Featured architects

Tom Fazio

The shaper of the modern American parkland course

Born
1945, Pennsylvania, USA
Years active
c. 1970s–present
Works
200+ worldwide
Era
Modern Era

Why the name endures

Trained under his uncle George Fazio, Tom built a reputation on earth-moving of extraordinary refinement, producing courses that look inevitable even where the ground was not. He has also become the most trusted hand for renovation work at historic American clubs.

Design principles

  • Playability first; the great course is enjoyable at every handicap
  • Sightlines and framing that make the shot obvious
  • Restoration that respects the original architect's intent

Surviving work

Courses to see

Shadow Creek

Nevada, USA

A wooded valley conjured out of flat desert with 21,000 transplanted trees.

Wade Hampton Club

North Carolina, USA

Mountain golf on a valley floor beneath Chimney Top.

Sand Ridge

Ohio, USA

Built through wetlands with a minimal footprint by his own standards.