by Kym Byrnes, photography by Nikola Tzenov
For decades, the clubhouse overlooking Wakefield Valley served as the social heart of a private golf course—a place for post-round gatherings, weddings, and special events.
When the course closed years ago and the City of Westminster acquired the property, the landscape evolved into what is now Wakefield Valley Park, a beloved public green space. The clubhouse, though, stood ready for its next chapter.
Today, that chapter is officially underway. Following a comprehensive renovation, the former golf clubhouse has reopened as a modern, flexible event center, one designed to meet the needs of today’s residents while honoring the building’s original purpose as a place where people come together.
A Decision Rooted in Community Need
According to Westminster Mayor Dr. Mona Becker, the decision to renovate rather than replace the building was shaped by community input, long-range planning, and practicality. Residents consistently expressed interest in a year-round indoor venue that could host a wide range of gatherings, while feasibility studies showed that renovating the existing structure was more cost-effective than new construction.
Just as importantly, the building already had the right foundation. “This clubhouse was built to host people,” Becker says. “Renovating it allowed us to preserve that spirit while creating something that truly serves the entire community.”
Inside a Flexible, Full-Service Event Center
The renovated facility now offers four distinct rental spaces, allowing renters to reserve a single room or combine spaces for larger events.At the heart of the building is the main event room—the space most people envision when they hear “clubhouse.”
With capacity for up to 350 people, it is ideal for weddings, large receptions, banquets, and fundraisers. The space includes a catering kitchen and bar area, making it well-suited for full-scale events.
Downstairs, two additional rooms provide more intimate options. One accommodates up to 110 people, while the second holds 72, making them perfect for meetings, conferences, workshops, or breakout sessions that complement larger gatherings upstairs, Becker says.
A major new addition to the facility is an open-air pavilion, built onto the end of the building. Becker adds that, with capacity for 200 people, the pavilion offers an outdoor option for summer weddings, celebrations, and community events. Renters can reserve the pavilion on its own, and a flat, grassy lawn just beyond the space provides flexibility for tents, games, or additional seating.
To make event planning easier, Becker says the venue comes with tables, chairs, and other essential furnishings, with plans to explore further amenities in the future, including audio-visual equipment.
Accessibility and Design
Beyond aesthetics and flexibility, Becker says the renovation prioritized function and inclusivity. The project includes full interior upgrades, ADA-compliant entrances and restrooms, and major infrastructure improvements to HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. Exterior landscaping and parking enhancements tie the Event Center seamlessly into the surrounding park.
A Community Asset with Impact
Managed by the City of Westminster Recreation & Parks Department, the event center is open to the public through a reservation system, with rental fees supporting ongoing operations.
A dedicated staff member oversees scheduling and coordination, ensuring events run smoothly and the space remains accessible to a wide range of users.
City leaders see the renovated clubhouse as more than an event venue.
Becker says it is a strategic investment that enhances Wakefield Valley Park, supports local tourism, and provides Westminster with a much-needed indoor gathering space that complements the park’s outdoor amenities.
From weddings and milestone celebrations to meetings and nonprofit fundraisers, the space is designed to host the occasions, big and small, that bring a community together.
Looking Ahead
Construction on the renovation is complete, and Becker says a grand opening celebration will be announced soon. The fairways may be gone, but the clubhouse’s original purpose remains intact—now reimagined for the entire Westminster community.
