Designer Spotlight: Mike Riley Where Course Design Meets Creativity

Few match Mike Riley's eye for golf-inspired landscapes. His work transforms synthetic turf into a golfing masterpiece that mimics the feel of premium golf courses. With roots tied to iconic mentors like Nicklaus Design and Robert Cupp, Mike brings his own brand of visionary craftsmanship to every creation.

THE MASTER CRAFTER OF GREENS

Michael Riley Design demonstrates a passion for strong design details and eye-catching but playable synthetic greens. Fascinated since youth by the role of topography and layout, Mike Riley draws from his experience working with Nicklaus Design and Robert Cupp. Valuing the legacy of thirty-five years of professional golf course design, Southwest Greens formalized a relationship to bring authentic golf features with cutting-edge synthetic turf surfaces.

Graduating with a degree in Horticulture from Clemson University and an early pro golf career, Mike was offered a game-changing chance to work for Jack Nicklaus' design firm. As both a site coordinator and a design associate, he was privileged to be work on Nicklaus golf courses in various regions around the globe including Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii and Japan. He literally learned the craft of course design and construction from the ground up with the master himself. One of the courses he worked on, the Kiele course at Kauai Lagoons, won Best New Resort Course by Golf Digest magazine in 1989.

Step onto one of Mike’s greens and you’re part of a journey where intentional, clean shapes meet the thrill of your best game. Every hill and hazard is the result of a journey through experience and passion. Working closely with our Southwest Greens team, Mike ensures that every green feels professional and looks beautiful — whether it’s a private practice putting green or a full estate course.

CREATIVE EXCELLENCE, ELITE PERFORMANCE

For golf lovers seeking championship quality putting greens in a personal setting, Mike’s creations are a true standout. His unique blend of design vision and synthetic turf performance delivers greens built to perform. If you’re dreaming of backyard putting green luxury that rivals your favorite course, now’s the time to get started.

MAKE YOUR HOME A GOLF DESTINATION

Get in touch to learn how the experts at Southwest Greens can bring championship design right to your Austin home. Perfect your putt and let your skills flourish!