Course Designs
ARNOLD PALMER SIGNATURE
An Arnold Palmer Signature golf course results from APDC performing the three phases of design service mentioned above and includes Mr. Palmer’s involvement in promotion of the golf course. His site visit and his name and likeness can be used in marketing. Read More
ARNOLD PALMER PREMIER
Palmer Premier is our highest level of involvement. It is a collaborative effort between the owner/developer and APDC to create a unique project that will be nationally and internationally recognized as one of a kind and a “must experience” place. Read More
Design Services
We are pure and simple golf course architects. We design our courses practically and efficiently using the academic-taught design process. We design our golf courses in three phases: Phase 1 – Master planning; Phase 2 – Construction documents and instructions; Phase 3 – Construction supervision
Working as part of a well-selected team is imperative for the success of projects. This is one of our strongest assets. We are team players.
We use practical methods to get creative ideas built.
Phase 1
Master planning
The first step is program development with the owner and the design team.
Next is the site review with topographical information. Program refinement is ongoing.
Preliminary planning begins with the team. Analysis and synthesis of the plan may take several generations of drawings. Field verification is necessary and the owner’s decision making is essential to plan progress. Land planners are key team players. This phase shows the owner all site components in plan view and defines the safety corridor of the golf course.
The final plan results from the owner’s and the design team’s sign-off after final site inspection of golf course centerlines.
Phase 2
Construction documents and instructions
This is the creation of legal documents by which a contractor will build the golf course. Routing plans, construction drawings, specifications and instructions are part of the plan package. This phase of work includes close coordination with the owner and civil engineer to insure the golf course functions properly in terms of its mechanics. Playability and beauty are represented in the plans and determined primarily by APDC. Cost estimates are part of this phase.
Phase 3
Construction supervision
A pre-construction meeting with the owner and contractor determines the schedule, budget, and methods. Introductions are made to the owner’s representative, project architect and construction superintendent.
Site visits by APDC usually include two people. Visits are made to inspect each line item of work. See the construction bid sheet. Field notes are kept and checked off as completed. Approval of each line item is necessary before the contractor can progress to the next item. Important review times are during rough shaping, feature location and feature construction. As many as 20 visits may be necessary. Changes in work that affect the builder’s contract will not be done until an estimate for the work is given and the owner approves. Construction supervision is complete upon grassing of the golf course.
