During a period of close to zero golf course construction domestically in the US, this thesis takes the opportunity to question the contemporary approach to golf course architecture and development. The standardization of golf course design has contributed to the social, ecological and economic unsustainability of modern golf course development. With an increasingly globalized marketplace, this thesis challenges the prevailing homogenization of golf course development with concern to the long-term sustainability of golf in emerging markets. The author turns to the architects and courses of the ‘Golden Age’ for precedent in architectural innovation and its role in establishing the game upon unfamiliar cultures. The thesis concludes with ‘Thirteen Principles for Contemporary Golf Course Development’ in which the author proposes an architect led paradigm shift towards place-specific golf course development.