Golf Course Architecture - Issue 62: October 2020

TEE BOX Chris Lutzke has collaborated with Kohler Co. executive chairman Herb Kohler to design a new 10-hole par- three course at Blackwolf Run in Kohler, Wisconsin. The 10-hole layout – The Baths of Blackwolf Run – is located on a 27-acre parcel of land between the first and eleventh holes of the club’s Meadow Valleys course, with holes ranging from 60 to 160 yards. There will be four water features, or ‘Baths’, but no forced carries. The short layout will also be joined by a two-acre putting course. “Initially there were a couple of different sites for the putting course,” said Lutzke. “But we decided to tie everything together – both the short and putting courses and a pavilion – so that people could gather around at the pavilion and watch others play.” Lutzke worked closely with IVI- Golf from an early stage of the project, with its PermaEdge Bunker System selected for installation on the short course. “An important consideration was adaptability of the synthetic wall structure and installation techniques to conform to the desired design goals,” said Chuck Hutton of IVI-Golf. “PermaEdge has proven to be capable of delivering the goals Chris was looking for. In addition, the long-term integrity of the PermaEdge method will provide aesthetics and maintenance efficiencies for years to come.” IVI-Golf was able to meet the precise delivery schedules required for the project. “Our technical team were also made available to be on site during project start-up, providing critical training and guidance for the PermaEdge installation, ensuring a quality build and labour efficiencies,” said Hutton. “This support proved to be essential to achieve the end results they desired.” The Baths of Blackwolf Run is scheduled to open in June 2021. Photo: Abe Wilson Photo: IVI Golf Blackwolf Run completes ‘Baths’ course 38