26 INSIGHT Two key cogs in the creation of golf course projects are architects and constructors. Each inevitably has their own vision of how to achieve results, but respect for each other’s specialty is imperative. “Optimizing the whole is the guiding principle that brings out everyone’s best,” says Jake Riekstins, chief development officer of golf construction firm Landscapes Unlimited. “Listening and then responding from a place of expertise and experience provide maximum utility and value to the project and team. Maintain an even keel and there are definitely times to go along to get along. But don’t be a pushover if you feel strongly about a particular aspect of your work. It’s why we are in the room. It’s all in the delivery – recommend, don’t tell, and ask others what they think of your ideas.” ASGCA members relish cooperation and have guideposts of their own. “The architect’s primary job is to clearly articulate, via drawings, words and in-field directives, what constitutes the vision and expectations of the project,” says Paul Albanese, ASGCA. “Getting everyone on the same sheet of music from the outset mitigates frustration.” Albanese emphasizes the importance of all parties recognizing that mistakes occur during construction and the reasonable remedies for a joint fix. “We are all accountable to one another and, ultimately, golf course ownership.” ASGCA members note the importance of a specialist shaper, with freedom to be creative. Albanese says: “I often compare this relationship to a writer of a movie working with an actor. Some writers believe the actor must say every line in the script exactly as its written. Others allow deviation and ad lib to achieve the best result.” Proper planning is what Gene Bates, ASGCA, covets in relationships with trusted construction companies. The build cost must always be consistent and dependable. Construction schedules must always be on time and budgets are adhered to with change orders only upon unforeseen circumstances and universal buy-in. Yet there’s more: the intangibles and the spirit of the project. “Getting to know the construction team, professionally and personally, ahead of time gets the most out A good partnership between architect and constructor results in a positive outcome in the field. By Design speaks with representatives from both sides of the equation to find out more. A sum greater than its parts “ Getting everyone on the same sheet of music from the outset mitigates frustration”
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