About
Dennis is a life long naturalist who has been fortunate enough to work in many aspects of landscaping. Early in his career, Dennis was fortunate enough to work at a Walnut Creek retail nursery. This provided an environment where he learned about the many plants, soils, and complexities of landscapes. He developed an understanding of how the Bay Area’s varied microclimates could impact each of these.
In 1981, the nursery closed but Dennis had created some strong customer relationships. He began doing landscape maintenance for many of these clients. Many of these individuals then sought Dennis’s assistance in building beautiful, complex landscapes. As a result, Dennis obtained his contractor’s license and Meadowbrook Design, a landscape construction firm, was born.
Early in Meadowbrook’s life cycle, Dennis knew that he needed to gain some knowledge. Thus, he hired expert professionals who taught him how to install irrigation systems and lay patios, build retaining walls, pools and the outdoor kitchens and other elements that turn backyards into the extended living spaces that Bay Area homeowners love.
Family
Dennis has four grandchildren, all of whom live in the Bay Area and whom he sees often. In his spare time he loves to read, hike, go to movies and, of course, garden—“I never tire of design, of making things grow, planning my next project. Working in my yard is a creative outlet and very soothing for me.”
Associations, affiliations, and degrees
Bachelor of Science, Landscape Architecture, University of California at Davis
California Licensed Contractor, Landscape Contractor (c-27 653272)
Member, Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD)
Member, California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA)
California Certified Nurseryman
Member, Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce
Contact Dennis at [email protected]
Kristen Murray
Kristen grew up watching her father and grandfather take care of their landscape with love and attention. Joining the family business was never part of her plan but she did have a creative eye. Kristen got her degree in Fashion Design and worked for several large brands before moving on to Medical Sales.
During the pandemic is when things shifted and she discussed working with her dad to help him retire. After a few months of shadowing Dennis, Kristen quit her job and starting working with her dad full time. She picked up the design skills needed quickly because of her background and learned to love the beautiful plants and design aspects of landscape.
One thing she loves most about being a Landscape Designer is the ability to help her clients transform their space into something they will love and can get a lot of use out of. She also loves that she gets to share this passion with her dad. Kristen plans to help her dad retire and continue as the 3rd generation of landscapers in the Murray family.