Adventure Golf Services (AGS) installed a rooftop miniature golf course atop the new Smith Football Centre at the University of Illinois late last year and recently spoke with the general trades contractor and athletic department about the concept and execution of the project.
Tim Knox, Assistant Athletic Director, Football Operations at the University of Illinois, said: “We were trying to maximize our space. On most buildings this would be just wasted space. We felt there was potential to use that space to expand the footprint of the building without expanding the building.”
The custom designed 9-hole miniature rooftop golf course was conceived as a player’s lounge for relaxation. It consists of the miniature golf course, a partially covered steel trellis with furniture underneath it, along with heaters. There is also a 3-sided enclosed building that has airplane-like doors that open to the kitchen sporting a 60-inch grill.
While the $79.2 million complex was originally designed by Architect HTNB with world-class player amenities to impact recruiting and support a successful football program at the University of Illinois, the 9-hole miniature golf course was custom designed by Adventure Golf Services (AGS).
“We are seeing more interest and demand for miniature golf to be offered as an amenity from colleges and universities, not only from athletic departments, but also for upscale student housing,” says Scott Lundmark, President of Adventure Golf Services. “Our products are a perfect fit for fun activities to take a break from sports or studies, and can be designed to fit any space, theme and budget.”
The rooftop course at the Smith Football Centre includes several obstacles players must shoot through, into or around to enhance the fun and playability of the course.