David McLay Kidd
#20 in our Top 20 Golf Architectures.
Born in the heart of Scotland in 1967, David McLay Kidd grew up steeped in the traditions of golf, a sport woven into the fabric of his homeland. With his father, Jimmy Kidd, serving as the course superintendent at the famed Gleneagles resort, David was exposed early on to the art and science of golf course design. This upbringing sparked a passion that would lead him to reshape the world of golf architecture.
Kidd's breakthrough came with his first solo project, Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Oregon, which opened in 1999. A daring endeavor for a young architect, the course quickly became a global sensation. Its rugged, links-style design celebrated the natural contours of the coastal landscape, earning praise from casual players and elite golfers alike. Prominent figures in the golf world have called Bandon Dunes "a masterpiece," with some declaring it a pilgrimage-worthy destination. Its timeless charm has cemented its status as one of the top-rated golf destinations globally and a model for modern links courses.
Over his career, Kidd's philosophy has evolved significantly. Initially known for crafting courses that tested the mettle of the most skilled players, he later shifted his focus to creating layouts that emphasized fun and playability. His goal became to offer challenges that excite seasoned golfers while welcoming those newer to the game.
This philosophy is evident in his portfolio of celebrated designs. From the Castle Course at St. Andrews, which adds a visually stunning modern touch to the historic home of golf, to Mammoth Dunes at Sand Valley in Wisconsin, which boasts wide fairways and strategic design, Kidd's creations strike a balance between tradition and innovation. Gamble Sands in Washington, a course celebrated for its forgiving layout and enjoyable play, is perhaps the finest example of his emphasis on making golf fun for everyone.
Beyond their aesthetic and strategic appeal, Kidd's courses have hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, underscoring their caliber. Bandon Dunes, for instance, has been the site of several notable championships, including the U.S. Amateur and the U.S. Women's Amateur Four-Ball, further establishing its reputation as a world-class venue.
David McLay Kidd's influence extends far beyond individual courses. With projects spanning the United States, Scotland, England, and beyond, his designs have brought a global audience closer to the soul of golf. Whether through his modern takes on links golf or his commitment to sustainable design, Kidd’s work reflects his Scottish heritage while embracing contemporary sensibilities.
Today, from his base in Bend, Oregon, Kidd continues to innovate through his firm, DMK Golf Design. His legacy lies not just in the physical landscapes he shapes but also in the experiences he creates for golfers around the world. With a career that bridges tradition and modernity, David McLay Kidd has left an indelible mark on the game, reminding us that golf, at its best, is both a challenge and a joy.
