Tom,
I first began posting on here in 2003 as I was seeking some comment on my plans to build a golf hole(s) on my 5 acre property.
I would say my best assistance was George C THomas' Golf Course arhcitecture of America and TD's Anatomy of golf course.
as I was scared of the amount of maintenance involved, I imported a synthetic Impact green from Atlanta Georgia to here in Australia. I had the green, 7 bunkers and 10 tees (3 tee complexes) shaped by Tony Cashmore's shaper, incorporated a water storage, reticulating bore water thru a series of ponds and a 'burn', basically designed the 10 tees beginning with Sand wedge at 85 yds up thru each club to 3 iron and hybrid, at about 205 yards, with a fair bit of irrigation, but not too much.
The green site is about 360 sq feet with three pin positions and a 'fairway' area of around 3,300 sq metres.
It is a wonderful thing, with hours of fun for my family, handicap down from 15 to 7, but has required significant commitment, time and energy, but have enjoyed every minute of it. Weeds are my biggest issue.
Cheers
Brett