Philosophy - Renovating & Remodelling existing courses

Since the days of Tom Morris, golf courses have had to adapt to change. Never more so than in today's ever-changing technologically innovative climate. Modern equipment and vastly improved specifications have altered the nature of golf, making many old courses less challenging. Original bunkers have become redundant, greens no longer drain properly, tees are inadequate and many courses cannot withstand the all year round play that members have now come to expect. We believe that a number of complex issues need to be addressed by any club looking to update and modernise their course;

Some of these are:

• The historical context of the course.
• The impact of a modern versus traditional architectural approach upon the course - whichever is more suitable.
• The balance of styles.
• The specification and sizing of greens and tees.
• The positioning and design of existing features including bunkers.
• The future maintenance of the course.

Many older golf clubs are seeking to upgrade and modernise their courses. At the same time, most members enjoy and appreciate the old fashioned styles and features that are the hallmark of their course. It is often the merging of the old style of design with the characteristics of the modern game that ensures a sympathetic renovation and will see the golf course successfully through to its next evolution.

Copyright © 2005 Simon Gidman IGCA All Rights Reserved.