2007 Notables of Williamson County, Tennessee

Steve Garrett's blueprint for great landscapes -- creative design, quality installation and continuing maintenance -- is based on years of personal experience and success with residential and commercial properties across Williamson County. "Each step of the process requires extensive training and in-depth knowledge," says Steve, president of Brentwood Landscapes, Inc. Believing that technical and artistic expertise is the foundation of every great landscape project, Steve has assembled a design/management team whose members have earned university degrees and certificates in horticulture and landscape design.

"To create a landscape that thrives and remains beautiful as it matures, you must understand the plants' horticultural needs, both at planting and as they grow," Steve points out. "You must also know how to properly integrate them into the site with other structural elements, such as arbors and patios, to create a visually inviting outdoor environment that will welcome guests and add value to your property."

Family-owned since 1999, Brentwood Landscapes offers a comprehensive array of landscaping services -- including landscape design/build, irrigation systems, lighting, and water features. The company's masonry craftsmen are experts in all aspects of stone, brick and pavers, often installing unique, custom-designed inlays, borders and patterns. The key to creating any beautiful landscape is its initial design. "Landscape design is a visual art that relies on the principles of balance, scale, variety, symmetry and repetition," according to Steve. "That's where our designs really excel. Our landscape designers have the skills to artistically combine elements of the landscape and the hardscape to best enhance the property's primary structure, whether that's a home, an office building or a retail complex."

Client participation in the design process is a cornerstone of Brentwood Landscapes' success. "Before we initiate a design project, each client completes a detailed questionnaire," he explains. "We ask a broad range of questions, from what colors and plants they prefer to how often they entertain outdoors. We ask and then listen. When we present the design, it's not only what they need, but it's also what they want." Brentwood Landscapes also provides grounds maintenance services with professional care to take your initial investment to fruition as it matures. "That, along with our warrantee, completely protects our clients," says Steve. "Our clients then have the time to entertain friends or simply relax while they enjoy their new outdoor 'living' room."