refurbishment was made possible in part by surplus village funds available at the end of the financial year.
“It has been on our wish list for some time,” says village manager Jenny Tonkin. “Close to the end of our financial year, we were reflecting a surplus and decided to use the funds to refurbish the clubhouse. This way, all the residents benefit.”
Jenny says the main goal was to update a space that had begun to show its age. “The clubhouse was looking tired and needed modernising,” she says.
The refurbishment included a full interior repaint, new curtains and roll-up blinds, updated light fittings, new rugs, and a mix of restored and newly added seating. All chairs were reupholstered, while additional wingback chairs were introduced to replace some of the older couches.
“We replaced a lot of the couches with wingback chairs as we found they take up less space and are easier for our residents,” Jenny explains.
Deck rebuilt
Outside, the wooden deck overlooking the dam was completely stripped and rebuilt with new timber. New lighting was installed along the ramp and balustrade to improve visibility and safety. The original canvas drop-down screens were also replaced with modern transparent blinds, designed to offer protection from wind and sun without obstructing the view.
Following the upgrade, residents have noticed a brighter, lighter feel inside the clubhouse, as well as improved lighting throughout the space.
“It is definitely a sense of pride,” Jenny says. “The clubhouse is the heart of the village, and our residents take great pride in showcasing the clubhouse for all their events.”
The project was co-ordinated by a group of residents – Helen Parkinson, Shirley Moore, Fransie du Preez, Fred Morawitz and Sheryl Morawitz – working alongside the office team to manage contractors and maintenance staff from start to finish.
A celebratory lunch was held on May 20 to mark the completion of the refurbishment and allow residents to experience the upgraded space. About 60 residents and management guests attended, with catering provided by Good2Go.
Jenny says the reaction from residents has been overwhelmingly positive. “They are absolutely blown away.”
Looking ahead, early discussions are underway about adding a communal braai area near the clubhouse to support outdoor functions and family gatherings.
