57 in go olf designers not dissimilar to musical artists; the artist should always be credited to the album/golf course they create. This recognition plays a big part in how they get their next project. JD: It used to be much more important than it is now. Most people get into this business with the romantic notion they will build a body of work that bears their name in perpetuity. I’m no different, but the reality of golf course architecture is that no one person is ever solely responsible for the design, construction, and evolution of a golf course. However, it is human nature to want to be recognised or acknowledged for doing a great job, whether they are the architect of record or not. I like receiving a pat on the back for doing great work that provides my clients with a return on their investment while providing healthy, active, and engaging experiences for the golfers. But also, something that serves a more significant benefit to the surrounding environment and community. The real legacy is not the architect of record. It is the work, and it is for the people who experience the work after we’re gone. We benefit from the fact that the works of MacKenzie, Ross, Dye, Tillinghast, Colt, Simpson, or whoever lives on, but they aren’t here to bask in their fame. Indeed, they don’t care! Nothing in this world is permanent, and inevitably, golf courses need to evolve and change over time to serve a useful purpose. While long-lasting for some, the legacy of a name is still just temporary, it eventually fades. That is something we can’t control after we’re gone. Credit and recognition are excellent, but it is not why I have dedicated my life to this work. AM: The original designer deserves the credit. I am still waiting on my first solo design, but am proud to be involved with so many newbuilds and restorations. I would never want to take away from the designer’s original idea for the sake of putting my name on it. TK: I’d hope this isn’t as much of an issue as it probably used to be, and I know here at EGD we are keen to make sure those responsible get the praise they deserve. I’m not one to seek the limelight so having my name on record is probably most important to build a résumé to seek future projects. It’s not a good look for the industry when deserving people are struggling to prove to potential future clients what they were and weren’t responsible for, so I hope that isn’t something I ever have to deal with. AH: Not at all to be honest. Along with seeing a design come to life, working closely with the individuals involved with each particular project is the most rewarding part of the job. I’m not too concerned if the wider world knows if I was involved in a project design wise, I’d almost rather golfers are able to enjoy the work of Lobb + Partners without knowing we were there. RC: In architecture, the success of a project is linked to the presence of multidisciplinary teams. Being a signatory on a project is just a representation and a tribute to all those who work with me. I firmly believe that my future as a golf architect is based on the evolution and success of the teams around me. GCA “ The golf course industry is very friendly and reaching out to ask a question can often reap rewards” Photo: ASGCA Photo: Forrest Richardson
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