Paul Jansen is the principal architect for Jansen Golf Design and Construction.
Paul grew up in Durban, South Africa and was quickly introduced to golf at an early age. “The fabled Durban Country Club was a pitch and putt away from where I lived and some of my first and fondest memories of golf were the wonderful views, from our house, of the golf course nestled in the dunes with the sea as a backdrop”.
My fascination for golf would continue as it soon became apparent that I not only had passion for playing golf but also for studying the golf courses I played. Golf courses like Durban Country Club and Royal Johannesburg have had a profound effect on how I view golf Architecture today.
Having completed a BSC (Hons) degree in Town and Regional Planning in 1999, Paul headed to Washington DC, USA where he worked for local golf architect and former ASGCA President Tom Clark.” My time in the USA was invaluable in that I was given a real opportunity to experience all facets of the business. I had a good balance between time spent in the office understanding processes and working on drawings and reports as well as time spent on site getting a feel for design implementation and the construction side of the business. I also became engulfed in golf course literature and classic golf architecture during my time in the USA and this passion continues today. “
In 2001, Paul moved to Europe where he based himself in London, United Kingdom and then Geneva, Switzerland. “Moving to Europe afforded me the opportunity to visit and study some of the great golf courses of yesteryear as I travelled throughout the British Isles and Continental Europe”.
Paul joined Faldo Design in 2004 – the golf design office for Sir Nick Faldo.” I have been fortunate to work with Sir Nick Faldo as an associate and Lead Architect on golf projects in the Asian, European and African continents. My time with Sir Nick Faldo, on site and in the office, has certainly impacted many of my views on golf architecture and in particular my views on strategy. Strategy, as a key component to any great golf course, is something Sir Nick Faldo explores to a great extent on every project.”
In 2011 Paul established Jansen Golf Design and Construction with offices in Asia and North America. He aims to utilise his experience and nurture his passion for golf architecture, working across the globe, in creating memorable and sustainable golf experiences.
