Herb Kohler, Chairman and CEO of Kohler Co., has announced that the company, through its subsidiary, The Old Course Limited, has purchased Hamilton Hall of St Andrews, Scotland, one of the most photographed buildings in the world of golf.
Kohler Co. has been judged the winner of a competitive bidding process for the property conducted by Jones Lang La Salle and the Bank of Scotland. His successful bid is believed to have been around £11 million.
The Old Course Limited now owns and operates the 5 AA Red Star Old Course Hotel, the Kohler Waters Spa and The Duke’s golf course, “all of which will play a role in the future of Hamilton Hall.”
Hamilton Hall, which opened as a hotel in its own right in 1895, remains a stately 4-story building of 45,000 square feet that overlooks the 18th green and fairway of the Old Course, the world’s most famous golf course, looks down The West Sands beach and out to the North Sea and sits adjacent to the 255 year old Royal & Ancient Golf Club.
Unfortunately, its interior is little more than rubble. Nevertheless, when Hamilton Hall became available for purchase, Herb Kohler felt that it was restorable and a good fit with the Kohler resort properties. “We are honoured,” he said, “to own such an iconic building in the home of golf.”
“We are excited about the development opportunities for Hamilton Hall, and appreciate both the support and enthusiasm the local community has for the property,” added Kohler. “We look forward to gathering input from the townspeople and the Fife Council as to what the name of the building should be along with its future use.”
Kohler Co. intends to conduct a “public consultation process” over the next few months toward creating a unique and economically viable product that will enhance St Andrews offering as the world’s premier golf destination.
Herb Kohler suggested, “Individuals who may one day occupy Hamilton Hall would be afforded a number of hospitality amenities including public and private dining at the Old Course Hotel, concierge and valet service, Kohler Waters Spa membership and Duke’s Golf Club membership, as well as a week at our very special private club called Riverbend in Kohler, Wisconsin U.S.A.
“Our priority is to complete the preservation of Hamilton Hall and return it to a viable and prominent position in St Andrews for generations to come,” Kohler continued. “Our company has long demonstrated the passion and ability it takes to restore historic buildings back to great distinction.”
Founded in 1873, Kohler Co. is one of America’s oldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a global leader in kitchen and bath products, engines and power systems, furniture and decorative tile, hospitality and real estate.
Kohler Co. www.kohler.com