Greg Norman Golf Course Design has quickly established itself as one of the most prominent design firms in the game, and has a growing portfolio of courses in all corners of the globe.
Like other big ‘signature’ firms, the biggest issue with a company like GNGCD is the quality of the design work done by the various associates. For years the company had two design offices and the Australian team, formerly headed by Bob Harrison, was responsible for creating a number of terrific golf courses. It was important for developers, therefore, to know which team was doing your work, and even more specifically which design associate was handling your assignment. This is true of all the signature firms.
In mid-2010 the Australian office of Greg Norman Golf Course Design was closed, with clients in the Asia Pacific region now serviced by Norman’s Florida team. Norman’s American office has been responsible for some good golf at places like The Medalist (originally co-designed by Pete Dye but personally reworked by Norman) and Doonbeg in Ireland, which occupies some of the most attractive dunes in golf.
The Australian office’s best were National Moonah in Victoria, Ellerston in New South Wales, The Grand in Queensland and Nirwana Bali in Indonesia. Other good efforts included The Vintage, Pelican Waters and the Norman Course at Mission Hills in China.
The suitability of the Greg Norman design brand for your project depends on many factors that should be fully discussed with the Global Golf Group. There are clear marketing advantages with the Norman name, but you need to be aware of both output and brand saturation issues that may arise.
For an independent appraisal of Greg Norman Golf Course Design’s portfolio, or for general design advice, please email darius@planetgolf.com.au or contact the Global Golf Group .
