China Fleet Country Club
Set within 180 acres of stunning countryside on the border of Devon and Cornwall, China Fleet Country Club has seen significant investment in its facilities over the last few years. With more work to come, the total investment will reach well over £1 million as the Club puts customer satisfaction at the heart of the improvements.
The most recent work completed included an overhaul of the Health Club and Hotel Reception areas. First impressions are always crucial and the Club took the decision to create a relaxed and warm area to welcome guests.
With a range of facilities – including a golf course, health club, spa and self-catered apartments – China Fleet Country Club serves a wide demographic of visitors. For the reception area project, the Club turned to long-time associate Four Counties Interiors. Managing Director Karen Sheflin spoke to Premier Hospitality about the work:
“Over the years we’ve worked on a number of China Fleet Country Club projects. I know the client very well, know the budgets and know what they need. We have a very good working relationship.
“When the Club first approached me with regards to this project, I was given the plans, the budget and was asked whether it could be done for that price. It was put out to tender and we went with the one that came in under budget.
“Prior to the makeover the reception area was quite dated and while there was nothing actually wrong with it, it lacked a wow factor.”
Karen added:
“The new reception areas at China Fleet were designed to be, and are, a radical departure from the previous layouts of the areas. The space is almost unrecognisable and now presents as a modern, professional and welcoming first impression.
“There is a clear distinction between the hotel and conferencing reception, and the Health Club reception. This definition means that there is an easy flow and function between the two areas, and customers and guests alike have a new, exciting and good looking welcome to China Fleet.”
Devon-based Designs Unlimited also played a key role in the design of the revamped space. Owner Jo Willcocks said:
“For this project, Designs Unlimited was commissioned to draw up full detailed designs for the refurbishment of the two reception areas at China Fleet. This included all the drawings, schedules of finishes and a full design package for the works involved. We looked carefully at customer flow, space allocation as well as form and aesthetics. The resulting design provides attractive, welcoming and eminently usable spaces.
“We are always delighted to work with China Fleet. The company is a pleasure to work for, and it is great to be able to help them realise the forward thinking and exciting ideas that they have for the club.
“We have worked with China Fleet on several projects over the years, and we feel very lucky to be involved with such a great organisation.”
With over 25 years of experience, Designs Unlimited specialises in interior design and interior architecture. The company undertakes full project designs from concept to completion for refurbishments, new builds and restoration works.
Despite a challenging timeframe the work was completed on time and in budget. The fit out had to be carried out during a three week window while the Country Club continued to operate. It was therefore crucial guests remained as unaffected as possible.
As one of the leading Country Club’s in the South West, China Fleet offers a variety of open plan accommodation to suit any occasion. As standard all apartments and cottages come with flat screen televisions, Wi-Fi and toiletries in addition to free use of the Health Club facilities and free parking.
Relaxation comes in the shape of the Health Club and Spa. Boasting a gym, swimming pool, exercise classes and some of the best racquet sport facilities in the area, the Club caters to both those looking for a bit of fun exercise or a serious workout.
Shared by guests and members, the swimming pool includes a flume slide, water cannons, spray cannons, bubble features and play mats. In 2017, £50,000 will be spent on refurbishment of the pool.
Set in one of the most picturesque spots in the grounds, Barn Spa is a perfect spot to relax, refresh and boost well-being. The spa team use the best products to provide the latest techniques and treatments.
Future improvements at China Fleet Country Club will include a £750,000 investment to upgrade all 41 apartments. So far 15 apartments have been revamped with plans in place for all accommodation to be finished by 2018.
