By Richard Humphreys |
The Fall 2026 issue of By Design magazine from the American Society of Golf Course Architects, and produced by the team behind Golf Course Architecture, is now available in digital format.
The cover story from the latest release explores the attributes of a great opening hole. Architects Tom Marzolf, John Steidel, P.B. Dye, John Harvey, Chris Cochran, Stephen Kay, Mike Dasher and Jeff Lawrence discuss the elements that are at the forefront of their minds when designing an opening hole.
“A great opening hole begins with a visually dramatic composition that immediately sets the tone for the golf adventure ahead,” says Jeff Lawrence.
Also in the issue, By Design interviews Jim Nantz, who is the 2026 recipient of the ASGCA Donald Ross Award. Nantz speaks about his home course, favourite layouts, forays into design and why the First Tee means so much to him.
“Golf course architecture has so much to do with the way people consume their golf coverage,” says Nantz. “I am keenly aware of the people who shape the earth of the courses we broadcast tournaments at. I hope my appreciation for their work and craft comes out on those broadcasts.”
There’s much more too, including a report on the project completed by Tyler Rae on the North course at Detroit Golf Club, before it hosted this year’s Rocket Classic on the PGA Tour; insight from Niall Richardson, superintendent at Bernardus Golf, which is preparing to host the 2026 Solheim Cup; and a page from Tom Marzolf’s sketchbook for Naples Beach Club in Florida.
Sign up for your free digital subscription to By Design magazine via the ASGCA website.