At the confluence of the Illinois and Fox Rivers and just minutes from Starved Rock State Park, Ottawa, Illinois, offers a unique mix of small-town charm, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation. On the eastern edge of the town, the marina village of Heritage Harbor builds on this backdrop with vacation homes designed to connect residents to the riverfront, recreation, and each other. While activity-specific amenities abound throughout the village, the proposed clubhouse by the yuacollab team offers an effortless setting for both part-time and full-time residents to come together for recreational sports, leisure, and gatherings.

Designed to complement the village’s walkable layout, the clubhouse amenities are divided by a village road. Connected by a crosswalk, each side welcomes visitors through its own entry pavilion. On one side, a spacious amenity hall creates a hub for outdoor events and casual gatherings, with expansive views of the harbor from its exterior deck. Inside the hall, a shared social lounge and multipurpose recreation room offer flexible space for community use while administrative offices provide a functional work setting.

On the other side of the road lies the clubhouse, surrounded by tennis and badminton courts and an outdoor pool designed for both exercise and relaxed summer lounging. The one-story clubhouse includes small upper decks on either end, offering space to step outside for conversation and neighborhood views. Inside, a fitness room, dog care area, administrative offices, and a combined business center and conference room are filled with natural light from ample windows, with large folding doors on both sides that open to the pool and courts.

Resort communities like Heritage Harbor attract residents looking to connect with small-town life, nature, and recreation, even if it’s only for part of the year. The proposed clubhouse and amenities capture the easy rhythm of marina village living, offering something for every pace of life, from active sport to relaxing retreat. Every element of the clubhouse design aims to foster a sense of accessible community that complements the unique environment of Heritage Harbor.