You could be forgiven for thinking that books in Golf Architecture that hark back to the golden era of course design are a somewhat turgid read, with a lot of famous books dating back to the early years from the architects of the day (Simpson, Mackenzie et al). I picked this up on a recommendation from one of our friends @EnglandGolfProject and I’m so glad I did!

In this modern take on Golf architecture, Tom talks about the founding principles of course design when the game was first developed on the shores of the British Isles, a landscape that was of little use aside from recreational activities and farming sheep. The early pioneers simply created a series of holes (it didn’t matter how many), and players were invited to play their way however it suited their eye. Tom talks a lot about how the modern era presents a risk to these founding principles with the introduction of bulldozers and heavy equipment permitting the movement of earth on a grand scale, allowing architects to create a more artificial feel in resort locations, as well as how the expectations of marble-slick greens and perfectly manicured fairways make it increasingly difficult to provide the right product for golfers at a cost that is profitable and represents value. Reflecting back on the courses that were designed at the outset it is truly remarkable to think what was achieved with little more than good imagination, and an understanding of the concept of strategy and risk-reward.

Strategy and how it is incorporated into the design principles of courses was a real education for me in this book, looking at how different types of strategy can be used to invite the player to take on shots (perhaps more than he or she should) and how hazards, topography and visual aspects of the course all contribute towards the rich tapestry that we take for granted on some of the best courses around the world. Doak also links strategy into course design for players at all levels, in particular how designers create holes that are rewarding for players of all abilities by providing different options and the relative importance of greens and contours versus tee-box location and carries.

Doak has gone on to design some absolute masterpieces, and his work at places like Bandon Dunes and Streamsong are at the vanguard of course design in the modern world. Whilst it was written relatively early in his career, you can see how he has incorporated these thoughts into his work to build something very different for the modern game that is sympathetic to the natural landscape and doesn’t overuse artificial hazards like water to contain the longer hitters and find difficulty.

Beautifully put together book in Hardback, and complimented with lots of simple sketches and blueprints of famous holes, Doak is able to illustrate the points he makes. Written in 1992, 5 years before Tiger really came on the scene, he is already alluding to the issues with distance in the game and the challenges architects face in defending courses in the face of longer hitters.

For anyone interested in how golf has evolved, what makes the designer tick and the concepts that are consciously employed to make the game we love even more enjoyable it’s an absolute must read, and it also looks great on the coffee table!

5*