Ben Andrews, Outdoor Build Branch Manager

"It takes guts to ask a company to strip down your property and rebuild it, we get that. If you have questions along the way, ask them, if you're excited, tell your build team! We care about your project and enjoy working with an engaged client.

Our Outdoor Build branch develops extensions of your home or business outside, oftentimes creating value-adding spaces in unexpected locations. We want to make it as easy as possible for our clients to enjoy the benefits of spending time outdoors, whether that’s relaxing with family or colleagues, entertaining friends, playing sports, or connecting with nature.

We tackle a diverse array of projects including dry-laid stone patios, pathways, steps, site grading, garden & meadow installation, stormwater management and forest restoration. For stonework, our material of choice is PA flagstone, all quarried within a few hours of our shop. We love stone that makes a statement, employing oversized and unique pieces whenever a project allows.

We build hardworking gardens; they’re hubs of ecological activity, helping to manage stormwater and providing seasonal interest through color and form. We source material from local growers and nurseries, striving to use native plants that have evolved to succeed in this region.

We are so impressed with the integrity and talent of this company. They worked with us all the way from design to implementation in a way that created an environment around our home that we absolutely love. Wonderful and talented people!

Pamela Levy

The Process

In an effort to deliver the highest quality product, we work on a limited number of outdoor build projects per year, so it’s helpful to hear from clients as early as possible, in order to schedule their projects for the upcoming season.

  • After Indigenous Ingenuities' Design branch has completed their work, Outdoor Build disects those drawings and produces an estimate for the client.

  • Once the client has reviewed the estimate, we discuss the timing of different components and if there is a need to split the project into separate phases.

  • Upon receipt of deposit, we’ll schedule a tentative project start date.

  • A kick- off meeting onsite at the start of construction allows us to review any questions and introduce the build team.

  • If carpentry elements are included in the scope of work, Outdoor Build will coordinate construction details and timing with Indigenous Ingenuities Carpentry branch.

  • The manager will provide periodic updates to the client throughout construction and handle any questions, field changes, materials selections, or add-ons.

  • As we reach completion of the project, the manager will reach out to see if there are any outstanding issues, if there is anything we’ve overlooked, and confirm that we’ve met your expectations. 

  • After we finish a final punchlist and walk-through, the project is complete and final payment will be due.

  • At project end, outdoor build will introduce the client to Indigenous Ingenuities' garden care and restoration branch for seamless long-term maintenance and nurturing of the property if needed.

  • Time to enjoy!

Ben’s Recommendations

Music To Build By

Been listening to a lot of Balsam Range and other bluegrass recently, but Spotify is always on, playing a wide range of music!

Best Socks

Darn Tough, put them inside good work boots by Thorogood, Georgia, Keen or Carolina.

Indispensable Tool

DeWalt 20V Cordless Grease Gun - Spoil yourself with a battery-powered grease gun for equipment maintenance!

Regularly Read

Popular Mechanics Magazine - Best articles!

Most Useful Landscaping Tool

W.W. Manufacturing - 15” Diamond Edge Long Handle Spade - Save your lower back some strain with this simple tool!