From Farm Roots to Award-Winning Hardscapes: Craig Smith, BR Design Build

For Craig Smith of BR Design Build, the path to becoming a Belgard HARDSCAPE HERO wasn’t paved overnight. It was built through decades of grit, problem-solving and a relentless drive to do things the right way.

Craig’s journey started on the Eastern Shore, working on his family’s farm. “I’ve always been mechanical and hands-on,” he explains. That mentality eventually led him to pivot from a landscaping business into an award-winning custom design construction company. Today, BR Design Build tackles some of the most complex outdoor renovations across Maryland and Virginia, delivering high-impact transformations grounded in experience and engineered to last.

A Multi-Phase Backyard Transformation

The project that earned Craig a HARDSCAPE HERO award was an exercise in vision, expertise and innovation. Overgrown with junipers and disconnected from the home, the renovation was reimagined over multiple years and phases into a stunning outdoor oasis.

The client initially contacted Craig to renovate the area surrounding the pool. Recognizing the complexity of the site, including a steep slope, major septic issues and drainage challenges, he brought in longtime collaborator and Landscape Architect, Don Nesmith of Land & Water Design to lead the design. “You can’t sketch this kind of project on a napkin,” says Craig.

The first phase focused on building the walls, transitions and steps from the house to the existing pool. A few years later, the client called Craig back for phase two, which included a pool restoration, plumbing updates, lighting and patio pavers. Eventually, the final phase will include a pool house with an outdoor kitchen, fireplace and living area, which Craig says will bring the full vision of the outdoor living space to life.

“A Marathon of Baby Steps”

For Craig, the magic of each project is created over a fragmented journey of craftsmanship and attention to detail. He explains, “It’s a marathon of baby steps. If you complete a million individual steps, you’ll arrive at the end of the marathon able to stand back and say, ‘wow, it’s gorgeous.’ That’s the reward.”

Focusing so intently on every little step of every project also creates an opportunity for future innovation. Due to the slope of the backyard, a massive amount of runoff occurs during storms. To mitigate it, Craig installed a drainage solution using Belgard’s Belgian Cobble pavers. Not only did it eliminate the need for unsightly plastic or metal drains, but it also handles significantly more water. “Belgard’s Belgian Cobble can handle so much more water than a typical drain. It worked beautifully,” says Craig.

Commitment to Craft 

Craig credits much of his success to focusing on the details, never cutting corners and getting creative with his process. From obtaining the proper permits and clearly communicating with clients to fabricating bullnose pavers on-site and using recycled concrete base material, his dedication to craftsmanship has helped Craig build a business and team that has stood the test of time. Craig explains, “If you design smart and build it right, you can give homeowners a higher-quality project at a lower price. And if you keep your customers happy, no matter the size of the job, they’ll keep calling you back. One job turns into five over the years.”

Words of Wisdom from a Veteran Builder

After 35 years in the business, Craig is always available to share his experience and advice with new contractors. His core message is simple and clear: “Stay out of debt, buy used equipment and focus on doing quality work. You don’t need every tool or piece of equipment on the market, just the essentials and the commitment to do it right, every time.”

Craig also takes great pride in taking care of his crew, which he says is an invaluable business asset. In fact, a few members of this crew have been with him for over 30 years! “If you’ve got good people, you’re built for success.”

Looking Ahead

With each job, Craig Smith continues to push the standard for quality, efficiency and customer satisfaction. His approach is equal parts vision and engineering, backed by years of hands-on work and sharp business sense. Whether it’s a small patio or a six-figure backyard build, when BR Design Build is on the job, it’s going to be beautiful and done right.

The following Belgard Hardscapes products were used in this project:

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