Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw (legendary golf architects renovating the Pines Course) don’t want to talk about “signature holes.”
That narrative from old-school course development and marketing has fallen out of favor among many fans of great golf architecture, for good reason. In trying to design one especially memorable hole, the other 17 might be best left unseen.
“We’ve failed, to be quite candid, if we have a signature hole,” said Bill Coore, “To me, that basically is saying that you spent all your efforts on that one hole. You grounded the entire golf course around one hole.” Instead, Bill Coore wants to lay out courses that flow from hole to hole, never lacking in interest while taking advantage of all the ground has to offer. He’s more concerned about the shots to be played on any given hole, less so with photo ops. That is exactly what he has done at The International. The Pines Course was designed to flow together, where each hole is just 1 part of the 18-piece puzzle. Coore & Crenshaw believe that every hole could be a signature hole to someone.
Playability, Playability, Playability
Coore and Crenshaw believe in letting the natural beauty of Bolton, Massachusetts be the reason for the picturesque holes, rather than trying to force this glamorous “signature hole.” Playability is what keeps people wanting to return over and over again.
The Pines Course: A Top Private Golf Course in Massachusetts
Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw didn’t just design a collection of individual golf holes; they crafted a seamless journey that unfolds with every swing.
At the heart of their design is a deliberate effort to link each hole, creating a rhythm that guides players from one shot to the next. This connectivity ensures that every hole contributes to the overall experience, creating a sense of flow and continuity throughout the round.
A key aspect of Coore and Crenshaw’s approach is their commitment to diversity. They carefully selected holes of varying lengths and strategic demands, ensuring there’s something to challenge every aspect of a golfer’s game. Whether it’s a tantalizingly short par 3, a strategic par 4 ½, or a temptingly driveable par 4, each hole presents its own unique test, keeping players on their toes from start to finish. Coore & Crenshaw believe that every hole should be memorable.
Drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of Bolton, Massachusetts, the designers incorporated the landscape into their vision, using indigenous materials to create distinctive features. The dramatic “Quarry” around Holes 2, 3, & 13 is a prime example, adding both visual interest and strategic depth to the course while showcasing the designers’ respect for the environment.
The close proximity of tees and greens adds to the course’s appeal, making it easy for players to navigate without sacrificing the intimacy of the experience. This walkability encourages golfers to fully immerse themselves in the surroundings, appreciating the beauty of the land with every step.
At The International’s exclusive Pines Course, Coore and Crenshaw have crafted a masterpiece reserved for Members only. Rejecting the antiquated notion of a singular “signature hole,” they’ve instead orchestrated a symphony of playability and natural beauty that unfolds across every fairway and green. Here, Membership isn’t just about gaining entry to a prestigious private golf club; it’s about embracing a lifestyle where each round is a journey through meticulously designed landscapes and strategic challenges. Come find your signature hole!
