Michigan’s Meadowbrook CC Celebrates Centennial Anniversary with Major Golf Course Renovation

Distinguished Detroit Area Club Experiencing Dynamic Growth

(Northville, MI) — Meadowbrook Country Club, one of suburban Detroit’s legendary private golf clubs, has embarked on a major renovation of its historic 1916 course to mark the milestone occasion of its 100th anniversary. Originally designed by Scottish classic architect Willie Park, Jr., with a later contribution by the renowned Donald Ross, Meadowbrook selected Arizona-based Andy Staples to direct the extensive makeover of its vintage course. Staples, a rising star, won the assignment over several top “name” designers who interviewed for the opportunity.

Meadowbrook Country Club enjoys a rich history and the club has hosted a number of prestigious national and state tournaments, including the 1955 PGA Championship won by Doug Ford. The former PGA TOUR Motor City Open also was contested for four years at Meadowbrook with Ben Hogan winning the inaugural tournament in 1948. Chick Harbert, the club’s most famous head professional, won the 1954 PGA Championship title and played on two Ryder Cup teams, including the 1955 squad as captain.

“Andy Staples' keen sense of vision and passion for golf architecture is allowing for something special to take shape here at Meadowbrook,” said general manager Joseph D. Marini. “Willie Park Jr.'s parkland features, which have been prevalent throughout the property for the past 100 years, are being paid homage through Andy's design work. I feel the Centennial design he has created will solidify Meadowbrook as one of the premier courses in the region.” ​

Meadowbrook is closed for play in 2016 as architect Staples implements the phases of his extensive master plan. Renovation work includes the rebuilding of greens, tees, bunkers, and a few holes are being re-routed in order to improve the course’s playability for all skill levels. Some new tees also will be added. Importantly, significant water conservation will result from better drainage. Staples visited a number of Willie Park Jr.’s finest heathland designed courses in England and he plans to incorporate some Park influences by planting tall fescue in rough areas and introducing ingenious mounding. The newly renovated golf course is expected to re-open in the spring of 2017.

“What Meadowbrook has going here in Northville is absolutely fantastic,” says architect Andy Staples. “I'm honored to be a part of their storied history and witness the energy and enthusiasm the members have for the game of golf and their club. Our plan for the golf course reflects the DNA of what makes Meadowbrook so special. Not only does it take into account the needs of today’s members but it positions the club to be truly sustainable for the future. I'm excited to see it come to fruition.”

As the metropolitan Detroit area now undergoes a renaissance, Meadowbrook Country Club also is poised for a vibrant future entering its second century. With the reputation as an exceptionally family-friendly club that values tradition and camaraderie, Meadowbrook’s comprehensive golf course renovation has it positioned to rank as one of the region’s finest private club membership experiences.