Kawonu will unfold atop a 290-acre parcel next to the Reedy River that once was home to members of the Cherokee Nation. The name "Kawonu" is derived from the Cherokee word for the ducks that populate the ponds and streams on site. The water features will be utilized in the course routing, which also navigates rolling terrain and wooded, boulder-strewn bluffs.

"It’s a stunning piece of ground," Green told the Greenville Journal during a September 2024 visit. "At the forefront of our mind is to enhance and amplify it, not to destroy. It is such a magical place. There is so much that’s already inherently here that we can draw from. The principles that have guided the best golf in the United States are in place here. The idea is that we utilize the ground really well. We find unique ways to play over, around, across it. Those are critical."

Ferrell, who set up nearly 100 course design contracts worldwide on behalf of Gary Player Design, knows a great site when he sees it.

"Somebody said earlier it’s like nature’s already moved the dirt for us, and that’s a nice way to put it," he said. "It’s a tremendous site with tons of variety. It’s just really tailor-made for a championship golf course. We’re creating an enclave that will add a unique concept to the golf landscape of the Upstate. Local members will not have to travel to 'get away' and national members will not only enjoy the relaxed club environment but take in the wonderful town of Greenville."

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