Tom's deep and profound philosophy is that each and every course he creates is unique and special and should demonstrate a style and character created and adapted to every project. This is no simple trick. It is the art of great architecture. This is how great courses are created. Nothing less.
Some architects of the current era simply duplicate the work of others past and present. The result is usually a course that disappoints or leaves a feeling that it has already been seen before. Tom does not do this. Tom looks to lead and discover. He was the first golf architect to use bedrock as a framing and aesthetic element in course design leading to a whole new architectural style in northern, rugged and otherwise difficult terrain.
Tom treats every project with a fresh approach, taking the time to listen to the land and listen to the client. Getting it right...
Tom develops a clear and distinct vision for every project he takes on. Maybe it is the way the course is routed... many of his courses are distinguished by non-returning nines, an important nuance in immersing the golfer into the course experience without disruption. Maybe it is the way the course is bunkered. Tom is careful with his bunkering, not over doing it when not needed or conversely using a strong bunker motif when aesthetic punctuation is required.
Tom takes environmental concerns and sensitivities seriously when working with the land. He finds ways to add value and promote natural uses of the environment.
Where it all begins is the quality of the land. Some sites are blessed, others not. The key is to identify the design elements needed to create a cohesive and dramatic design.
Play the land as it lies
The mission always is to create 18 beautiful, dramatic, playable holes.
