Golf Architects/Designers: Dan Maples

Dan Maples is an American golf Architect born in Pinehurst, North Carolina in 1947 into a family whose roots in golf course construction reach back into the 19th Century. The Maples family, since Dan’s great-grandfather James; have been involved with golf either as professionals, superintendents, builders or architects.

At the age of six, Dan designed his first golf course and was handling earth moving equipment before he had his driver’s license. During summer vacations Dan worked for his father gaining valuable experience in golf course construction and maintenance.

“When you are building a golf course, you have to please three different groups of people; pros, superintendents and owners. Having experience as all three gives me an edge because I know what each is looking for.”–Dan Maples

After receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Georgia in 1972, he worked as a club pro for two years. In 1974 Dan joined the firm of his father, Ellis, as a full partner. Together, the team of Ellis and Dan Maples helped create 17 superb courses including Grandfather Mountain in Linville, NC, and the Country Club of North Carolina Dogwood Course in Pinehurst.

Since forming Dan Maples Design, Inc. in 1984, Dan has gone on to become one of the most successful golf course designers in America. His impressive list of courses includes many of America’s finest golf courses; abroad he has designed courses in Germany, Spain and Japan. Dan Maples is a past president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects.