In this episode of The DROP Podcast, we sit down with Brian Schneider, co-owner of Renaissance Golf Design, for an educational deep dive into the world of golf course restoration, renovation, and design and how to understand the differences between each. With consulting work at Hollywood Golf Club, Montclair Golf Club, and North Jersey Country Club, Brian shares how he's helped restore and refine some of New Jersey’s most architecturally significant courses. From bunker reshaping to strategic re-routing, we explore what makes these Garden State layouts timeless and how thoughtful design can elevate playability without sacrificing classic charm.
But the lesson doesn’t stop there. Brian unpacks his role in shaping some of the world’s most acclaimed courses, including Tara Iti, Barnbougle Dunes, Cape Kidnappers, Streamsong Blue, and Sebonack plus his leadership on new builds like Old Barnwell and Stoatin Brae. Working alongside legendary architects like Tom Doak, Kye Goalby, and Blake Conant, Brian offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the design philosophies that guide elite-level course creation. Whether you're a student of golf course architecture, a New Jersey golf history buff, or just love understanding the game beyond the scorecard, this episode delivers a masterclass in how great golf is built.
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