Design Process
No matter what type of project, the beginning stages to a design always begin in the field. Site visits and pre-planning meetings are essential to a great design. It is the best way to get a feel for the project and gain ideas. Only after I gain a thorough understanding of the project do I return to the office to begin preparing schematic designs for the project.
I view plan creation as a basic fundamental of a strong project. Some architects prefer to prepare minimal, or no plans, and opt to "design in the field". Others prepare plans that are so detailed that they leave little room for changes in the field. While each method may create a satisfactory finished product, the former can come at the added expense of cost and time and the later can leave little room for creativity in the field without the addition of change orders.
My philosophy utilizes both approaches to complete my designs. The planning phase is used to help convey the ideas in a 2D setting. This allows for us to talk through the plans with the board, owner, or committee to find a plan that best fits the golf course. Finally, construction plans are put in place that allows for the development of accurate cost estimates and to obtain apples-to-apples bids for the completion of the work. My contractors understand that these plans are an important starting point, but not set in stone. This allows for the freedom to enhance the work in the field, usually without any added cost to the project.
In order to complete this planning, I use the most recent computer software. Using Adobe PhotoShop, I can accurately create computer images of work to be completed before the construction begins. Creating these photo-realistic images allows the client to ability to see what the work will look like. It provides courses with an added selling tool to explain the design changes.
Once designs are in place, construction documents are completed using AutoCAD software. This allows for accurate quantity take-offs by the contractors to prepare pricing. Plans are also transferred this way to the project engineer to prepare documents for permitting.
Finally, all my plans are released to the client in a format to allow them to get the information to their players and members. Along with social media, this allows for better communication for the upcoming work and a better understanding by the golfers regarding how and when the work is to be completed. This insures your golfers will see the benefits of a renovation project and ease the impact of construction on the golf course.
Member American Society of Golf Course Architects
MICHAEL J. BENKUSKY, INC - GOLF COURSE ARCHITECTURE
3813 Sonoma Circle
Lake in the Hills, IL 60156
815.474.8385