McDonnell & Cooper is a golf course architecture practice founded by Sam Cooper and Joe McDonnell. We work with clubs to shape intelligent, sensitive and practical course strategies, combining architectural judgement with clear communication and a realistic approach to delivery.
Sam’s work focuses on strategic masterplanning, restoration and long-term architectural vision. He brings particular experience in routing, landscape analysis and the sensitive evolution of historic courses.
Before founding McDonnell & Cooper, Sam worked with Clayton, DeVries & Pont, contributing to projects across the UK, Europe and North America.
Joe’s work spans design, implementation and project delivery. He has a strong focus on grading, construction detail and working collaboratively with greenstaff and committees to deliver practical and lasting results.
Joe also previously worked with Clayton, DeVries & Pont on a range of international projects.
These principles shape how McDonnell & Cooper approaches course architecture, masterplanning and long-term course development.
Every project begins with understanding the land, the history and the opportunities it holds.
We work with the ground as it is, enhancing what is there so new work feels settled rather than imposed.
Good outcomes come from informed collaboration with committees, members, managers and greenkeeping teams.
Strategic options, variety and memorable playing experiences sit at the centre of design decisions.
We design for durability, maintenance reality and courses that can continue to improve over time.
McDonnell & Cooper’s current work sits alongside substantial experience gained by Sam Cooper and Joe McDonnell before the practice was founded.
The practice brings together active McDonnell & Cooper commissions with selected earlier projects and collaborations from time spent at Clayton, DeVries & Pont.
Work involving restoration, architectural review and careful evolution of established courses.
Course-wide thinking for clubs needing clearer priorities, phasing and long-term direction.
Support through construction, shaping, communication and the practical move from plan to ground.
Early conversations are often broad and informal. We are always happy to discuss projects at any stage.
