Carving Out a Course for a New City

Golf course architect Peter Harradine is bringing a world-class design to Pakistan’s rapidly developing Capital Smart City near Islamabad.

Nine holes of the new Capital Hills Golf and Country Club are currently growing in and expected to open in April 2026, with the full 18-hole course and clubhouse scheduled for completion by 2028.

The course is carved into rugged terrain with valleys, natural rock lines, and elevation changes of up to 30 meters. Harradine emphasized preserving the site’s original character while enhancing its playability. Strategic drainage systems, multiple lakes that double as reservoirs, and extensive planting with native vegetation are all central to the design.

“We are creating a unique course that will remind this new city what their site used to look like,” Harradine said. “In fact, the course will become an environmental treasure with birds and fauna expected to make the multiple lakes their home.”

Key Features

• Challenging yet playable design with bailout areas and multiple tees

• Elevated tees providing dramatic visuals and shot challenges

• Fairways seeded with Pure Dynasty® paspalum

• Greens seeded with Platinum TE™ paspalum, supplied by Atlas Turf International

• Clubhouse situated at the end of a preserved deep valley, offering striking views of the landscape

Harradine believes the finished course could rank among the world’s top 100 courses, further boosting golf’s popularity in Pakistan.

To read the full article and more insights, visit Golf Course Architecture Magazine, Issue 81.