Landscape designer Joshua Dean’s challenging first career as a journalist is what led him to his second. “I found myself seeking refuge in my own garden as my reporting became increasingly focused on national security,” he recalls. “I would remember a trip I took to Kyoto—the color and feel of the moss, the meandering paths, and the rock gardens. These memories, coupled with the seasonal wonder of my own garden, motivated me to complete George Washington University’s landscape design program.”

Now, after more than 20 years designing and building gardens, Dean, who works at Wheat’s Landscape Design + Construction, looks to architecture, plant material, clients, garden history and literature for inspiration. “I integrate these aspects to create unique gardens with their own sense of place,” he observes. “The artistry of farmers, container craftsmen, sculptors, masons, carpenters and expert installers adds special qualities to every garden I envision.”

Dean’s projects include comprehensive property transformations, cultured poolscapes, four-season gardens and unique destinations. In each case, Wheat’s performs a careful evaluation of local regulations to ensure every proposed landscape can be built and planted as designed.

Dean is one of nearly 200 staff members at Wheat’s. The company strives to execute the build and maintenance phases of each project to the highest degree possible. “Wheat’s is a community-based, family-oriented business,” Dean says. “We care for properties at all stages and seek long-term relationships with our clients.”

Joshua Dean has received numerous accolades, including Grand awards from the Landscape Contractors Association. He has appeared on TV in Ask This Old House, Curb Appeal and Indoors Out.