Walnut Hills in East Lansing has been known for decades as one of the most prestigious golf clubs in the state. But with the addition of more competition in the market, and the downturn in the economy, the once exclusively member-owned club has been forced to reinvent itself. This summer, nearly 90 years after opening, Walnut Hills’ new owners have put the finishing touches on a renovation they hope will regain the club’s place at the top.

The crowning jewel of the club’s new look is a unique 170-seat bar and restaurant. The facility, opening this summer, offers something for everyone. Co-owner Kip Miller explains the motto says it all: a place relaxed enough to bring the kids, hip enough to sip martinis with friends, and refined enough to bring those important business clients.

“We see the restaurant as bringing vibrancy and energy to Walnut Hills,” says Gina Lisenby, a spokesperson for the owners. “It’s an important component in making a great facility an even greater one.”

The new bar/restaurant is just the latest transition for Walnut Hills. The biggest distinction came when the club changed recently from a member-owned facility to a privately owned club—a move that not only opened Walnut Hills to the public but also changed the mood of the course.

Bill Mory, general manager, says that the club is now more contemporary. Mory adds that the new owners wanted to make the golf course more current to meet the lifestyles of today’s consumers. But, he says the transition was respectful of the past. “We’ve worked hard to make changes while still respecting the traditions of the founders.”

Today, the shift is from the privileged to the family on the go. “People today are busy with their kids, with organized activities,” says Mory.

Those without time for the traditional membership can now find a variety of options. Several different membership categories, ranging from individual to full family plans, are offered, giving access to the club when it’s wanted and for a more affordable price. “If only adults golf, then why pay a family rate for golf?”questions Mory.

The public can now select a plan that better suits them. “The ‘sports family’ is very popular. It offers weekday access for those whose weekends are full.” The cost of membership can be 40 percent below that of traditional prices. For those who don’t play golf, swimming and tennis are available with instructors on staff.

The biggest advantage of the transition to a privately held company, for owners and consumers alike, is the availability of banquet and other facilities to the general public.“We can now offer services to private citizens for weddings or graduations along with organizations looking to do fundraisers,” Mory says. Owners are also able to expand marketing the facility from members or member affiliations to everyone.

“The more business we get, the more services we can offer at a competitive price.”

Despite being heavily dependent on disposable income and discretionary spending, Walnut Hills has actually increased business over the last two seasons.“We’re providing a product that’s competitive in the market,” says Miller. “If people still aren’t taking as many vacations or traveling as much, they can take advantage of all that Walnut Hills has to offer.”

With continued growth, Miller says he won’t be surprised to be adding even more jobs.“We currently have about 120 full- and part-time staff but as the economy improves it’s likely we will need even more help.” For a complete listing of the memberships and services available, visit www.walnuthills.com.