Tripp Davis and Associates’ Restoration of Northwood Club Earns 'Renovation of the Year' Award

(Norman, OK) — Golf course architecture firm Tripp Davis and Associates (TDA) is celebrating the announcement by Golf Inc. Magazine that its client, Northwood Club in Dallas, received the Renovation of the Year award in the Private Club category for 2019. Northwood Club, originally designed by William Diddel, opened in 1946 and is one of Dallas’ most historic clubs.  Northwood hosted the 1952 U.S. Open and is one of only three Texas courses ever to have hosted this championship.

In bestowing the top Private Club Renovation of the Year Award to Northwood, the Golf, Inc. judges remarked: “What a difference. The changes are very noticeable, including the removal of trees, which improved playability and turf health.  Literally a breath of fresh air. This new course offers something for all skill levels and is the talk of the town.”

“I am honored to have Northwood recognized by Golf Inc. Magazine with this significant award,” said Tripp Davis. “Our approach was to restore the original character found in Mr. Diddel’s greens, rebuild the bunkers to reflect Diddel’s style, and reposition bunkers and tees to be more strategically relevant for today’s game. To see our work elevate the status of Northwood is very gratifying.” Davis and his crew also rebuilt the practice facilities, including the driving range and designed a “Short Course” to broaden the playing options, especially for junior golfers.

Construction began in late 2016 with Davis overseeing a twelve-month major renovation and restoration of the historic course, which then reopened in April 2018. TDA and builder Landscapes Unlimited renovated or restored all tees, greens and bunkers and reshaped most fairways, along with providing new cart paths, drainage and a new irrigation system. NorthBridge, a new Bermuda grass, was introduced and used over the entire course with the exception of the Bentgrass greens, and Zeon Zoyisa bunker edges. In addition, creeks on the property were restored and a new irrigation lake was built to help recapture more water. Working closely within the City of Dallas Tree Ordinance, TDA and Northwood removed a good many trees to help with sunlight and airflow to key areas, recapture the original width of holes and original shot options, and to better expose the rolling terrain.

“The response from our membership has been tremendous throughout the entire process and since re-opening,” said Northwood general manager, Jon Davis. “Tripp really thought this through and executed nicely to give us an updated version of what William Diddel likely designed for the Northwood membership in 1946. We are truly impressed with everyone's work but are especially indebted to Tripp for his fine oversight of Northwood during this process and post renovation.  This is a great accolade that enhances the club’s reputation in the state.”

For more information about Tripp Davis and Associates, visit www.tdagolf.net or call 405-447-5259.