golf
complexes

A golf course is above all an exceptional space, a harmony between landscape and performance. Each course bears its own architectural signature .

The objective: to combine aesthetics, playing pleasure and respect for the environment.

The design must integrate the natural relief, the local vegetation and the climatic conditions.

Depending on the type of project:

1. Championship course : high sporting requirements, international standards.
2. Golf resort : neat aesthetics and comfort for visitors
3. Residential golf : integration into a sustainable real estate program.
4. The design aims at playability, ease of maintenance and the durability of the site

Each phase aims to create a sustainable course, playable all year round and adapted to the level of prestige sought. The main stages of a golf project:

1. Preliminary studies : analysis of the site and design of the master plan by a golf course architect
2. Modelling of the land : earthworks and shaping of fairways, greens, bunkers and water bodies according to the approved design
3. Installation of technical networks : drainage, automated irrigation, water supply, roads and roads
4. Substrate placement and sowing: selection of the right turf (Bermuda, Paspalum, Zoysia, etc.) according to the climate and planned maintenance.
5. Landscaping finishes : planting, stabilization of embankments, environmental integration and ancillary facilities (clubhouse, driving range, maintenance)

The cost of building a golf course depends on many parameters: the surface area of the site, the complexity of the design, the number of holes (9, 18 or 27), the quality of the finishes, as well as the technical equipment (drainage, irrigation, clubhouse, roads, driving range, maintenance).

1. For a basic 9-hole course, typical budget: a budget ranging from 1.5 million to 3 million USD
2. For a "standard" 18-hole course, typical budget: a budget ranging from 5 million to 10 million USD, but often more depending on configuration/terrain

For a high-end/competitive 18-hole course, with luxurious infrastructure, heavy earthworks, sophisticated irrigation: up to $30 million USD or more

The choice of grass for a golf course depends on the climate, the use and the level of performance expected. Resistant and fine grasses are mainly used.

• Paspalum vaginatum (ex. Pure Dynasty) : idéal pour les climats tropicaux et côtiers, tolère le sel et l’irrigation à l’eau recyclée.
• Bermudagrass (Tifway 419, TifTuf, Tahoma 31): warm heat-resistant turf, widely used on fairways and tees.
• Zoysia japonica : dense and slow growth, excellent tolerance to drought and wear, perfect for high-end courses.
• Bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera): preferred for greens in temperate or cool climates, for a very fine and rolling finish.
• Ryegrass or Fescue : Often used in overseeding to enhance color and density during cooler seasons.

The main reference frameworks:

1. USGA (United States Golf Association) standards : they define the technical standards of the greens (drainage, substrates, grain size, layer thickness) and serve as a world reference.
2. Environmental regulations : water management, protection of wetlands, reduction of chemical inputs and preservation of local biodiversity.
3. Urban and administrative compliance : development permits, environmental impact studies, compliance with land use plans.
4. Accessibility and safety : traffic lanes, signage, maintenance of technical areas and safety of players and staff.

Maintaining a golf course is about maintaining the quality of play, the health of the turf and the aesthetics of the site throughout the year. This involves regular operations

1. Mowing and growth regulation : frequency and height adjusted according to the areas (greens, fairways, roughs) to maintain optimal playability.
2. Controlled irrigation : intelligent water management via automatic irrigation, humidity sensors and sub-irrigation.
3. Aeration and decompaction : regular operations to oxygenate the soil, promote rooting and improve drainage.
4. Rational fertilization and targeted treatments : maintaining the density and health of the lawn while limiting the use of inputs.
5. Bunker and curb management : leveling, sanding and erosion control for a consistent presentation

Yes, watering a golf course is a must to maintain the quality of the turf, playability and durability of the course – here is a list of best practices for obtaining quality turf:

1. Use of automated irrigation systems controlled by humidity sensors and weather stations

1. Installation of sub-irrigation networks allowing deep and uniform hydration.
2. Choice of drought-resistant lawns (Paspalum, Bermuda, Zoysia) to reduce the frequency of watering.
3. Recovery and recycling of treated rainwater or wastewater, in a circular economy logic.