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A Q&A with the architect 'building the world’s largest Himalayas-style putting green’ at Rodeo Dunes

Scottish golf architect Clyde Johnson is spearheading an ambitious project at Colorado’s Rodeo Dunes, where he’s constructing what will become the world’s largest Himalayas-style putting green—a sprawling seven-acre terrain of rolling sand hills. The feature, designed for Michael Keiser Jr.’s course, will dwarf the next-largest example at New Zealand’s Te Arai, which covers just three acres, and will be situated in a dramatic amphitheater below the first tees of Bill Coore and Jimmy Craig’s signature courses.

Johnson, 38, has gained recognition for his work as a lead associate on projects like Old Petty at Cabot Highlands and for thoughtful renovations across the UK, including Alwoodley, St. Enodoc, and North Berwick, all while emphasizing designs that harmonize with their natural landscapes.

His approach, shaped by his mentorship under Tom Doak, prioritizes courses that respect and amplify the unique character of their surroundings, even on smaller layouts like nine-hole courses in Scotland. Johnson also advocates for a more organic, less manicured golf experience, arguing that slight imperfections in course conditioning can enhance the variety and challenge of play.

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