Tiger,
Without addressing the subject matter that initiated this conversation, let me give you some information that might dispel some of the assumptions that you have made, probably as a result of things you have read.
First of all, the idea that JN is partially responsible for "runaway costs". The truth is that JN is very, very conscious of construction costs and he consistently tries to keep the costs at a minimum while producing the best course for a particular site. Some are more costly than others. Jack rarely makes any demands on a developer to spend $$ on flashy amenities, ie waterfalls, bulkheading, earthmoving etc. A prime example of this is at the Pronghorn project in Oregon where two new courses are/have been constructed/designed by JN and another architect. Investigate the amount of earthmoving for each course and you will find that JN, being conscious of cost, designed a course that required 1/5th the amount of earthwork initially.
JN will make suggestions about design enhancements, like sand quality, stream development etc, that he will leave to the budget and discretion of the developer. He doesn't demand such by any stretch of the imagination. Because developers are generally selling golf related real estate, they will make a value calculation and determine the extent of the amenities and often decide to spend the $$$$ for the sake of the project, not because JN had demanded it, as so many want to think.
Now it may be true that the JN design fee may relate to what you feel escalates costs. But you must realize that most of JN designs are real estate related and JN's fee is part of the overall marketing package, and according to Barrons, is worth the $$$ spent. That is why you find so much repeat work from the same developers of high end real estate and resorts.
For this very reason I must differ with your conclusion that JN has had the best sites. While it is true that JN has had many excellent sites, to my knowledge he has never had a site of the likes of Sand Hills, Friar Head, Bandon or Pacific Dunes. The reason why, I believe, is because his courses are generally part of the real estate development or resort package. To my knowledge, in 20 years, JNhas not had the opportunity to work on a totally sand based site with the native cool season grasses, that is what makes the above sites so special. So, I disagree that JN has had even the same opportunity that other architects have had to work on this type of site where real estate was not the priority and driving force for the development. I am also quite sure that should he be given that opportunity, the resulting course would not be disappointing.
The courses that you are probably most familiar with of JN's are probably in the south or west where bermuda grass is the dominant grass. As you know, it is very difficult, if not impossilbe, to create a course with this grass type and soil condition, that will rival those found in sand belts and cool season, prarie type grasses. Just the comparison of C and C's work at Barton Creek and Friars Head , and how they are received should be an accurate example of this dilemna.
Thanks for letting me clear up what I believe a real misconception of JN's work.
GEAUX TIGERS!!!
