David McLay Kidd

David McLay Kidd is a Scottish golf course architect born on December 15, 1967, in Johnstone, Renfrewshire, Scotland. Growing up immersed in golf—his father Jimmy Kidd was a greenkeeper at prestigious courses like Gleneagles—David developed a deep passion for golf course design. He studied horticulture and landscape design at Writtle University College in England, graduating in 1989. Early in his career, he worked with Swan Golf Designs and as Director of Design for Gleneagles Golf Developments.

Kidd gained global recognition with his first solo project, designing the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Oregon, which opened in 1999 to widespread acclaim. Known for his bold, naturalistic style, Kidd initially crafted challenging courses but later shifted to emphasizing playability without sacrificing strategic depth. His notable works include The Castle Course at St. Andrews, Mammoth Dunes at Sand Valley, Gamble Sands, and Queenwood Golf Club.

Based in Bend, Oregon, Kidd runs DMK Golf Design, continuing to innovate with a focus on blending tradition with modern playability. His courses have hosted numerous prestigious tournaments and are celebrated for their aesthetic beauty and strategic challenge.