About Wave Outdoors Landscape + Design

We've established ourselves as the Chicago area's premier technology-driven landscape company, earning an unprecedented 12 consecutive years of industry awards while transforming outdoor spaces with high project values. Led by principal designer Brian Dreher, a University of Missouri Plant Science graduate and Child of Deaf Adults (CODA) with American Sign Language fluency, our Mount Prospect-based firm combines cutting-edge 3D visualization and drone technology with traditional horticultural expertise to serve affluent Chicago suburbs. Since our founding, we've distinguished ourselves through our unique blend of technical innovation, premium material partnerships, and an inclusive communication approach that has earned both the Best of Houzz Service Award (2014-2024) and Angi Super Service Award (2013-2024).

We sow beauty,
you harvest delight

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What we do

Gardens

Hardscaping

Landscape Design

Landscaping

Leadership rooted in science and inclusivity

Brian K. Dreher brings a distinctive background to landscape design that sets us apart from competitors. His University of Missouri degree in Plant Science, specializing in Horticulture & Design, provides the scientific foundation for his design work, while his upbringing as a Child of Deaf Adults has shaped our exceptional approach to client communication. This unique combination has resulted in what clients describe as an uncommonly transparent and responsive design process.

With over a decade of experience designing hundreds of landscapes throughout Chicagoland, Brian has developed a reputation for balancing technical expertise with artistic vision. His personal achievements include a 2023 Unilock nomination for Best Project Under 1,000sqft and dual second-place finishes in the iLandscape Best Landscape Photo Awards for both Winter and Pet Photography categories, demonstrating his eye for capturing and creating outdoor beauty.

Our design leadership expanded significantly in 2022 when Mary DiCarlo joined as Senior Designer, bringing her decade of experience as the owner of In & Out Design. Her transition to Wave Outdoors after successfully running her own business from 2012-2022 added depth to our design capabilities, particularly in creating landscape and hardscape spaces tailored for family entertainment. Together, Brian and Mary form "the creative minds who envision the endless possibilities for amazing new outdoor spaces."

Comprehensive services powered by cutting-edge technology

We've positioned ourselves at the forefront of landscape technology integration, offering services that span from initial design visualization to complex pool installations. Our advanced 3D design capabilities allow clients to experience their future outdoor spaces through multiple perspectives - from entrance gates to various house windows - with real-time modifications possible during consultations. This technology extends to lighting simulation, showing how spaces will appear at different times of day, creating what one client described as an experience where designs were "updated almost immediately without the slightest hesitation."

Our drone technology deployment provides comprehensive aerial site analysis for precise measurements and efficient project planning, particularly valuable for large properties and complex terrain. This bird's-eye view capability integrates seamlessly with our 3D modeling software, creating a comprehensive design approach that sets new industry standards.

Our service portfolio encompasses:

Custom pool installations ranging from vinyl and fiberglass to concrete, with complete integration of surrounding landscapes and energy-efficient equipment
Deck building services utilizing premium partnerships with TimberTech and Trex composite materials, creating multi-level entertainment spaces that can integrate hot tubs, built-in seating, and privacy features
Pergola and outdoor structures including both traditional wooden constructions and contemporary aluminum systems with motorized louvered controls
Outdoor kitchen designs featuring professional-grade appliances, weather-resistant cabinetry, and comprehensive utility integration

Residential, commercial & municipal landscaping

Find out why our clients hire us over and over again.

Technical mastery meets premium materials

Wave Outdoors demonstrates exceptional technical expertise across multiple critical areas. Their permit acquisition and management services navigate the complex regulatory landscape across Chicago's suburbs, ensuring all projects comply with varied municipal requirements from Mount Prospect to Buffalo Grove. The company's drainage solutions expertise encompasses French drains, swales, berms, catch basins, and advanced stormwater management systems using permeable pavers and bioretention basins - critical for protecting home foundations in the Chicago climate.

The company's material partnerships reflect their commitment to quality and longevity. As a Techo-Bloc Techo-Pro certified contractor, Wave Outdoors has access to premium hardscaping materials and continuing education resources. Their partnership with TimberTech and Azek provides clients with composite decking options containing up to 85% recycled materials. Unilock pavers feature prominently in their hardscaping projects, particularly their large format pavers in Granite Fusion, while partnerships with FX Luminaire enable sophisticated landscape lighting installations.

Philosophy centered on communication and innovation

Wave Outdoors operates under a clearly articulated philosophy: "Our focus is providing quality landscape design, clear and responsive communication, while keeping a healthy employee environment." This commitment manifests in multiple ways throughout the client experience. Brian Dreher's background as a CODA has instilled an exceptional awareness of communication needs, resulting in what clients consistently describe as unprecedented responsiveness and clarity.

The company's approach eschews high-pressure sales tactics in favor of transparent, honest pricing. Multiple client testimonials note that Brian often recommends lower-cost options when appropriate, prioritizing client needs over maximizing project values. Their use of advanced project management tools and the PandaDoc system ensures documentation transparency throughout the project lifecycle.

Innovation permeates every aspect of their operation, from the integration of drone technology for site analysis to the use of 3D visualization for design preview. Their sustainable practices incorporate native plant selection, efficient irrigation systems, and eco-friendly materials, demonstrating environmental responsibility alongside aesthetic excellence.