How to Design an Artificial Turf Multi-Purpose Putting Area That Doubles as a Landscape Feature

Artificial turf lets commercial operators turn unused spaces into attractive features that can also generate revenue. With the right design, a multi-purpose putting area becomes both a practice spot and a landscape asset that adds value. Unlike single-use amenities, turf systems support casual play, events, and daily guest enjoyment, all while keeping maintenance costs down.

For owners and managers, designing a putting area means more than just laying down turf. You need to check if the project is feasible, understand insurance needs, and choose materials that will last.

This in-depth guide covers every stage of retrofit planning, from assessing existing surfaces through to aftercare contracts. By following these steps, you can create a venue asset that appeals to tenants, guests, and revenue managers alike.

Clarify Objectives Before You Start

Start every putting area design with a clear goal. Are you looking to improve guest amenities, offer private event rentals, or boost the property’s value for leasing? Your answer will guide choices about the surface, aftercare, and extras like fencing and lighting.

• Guest amenity focus: Aim for a natural look and reliable play quality. Seating, shade, and safety features should be prioritised to enhance comfort.
• Hire and event revenue: Invest in stronger containment fencing and integrated storage to allow easy conversion between event bookings and general venue use.
• Asset value growth: Balance play quality with design aesthetics, ensuring the turf installation fits the overall landscape plan of the property.

Setting clear goals from the start helps you avoid costly changes or project delays later on.

Conduct a Site Feasibility and Structural Check

Before any installation, it is essential to evaluate the structural readiness of the area. Rooftops, courtyards, and podium slabs all present unique load and access challenges. GameOn Turf provides support in these early assessments, helping managers identify hidden risks before construction begins.

Key factors to assess include:

• Load capacity: Confirm that the structure can handle turf layers, infill, and guest activity.
• Access routes: Check lift sizes, stairwells, and service entries for turf roll and base material delivery.
• Existing finishes: Identify waterproofing membranes, coatings, or fragile substrates that may need protection.
• Drainage readiness: Review how water currently flows across the surface to avoid pooling after retrofit.

Working with an experienced installer helps you avoid structural problems and makes sure your project meets safety and engineering standards.

Check Permitting, Insurance, and Lease Obligations

It’s important to make sure your project follows all rules. Check if you need local permits, changes to insurance, or if the retrofit affects tenant leases.

• Local permits: Councils may require consent for alterations affecting stormwater, access, or fire safety.
• Insurance updates: Check that liability cover includes use of a backyard putting green or commercial play space.
• Lease obligations: Ensure tenants agree to amenity changes and understand responsibilities for upkeep or incident response.

Talking to insurers and council staff early can help you avoid delays and unexpected costs later.

Assess Drainage and Subbase Needs

The performance of an artificial turf putting green depends heavily on its drainage system. Retrofitting onto an existing slab, podium, or rooftop requires careful design to prevent ponding and extend surface life.

• Permeable subbase: A gravel or crushed rock layer allows water to flow away from the turf surface.
• Overlay systems: For rooftops or waterproof slabs, engineered drainage mats may be required.
• Fall and gradient: Even slight adjustments ensure water flows correctly, protecting both turf and structure.

Specialists can help make sure your design handles local rainfall and avoids long-term problems like moss or mould.

Plan Staged Works to Minimise Disruption

Plan your retrofit in stages to keep tenants and guests happy. Long closures can hurt your revenue and impact lease agreements.

• Schedule during low occupancy: Select periods with fewer bookings or seasonal downturns.
• Short work windows: Break down tasks into 48-hour or weekend slots where possible.
• Protective access plans: Use protective mats in service corridors to avoid damaging interiors during material delivery.
• Clear communication: Provide tenants and staff with a timeline to manage expectations.

GameOn Turf project managers plan each stage to work quickly and keep disruption to a minimum, so tenants have as little downtime as possible.

Artificial Turf That Balances Durability and Playability

The choice of turf dictates both the play experience and the long-term reliability of the installation. Commercial venues need systems that withstand frequent use, maintain ball roll, and resist wear.

Factors to specify include:

• Pile type and density: Higher pile resists flattening under heavy traffic, while denser stitching supports consistent ball roll.
• Tuft bind: Stronger binding prevents fibre loss and extends lifespan.
• Infill selection: Silica sand or specialised performance infills control speed, traction, and cooling.
• Warranty coverage: Commercial warranties guarantee surface resilience for frequent play.

By balancing these elements, venues can provide realistic play while meeting expectations for low-maintenance turf in NZ.

Design Containment Fencing and Safety Measures

Safety and liability are key concerns for commercial installations. A well-designed fencing system prevents golf balls from leaving the area and reduces risks for neighbours and passersby.

• Containment fencing: Height and material choice depend on venue use, with netting or framed panels common in urban settings.
• Soft edging: Padding or rounded finishes reduce the risk of impact injuries.
• Access control: Gates or lockable points protect the area during unsupervised hours.

GameOn Turf supplies turf fencing solutions designed for commercial venues, combining strength with minimal visual disruption.

Integrate Seating, Service Points, and Storage

A retrofit is not complete without considering how the space will operate during events or casual use. Seating, service areas, and storage convert a simple putting area into a flexible, revenue-ready venue.

• Fixed seating: Benches or built-in seating encourage casual use and guest comfort.
• Event service points: Access to catering or bar equipment allows easy transition for private hire.
• Storage: Secure kit storage keeps putters, balls, and maintenance gear safe and accessible.

Integrating these features from the start avoids future retrofits and helps staff manage quick venue changeovers.

Define Maintenance and Aftercare Plans

Artificial turf requires less care than natural grass but still benefits from routine maintenance. A service level agreement (SLA) with a supplier provides structure for ongoing care.

• Cleaning and brushing: Keeps fibres upright and removes debris.
• Moss and mould treatment turf: Regular applications prevent surface deterioration in damp conditions.
• Chemical supply: Secure access to approved cleaning agents avoids product mismatch and surface damage.

GameOn Turf offers aftercare packages designed to make your turf last longer and keep play quality high all year round.

Set Incident Response Procedures and Liability Documentation

Managing liability is essential for commercial operators. A structured incident response plan helps staff handle accidents quickly and protects against insurance disputes.

Include:

• Hire agreements: Signed documents confirming user responsibilities.
• Incident forms: Templates for recording accidents and securing witness statements.
• Clear signage: Safety rules displayed in visible locations.

These measures reduce operational risk and ensure smooth handling of insurance claims.

Plan Handover Training and Ongoing Support

The final step of any retrofit is the handover process. Without proper training, staff may overlook routine checks that keep the area safe and playable.

• Daily inspection routines: Staff learn to identify wear, debris, or surface issues.
• Quick fix procedures: Training covers small repairs and surface brushing.
• Single supplier contact: GameOn Turf provides a direct line for rapid supply of parts and approved chemicals.

This ensures continuity and reduces downtime in case of issues.

How GameOn Turf Supports Commercial Retrofits End to End

At GameOn Turf, we deliver complete artificial turf putting green systems for commercial venues. We handle everything, from early checks and assessments to final handover and ongoing care.

We provide turf, fencing, lighting, and seating that fit right into your space. Our aftercare covers moss and mould treatments, regular maintenance, and direct chemical supply, so property managers can trust their investment stays in top shape.

With over 100 years of combined experience, registered Master Landscapers on our team, and access to proven turf brands, we offer a complete solution tailored to the needs of commercial operators.

Keep It Rolling: Why a Smart Turf Design Pays Off

Installing a multi-purpose putting area takes careful planning, but the rewards go far beyond the surface. A good design improves guest experience, brings in steady hire revenue, and boosts long-term value. By setting clear goals, managing drainage and safety, and arranging aftercare, property managers can create a feature that pays off year after year.

At GameOn Turf, we’re here to help you every step of the way, from the first checks to ongoing care. With our experience, you can choose a surface that’s durable, easy to maintain, and appealing to tenants and guests.

Artificial turf remains the material of choice for these projects, offering durability, consistent performance, and a professional finish that integrates seamlessly into commercial spaces.

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