Arthur Hills

Arthur Hills (1930–2021) was a renowned American golf course architect whose career spanned over five decades and left a lasting impact on modern golf architecture. Born in Toledo, Ohio, Hills earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Michigan State University and a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Michigan, blending his knowledge of agronomy and landscape design to create environmentally sensitive, strategically challenging, and visually compelling golf courses.

Hills designed or renovated over 200 golf courses worldwide, including resort, private, upscale, and public facilities. Notable courses include the Arthur Hills Course at Palmetto Dunes in South Carolina, Bonita Bay Club in Florida, and Half Moon Bay in California. He was known for emphasizing playability for golfers of all skill levels while integrating the natural features of each site with classic design principles.

In addition to his original designs, Hills was highly regarded for renovating prestigious clubs such as Oakmont, Congressional, Oakland Hills, and Inverness, often in preparation for major USGA and PGA championships. His firm, Arthur Hills/Steve Forrest and Associates, has been instrumental in evolving golf course architecture, focusing on sustainability, strategic variety, and environmental responsibility.

Hills served as president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) and was a Fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects. His design philosophy prioritized creating courses that would remain engaging and playable for decades, appealing both to casual golfers and professionals.

Arthur Hills passed away in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of bold, quality courses that balance challenge, beauty, and enjoyment for players around the world.