With 17 years of experience in golf course architecture and academy design, former professional golfer and EIGCA architect James Edwards has built Edwards Design International (EDI) around creating dynamic golf solutions for the modern player.
From improving the customer journey to developing shorter formats, academies and range facilities, EDI focuses on increasing participation and creating new opportunities for clubs.
With more than 25 academy projects currently in development worldwide, James brings a wealth of experience from both a player and architect perspective.
At Golf Business Expo 2026, James will take to the stage for his standalone seminar, “If it doesn’t fit, make it fit – Dynamic golf solutions” exploring how clubs can rethink their existing facilities to respond to the changing needs of golfers and what ultimately attracts the modern member.
EDI have a definitive three-point-specialism upon which they have built their reputation; (i) to re-order and re-masterplan clubhouse surrounds where necessary to create a seamless customer journey and experience (ii) designing-in the shorter version of the game to respond to the time poor golfer and increase golf participation and (iii) conceiving and implementing the best-in-class short game academies and future range facilities.
Our academy experience and qualification is based solely on the cumulative time invested on driving ranges and academies across the World during James’ playing career and the knowledge of what works and what doesn’t for the modern golfer.
This information gathering has led to a deeper, more detailed understanding of the overall customer/member journey and what ultimately attracts the modern member.
After last year’s highly successful launch, the organisers of Golf Business Expo, together with their partners, have confirmed a new venue and date for the 2026 edition. The event will take place on 7th October 2026 at Sywell Aerodrome, Northamptonshire.
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Image James Edwards
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