19 TEE BOX Fågelbro renovation addresses agronomy and strategy Fågelbro Golf & Country Club on Fågelbrolandet Island, 20 miles east of Stockholm, Sweden, has enjoyed its first season of play following a renovation by Johan Benestam. The project was carried out in two phases, with Nelson & Vecchio completing work between August 2023 and June 2025. “After more than three decades, our greens had reached a point where maintaining consistently high-quality playing surfaces was becoming increasingly difficult,” said course manager Martin Hall. “Low-lying areas had led to recurring ice damage, while the gradual increase of poa further compromised quality and delayed the opening of the course in spring. From a construction perspective, the greens were also well below modern USGA standards, leaving them vulnerable to Scandinavian winters.” The decision to renovate was about more than solving agronomic problems, with Benestam looking to add more strategy. “We saw an opportunity to rethink the playing experience itself – to create a course that would be more engaging, more strategic and more enjoyable for golfers of every level,” he said. “Safety was another important consideration, with the aim of creating a more secure environment, not only for golfers and staff, but also for residents and hotel guests.” All greens and surrounds were renovated, every bunker was rebuilt with CapillaryFlow, new tees were introduced and some existing tees were moved or enlarged. Some holes, landing areas and lakes were also reshaped and the club updated its Rain Bird irrigation system. “One of the most visible changes is the new character created around greens,” said Benestam. “The redesigned bunkers and carefully shaped undulations provide a more modern appearance while also introducing a greater element of strategy. Approaching the green is no longer simply a question of distance and execution; golfers are encouraged to consider angles, risk and reward, and their own strengths. The bunkers and green surrounds create a stronger sense of place while adding another layer of thought to the game.” Hall added: “The project represents an investment in the future. The aim was to establish stronger foundations, improve the resilience and quality of the playing surfaces, and create a layout that remains enjoyable, challenging and relevant for years to come. The result is a course with a renewed identity – one that respects its past while embracing a more dynamic future.” Photo: Fågelbro Golf & Country Club
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