Golf Course Architecture - Issue 61, July 2020

63 still photos from all different angles,” says Danner. “Then I’ll spend a few hours sketching and diagramming so the thoughts and ideas discussed on the video conference can be further developed, thought through, and elaborated on in the form of a field sketch that the contractor can implement the following day. The primary efficiency is that we work while they sleep, they work while we sleep, and both parties burn the candle a little bit at both ends to accommodate one another’s schedule. “To accompany the photographs, we are now requesting video walk-throughs with shaper commentary, and as-built spot elevations on a grid to review green surfaces. The green surface as-builts have always been a part of our process, but usually, as a site-visit tool to verify percentages and green strategy. “Having great shapers is another crucial component. Being able to have our regular shaper-architect discussions and banter over a video call has been invaluable, especially when working with people who know what you’re after. “The last few months have not been without it’s challenges. Sometimes spotty cell coverage, weather, lighting, barking dogs and a host of other variables can make it difficult to accurately process what we see on a screen. It also creates a lot more back and forth, which can be cumbersome at times, but it seems to get the job done. Danner, like most architects, is looking forward to a return to normality. “I’m definitely itching to go back out and play in the dirt.” GCA IN CONSTRUCT ION Lockdown perspectives GCA spoke with golf course architects during the onset of the coronavirus pandemic to get their insights into the progress of projects and the impact on golf. READ MORE Brian Curley, Schmidt-Curley Design “I believe that the aftermath of this crisis there will be a resurgence of golf and the desire to be in fresh, open air as people adjust to a very new world.” Tim Lobb, Lobb + Partners “We fully expect our golf course projects to move forward later this year as they are solidly funded and long-term visions.” David McLay Kidd, DMK Golf Design “Golf is one of the few sporting activities played outside with zero contact, so it offers an opportunity for people to exercise and compete safely.” William Swan, Swan Golf Designs “Golf projects – new or renovation – are long-term investments for golf clubs and investors so I imagine the projects will be deferred rather than cancelled.” Remote working for improved sustainability In an article on the GCA website, Martin Ebert and Tom MacKenzie discuss how the coronavirus outbreak has accelerated some of their plans to employ new technologies for more remote working, and therefore improve the sustainability of their projects. Read the full article at golfcoursearchitecture.net Read these and more interviews in full at golfcoursearchitecture.net