Construction has started on the Andrew Green-designed course at Kawonu Golf Club, a new invitation-only private club in Simpsonville, South Carolina.
The development is led by founding partners Scott Ferrell and Barton Tuck. Ferrell has worked for the PGA Tour, TPC and Gary Player Group, while Tuck, with his GolfSouth company, has helped to build and manage more than 60 golf courses in the southeast of America.
“Today is about more than a construction milestone – it’s a tangible beginning of a vision to create one of America’s truly great golf clubs,” said Ferrell at the groundbreaking ceremony attended by the 150 members and founders. “We’ve assembled an incredible team, selected an extraordinary piece of land, and embraced a philosophy that honors both tradition and simplicity. Every detail is thoughtfully designed to provide a world-class experience rooted in authenticity, camaraderie, and a profound love for the game.”
The site features rolling meadows, hardwood forests and lakefront vistas. “This property offers something truly special – a natural canvas with character, movement and soul,” said Green. “We are creating something timeless. A course that’s at once familiar yet entirely new. The goal is to create a layout that surprises, challenges and inspires players every time they step onto the first tee while remaining true to the land’s natural character and unique sense of place.”
Kawonu will have a clubhouse, overnight accommodation, a Founder’s Village located between the ninth and thirteenth holes, a Founder’s Fish House restaurant as well as indoor and outdoor spaces. Architect Joel Newman of Thomas and Denzinger, who has portfolio including Ohoopee Match Club, will design the clubhouse, lodging, training center and comfort stations.
“Kawonu is about more than the game,” said Ferrell. “We’re creating a place where golf serves as both an escape and a return to what matters most. Kawonu will be a retreat where the quality of the course shapes the experience, the beauty of the land, and the people who want to be part of something enduring.”
Kawonu is expected to open in spring 2027.