A new “fun” practice green has recently been opened at the Golfpark Holzhäusern in central Switzerland. A co-design by Steiner & Partner and (re)GOLF, this green has been designed with ‘The Himalayas’ at St Andrews as its inspiration.
Unlike normal “flatish” practice greens which relate to the main golf course, this 1,150m2 putting green was designed for fun but can also be used for putting competitions. “Whether it’s for a seminar or just a few friends, this new green is an ideal place to socialise and compare putting abilities”, says Pit Kalin, Club Manager at Holzhäusern. The clubhouse restaurant provides an ideal vantage point for spectators as the course is located directly below. It has been designed to provide entertainment and perhaps some relaxed competition for people of all ages. “It’s not nearly as big as the Himalayas at St. Andrews but it’s big enough to design in some interesting slopes. It’s great fun!”, comments David Bily, co-design architect for the project. “This is our 3rd such putting course design and our client’s experiences to date have been very positive. The buzz that they create around and close to the clubhouse is infectious!” says Paul O’Brien of (re)GOLF.
For Erich Steiner, this putting green is another great option for enjoying some golf in a short window of time. “People don’t always have 4 or 5 hours to play a full round of golf. The Alps, which was designed into the masterplan renovation at Holzhäusern from the start, is at the heart of this theme. Short and sweet.”
In fact, The Alps is only one of many renovation projects at Holzhäusern which have been led by Steiner & Partner since 2008, and the work continues.
The new driving range and academy are under construction at this moment in addition to converting an existing 6-hole short course into a 9-hole par 3 course. These numerous renovation projects will provide Golfpark Holzhäusern with a fantastic variety of training possibilities, making this good course into a great course.
Golfpark Holzhäusern http://www.golfparks.ch/de/golfparks/golfpark/holzhaeusern
Steiner & Partner www.steinerpartner.com
(re)GOLF http://www.regolfdesign.com/