Sunnybrook Country Club

Sunnybrook Country Club sits in Grandville, a suburb southwest of Grand Rapids in western Michigan. The course was designed by Bruce Matthews, a Michigan-based architect who worked primarily in the mid-twentieth century and created several layouts across the state. Matthews typically routed courses that worked with existing terrain rather than imposing dramatic earthmoving, a practical approach common to regional designers of his era. The property occupies rolling terrain characteristic of the Grand Rapids area, where glacial activity left gentle elevation changes and natural drainage corridors. Courses in this part of Michigan often feature mature hardwood trees framing fairways, with oaks and maples providing definition and seasonal color. The routing likely takes advantage of these natural contours, creating variety in stance and approach angles without severe climbs. Sunnybrook serves as a traditional private club for the Grandville community, offering a full range of member activities beyond golf. Clubs of this type in mid-sized Michigan cities typically emphasize family programming and social events alongside competitive play, with the course serving as the centerpiece of a broader recreational and dining experience. The layout provides a straightforward test of golf suited to a range of abilities, reflecting Matthews' design philosophy of accessibility combined with strategic interest. Members play a course that rewards local knowledge of how the land moves and where the architect positioned hazards to challenge specific shot shapes.