Subtle Touches in the Fall

September signifies the beginning of late season renovation work in northern climates.  There’s always the challenge for Club’s with such plans to squeeze in those last few golf events before things get dug up and messy… time is precious with colder weather only weeks away.  The mad dash has begun! 

We’re busy this year with several bunker projects. One such effort finds me at Old Elm Club near Chicago.  We’re pushing to complete the second phase of bunker work there…(mainly fairway bunkers) having completed many of the greensides during the cold, wet spring.  It’s a delicate effort, with sensitivities to the two architects responsible for its original design, Messrs Harry Colt and Donald Ross.

As the history proves, Colt developed the plan, the notes, the strategic elements – the design is his.  With pressing responsibilities in the UK, Colt would depart the US in 1913 prior to the construction of Old Elm – but not before passing off his orders to Ross, who was appointed to carry out the ultimate implementation.  For the most part, Ross was dutiful in carrying out Colt’s orders (with perhaps his main influence and refinement resting with the green surfaces).  The original placement of the bunkers, however, is with direct relation to Colt’s original plans and notes (which we are fortunate enough to have in possession).

With previous renovations at Old Elm tending toward the Ross style, our efforts are centered on the authentic revitalization of Colt’s bunkering… restoring what inspired Colt’s vision (what was drawn and written) and establishing a more cohesive character among the bunkers.  This entails what Colt referred to specifically in his notes as “torn bunkers” whereby, “ a bank which should be torn out with forks and made to look ragged and rough.”

In some cases, non-original bunkers are being removed – some are being re-introduced (which were planned for but were never built) and others refined to fit today’s modern influences.  Overall, the effort will yield a set of hazards with a more distinct appearance with forms that fit seamlessly into the landscape.  We’re taking a subtle approach – one that befits and respects the works of Colt & Ross – and one that meets the objectives and enjoyment of the Club’s fine membership.

The snow can fly early in Chicago, so we’re prepared to push hard to finish.  What a great opportunity it is though to execute this sensitive work on a timeless classic like Old Elm.