The world of golf course architecture is one that is rich with relentless dedication, an innate understanding of the natural environment, and an unparalleled passion for the sport – traits that golf course designer Todd Eckenrode effortlessly exemplifies. Suffused with an inherent talent for harmonizing the complex dimensions of course design aesthetics, playability, strategy, and sustainability, he has expertly etched his name among the world’s best golf course designers.
Eckenrode is the founder and principal of Origins Golf Design, an acclaimed landscape architecture firm known for its innovative and eco-friendly designs. Raised in San Diego, California, his early exposure to golf was largely encouraged by his father, an eager golfer himself. Growing up, Eckenrode would often accompany his father to various golf clubs, where he would spend hours marveling at the intricately designed greens. Little did he know, these experiences would serve as the cornerstone to his golf course design career.
Eckenrode pursued a Landscape Architecture degree at Cal Poly Pomona, where he immersed himself in their well-regarded design program. Post-graduation, he embarked on his professional journey, refining his understanding of the design process at several leading golf design firms before setting out to establish Origins Golf Design in 2000.
Regarded as an auteur of golf course design, Eckenrode has consistently championed the integration of ecological elements, an ethos that is evident in his design projects. His designs strike a balance between aesthetic charm and functional purpose, without compromising the environmental considerations. He is widely lauded for resurrecting the original intent of some historic courses, with his renovation and restoration projects often yielding daily-fee, resort, and private course offerings that reflect the unique ecological sensitivities of their environments.
His prowess in fusing natural elements with design intricacies has been seen in many lauded projects, including the Barona Creek Golf Club in San Diego, a testament to his expertise in creating environmentally sensitive designs. The course highlights Eckenrode’s skillful use of native vegetation and natural resources, and has garnered accolades such as “Top 100 Courses You Can Play” by Golf Magazine.
His reverence for historical course design shines through in the triumphant restoration of the acclaimed Salt Lake Country Club in Salt Lake City, Utah. Originally laid out by Willie Watson in 1920, Eckenrode embraced the challenge of reimagining the course while preserving its iconic design cues. The project saw him respectfully updating features to match the advancements in golf technology, while maintaining its historical relevance and enhancing its visual appeal.
Another notable project is the Links at Terranea, situated in Rancho Palos Verdes. The nine-hole, par three course boasts spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, dazzling flora, and a design approach steeped in sustainability. Terranea elevated Eckenrode’s profile, earning him a spot in Golf Magazine’s “Top U.S Short Courses” list.
Eckenrode’s passion for environmental sustainability and historical design doesn’t end with his work. He is also a member of the American Society of Golf Course Architects and has served on the board of the California Golf Course Owners Association. These roles enable him to advocate for positive change in golf course design, such as promoting water conservation and sustainable practices.
While the natural environment and sustainability are intricate parts of Eckenrode’s design philosophy, he doesn’t forgo the importance of playability. He firmly believes that golf courses should be challenging yet engaging – a sentiment echoed throughout his diversified portfolio.
Integral to Eckenrode’s design process is community involvement, instilling a sense of ownership among local residents. He actively encourages community participation in the shaping of the courses and regales them with stories about the creation of some of golf’s most legendary courses.
Todd Eckenrode remains an influential figure in golf course design, renowned for his innovative yet thoughtful approach. His dedication to promoting sustainability and respect for historical designs continues to change the landscape of the sport, leaving a legacy that celebrates the mutual dependence of golf and the environment. His designs serve as an inspiration for all – a testament to the synergy between the sport we love, the nature that surrounds it, and the possibilities this unity offers.