Hanse and Wagner pay tribute to Macdonald and Raynor for new design

Construction has started on a golf course designed by Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner for the new Kinsale Golf Club in north Naples, Florida.

The club has been founded by Detroit native and long-time southwest Florida businessman Anthony Soave, with plans for just 250 members. “Our vision is that Kinsale is a true golf club that will incorporate all the elements that provide our members with the experiences that make them smile and want to talk about,” he said.

Kinsale is being built on 174 acres of undeveloped land, with Hanse and Wagner having created a design that pays tribute to Golden Age architects Seth Raynor and Charles Blair Macdonald. The course will have the look and feel of a links and will feature ‘template’ designs, including Road, Biarritz, Short, Punchbowl, Redan, Double Plateau and Cape holes.

“Our vision is to build a fun and interesting golf course using Charles Blair Macdonald and Seth Raynor design philosophies as inspiration for our creativity,” said Hanse. “The holes are not to be interpreted as replicas rather as a foundation of our design’s thought process and a basis of the course character. We’re excited to work with the Soave team and being afforded the opportunity to create something unique for the Naples area.”

Kinsale facilities will also include short-game areas, driving range, putting green and a clubhouse. The club is expected to open in autumn 2024 and will operate from October to May each year.

“To provide the most meaningful experience for our members and guests, we are pleased that Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner have joined our project as the Kinsale Golf Club course designers,” said Soave. “Their vision and proven record over the last two decades are a key part of our plan.”

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