Brian Dreher landscape designer

Brian Dreher

Principal + Designer

 I love bringing a backyard to life! As a Landscape Designer and business owner, I've got a passion for crafting unique and unforgettable outdoor spaces. From decks that bring the comfort of the indoors outside, to patios that are made for entertaining, and outdoor kitchens that are the heart of your home. My designs aren't just practical, they're also polished. Think: pergolas with cozy, lit firepit evenings and landscape light magic every night.

Outside of work, Brian's world revolves around his family, with one child and another on the way. His interest in photography gives him a creative outlet to capture and treasure their moments together. Additionally, his ability to communicate in American Sign Language (ASL) and being a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA) show his dedication to clear communication and inclusion. These parts of his personal life naturally blend into his professional work, leading to a landscape design approach that emphasizes connection, openness, and a strong sense of community with nature.

Ready to elevate your outdoor game? Let's make it happen!

Awards

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Brian's innovative designs and commitment to quality have earned him numerous accolades, including a Unilock Nomination for Best Project Under 1,000sqft in 2023 and second place in the iLandscape Best Landscape Photo Awards in both the Winter Photography and Pet Photography categories. These awards reflect his ability to capture and create beauty in outdoor spaces.

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Professional Journey

Brian Dreher embarked on his path to becoming a leading landscape designer after graduating from the University of Missouri with a degree in Plant Science, specializing in Horticulture & Design. This solid educational foundation has equipped him with a deep understanding of plant biology, design principles, and the nuances of creating harmonious outdoor spaces that balance aesthetic beauty with functional use.

With over a decade of experience in the field, Brian has honed his skills and expertise, positioning him as a trusted authority in landscape design.

His journey began with a vision to transform outdoor living spaces into areas that not only captivate and inspire but also contribute to the well-being of the environment and the people who inhabit them.

Over the years, Brian has applied his rigorous academic knowledge and practical experience to a wide array of projects, each time pushing the boundaries of what is possible in landscape design. His approach is deeply rooted in a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and the personalized needs of his clients, ensuring each project is a reflection of his passion for the outdoors and his dedication to excellence.

Approach to Design

Brian Dreher's approach to landscape design is distinguished by a meticulous blend of technology, collaboration, and material selection. At the outset, advanced tools like drones are utilized for comprehensive site analysis, laying the groundwork for the detailed 2D and 3D designs that follow. This ensures that every landscape plan is not only tailored to the specificities of the environment but also aligned with the client's vision.

Collaboration is central to Brian's methodology. Working closely with landscape architects and developers, he ensures that every project benefits from a synergy of expertise, leading to outdoor spaces that are both innovative and reflective of the highest design standards. This partnership extends to the careful selection of materials, where Brian chooses only the finest selections from industry leaders such as Azek-TimberTech, Unilock, and Techo-Bloc, guaranteeing that the aesthetic appeal is matched by longevity and sustainability.

In Brian's designs, functionality and elegance are harmoniously balanced. From sustainable stormwater management systems to inviting outdoor living areas, each element is thoughtfully integrated to enhance the outdoor experience. By prioritizing client collaboration and leveraging his expertise in both the technical and creative aspects of landscape design, Brian ensures that each project transcends expectations, embodying a perfect blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal.

Brian's Featured Projects

Long Grove IL

A testament to Brian's ability to integrate functionality with elegance, this project features a backyard remodel with a hot tub, rebuilt deck, patio, pergola, and outdoor fireplace, all complemented by strategic outdoor lighting and landscape design.

  • Pergola & Patio
  • Retaining Wall
  • Patio Pattern
  • Water Feature
  • Deck
  • Hot Tub
  • Backyard Design
  • Lighting Design
  • Outdoor Design
  • Outdoor Fireplace

Palatine IL

Demonstrating Brian's flair for creating inviting outdoor entertainment areas, this project includes a custom pergola, outdoor kitchen with bar, patio, and firepit, all designed to enhance the home's outdoor living experience.

  • Custom Pergola
  • Steps
  • Patio
  • Landscape Design
  • Lighted Walkway
  • Outdoor Kitchen
  • Firepit
  • Outdoor Design
  • Outdoor Living
  • Front Yard Patio