The Driving Range, part of Wembley’s Centre of Excellence for Golf, is Australia’s first fully automated two-storey golf driving range and proved an exciting project for both Oldfield Knott Architects and our clients, the Town of Cambridge.

An unusual building type, the Driving Range design is the result of detailed research and features Australia’s first fully automated system for golf ball delivery via underfloor ducts, fully automated, adjustable tees and ball washing, drying and distribution.

The building provides a state-of-the-art teaching facility, with westerly views to the Driving Range and the carefully designed practice greens and chipping practice areas beyond. Immediately above, on the first floor, is the Function Centre and alfresco area with spectacular views of the Golf Course, Perth CBD and the hills. Additional ground floor space is available to associated golf professionals.

The project further includes a major refurbishment/rebuilding of the Pro-Shop and Central Piazza area, a large secure store (and re-charge facility) for overnight golf-cart storage and back-of-house maintenance and storage areas. 

In all aspects of the design, sustainability has been a priority. The sustainability practices employed include:

• Rainwater harvested for use in buildings and adjacent landscaping;
• All hot water sourced from solar hot-water heaters;
• Solar power used for access road lighting;
• All water used, including for golf ball washing and cart washing, re-cycled in the on-site treatment facility; and
• 100% natural ventilation from the prevailing breezes.