It’s a new year which usually gives people a fresh perspective, a new outlook on things with a sense of optimism at the beginning for something fresh and new. That is one of the things that continues to keep me motivated 11 years into this podcast, which, to be completely honest with you, I wasn’t sure would work. It has taken me years to realize that growing this show has been very much like the process behind landscape design. Follow me…

Dan Houchard is the creative behind From the ground Up, the Dallas, Texas based landscape design, installation and garden maintenance company started in 2005. I was thinking about my own journey as I prepped for my chat with Dan. I was thinking about all of. the things I wish I had known at the start. The things I learned along the way and what I wish I would have known sooner. Landscape architects have to see what’s not there, but will be over time as their design grows and matures into what it is supposed to be. I think that pretty much defines all of us who have undertaken the creative path. Dan and I explore that concept as he shares his journey. We take a deep dive into his company tenets and principles that have allowed his firm to thrive in The Big D and beyond. 

It’s important to note that Dallas has a rapidly changing weather pattern that goes from cold-to colder to hot, dry and wet. Sometimes all in the same day with areas of dry soil and super-active soil making landscape planning more than just a challenge. Here’s how Dan approaches that and a number of other issues.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it's just a bathroom.

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance - Providing design to those in need.

Thank you Dan for taking the time to chat. This is why I love doing this and why it is so rewarding for me to share these stories with you.Thank you to my partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Design Hardware and Moya Living for your continued and unwavering support of the show and for the design community.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD