The Atlanta Athletic Club has announced ambitious plans to renovate its Highlands Course, a decision that has excited its membership and promises to enhance the club’s reputation in the world of golf. This renovation will be helmed by renowned architect Andrew Green, with construction slated to commence in early 2028 as part of a broader seven-year master plan.
The Highlands Course has long been a key asset for the Atlanta Athletic Club, recognized as the eighth best private club in Georgia by Golfweek and earning the 129th spot in the national list of modern courses. Opened originally as a nine-hole layout in 1967, it was later expanded to 18 holes, with contributions from distinguished architects Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Joe Finger. The course's last major renovation was in 2016, led by Rees Jones.
On March 18, 2025, club members overwhelmingly approved funding for the renovation, marking a significant investment in the club's future and its facilities. “We spoke to many of the top architects in the world and concluded that Andrew is the right individual to renovate Highlands,” said John Stakel, president of the Atlanta Athletic Club. “Working with an architect of his extensive pedigree ensures the variety of golf experiences and enjoyment for our existing and future members, as well as for championship play.”
Green is no stranger to high-profile renovations; he has previously worked on notable clubs across the country, including existing hot spots like East Lake in Atlanta and Oak Hill's East Course in New York. His selection speaks to the club's commitment to maintaining a legacy of excellence: “There are few organizations in the United States that mean this much to the game of golf,” Green remarked. “Atlanta Athletic Club has produced so many great players and has contributed immensely to growing the game. I am tremendously honored to have the opportunity to build on Atlanta Athletic Club’s legacy of greatness.”
The Highlands Course has played host to some of the most significant events in golf, including the U.S. Open in 1976 and three different PGA Championships in 1981, 2001, and 2011. It also hosted the U.S. Women’s Open in 1990 and more recently the U.S. Amateur in 2014. The club is poised to welcome several more prestigious competitions, including the U.S. Amateur again in 2030, which celebrates the 100th anniversary of legendary member Bobby Jones’ Grand Slam victories. The U.S. Women’s Amateur is also scheduled for the Highlands in 2035.
The comprehensive renovation is designed not solely for its historical significance but to address the emerging needs of both members and the competitive landscape of golf. Stakel emphasized the club's responsibility to protect and enhance its assets, stating, “Few other clubs in the country have the rich history and legacy of Atlanta Athletic Club. We’re also fortunate to have a membership that understands the need to maintain our infrastructure, key features, and our championship golf legacy. It is our responsibility to be good stewards of club assets, just as past generations did the same for current members.”
In the last few years, the Atlanta Athletic Club has not only been focused on the Highlands but has also made significant investments in its Riverside Course, which underwent renovations under Tripp Davis’s guidance in 2022. This reflects a larger strategy to modernize and improve all aspects of the athletic and social experience for members, including updates to tennis facilities, athletic programs, and dining infrastructure under this master plan.
As the club gears up for this transformation, the anticipation is palpable among its members and stakeholders. With the investment of time, capital, and vision, the Atlanta Athletic Club aims to solidify its place in both the local community and the national golf scene. The next steps for the Highlands Course renovation are set to unfold over the coming months, with Green's detailed planning process kicking off immediately.
The move signifies not only a commitment to improving the course but also enhancing the overall member experience for future generations. By embracing innovation within the framework of a rich history, Atlanta Athletic Club seeks to create a golfing experience that is both unique and challenging—capable of testing the world's best while still encouraging enjoyment for golfers of all skill levels.
As members look ahead to the completion of the Highlands renovation in anticipation of hosting the 2030 U.S. Amateur Championship, it’s clear that this storied club is firmly committed to its legacy of greatness, ensuring it remains a pivotal player in the evolving game of golf.
