I would find it hard to believe that an architect's design is greatly influence by the average amateur (it's hard to design landing areas for 50 yard slices and topped shots which the majority of amateurs are accustom to...none of which frequent this site
).
I myself would design with the Professional and the "A" Amateur player in mind when it came to the ideal look and intended line of play for a hole, especially considering my course would most likely be hosting a major within a few years
. After that, I would then attempt to place all other tees so that players playing from those yardages would hopefully enjoy and be challenged as well.
The PGA of America's "Tee it Forward" initiative must be a nightmare for architects...although I do agree that most people are not playing from a distance that will give then an opportunity to make birdie or par (aka have fun).
I myself got to "play" Architect when laying out a Junior Course at my current facility. I planned for two sets of tees and based it off of two skill levels. The total yardages for 18 holes came out to 1830 and 3051 (our yardage from the tips is 6328). I based the tee location off of what I though would give my junior the best chance to make par (even if that meant part 4's that they can practically drive the green.
My other thought process was I wanted the junior to be able to keep up with mom or dad while playing. For the shorter tee, most par 5's or Par 4's with forced carries became short par 3's. I know make my juniors all start from the shorter tee until they can shoot "par". Then they get to move back.
FYI here is the "Tee it Forward" info....
Driver Distance
Recommended 18-Hole Yardages
275 6,700-6,900
250 6,200-6,400
225 5,800-6,000
200 5,200-5,400
175 4,400-4,600
150 3,500-3,700
125 2,800-3,000
100 2,100-2,300
The theory is if a Pro hits driver (300) wedge (130)...so should the amateurs (Driver-250, Wedge-100..or Driver 200, Wedge 70). It's not just about the drives ending in the same position. That's tough to design for.