Owner-Operated Outdoor Living: 29 Years of Hardscape Success in Michigan

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with Chris Obry, owner of OBRY Brick & Landscape in Armada, Michigan, to unpack how he’s built a thriving, owner-operated hardscape and landscape construction business over nearly 30 years. Chris shares how starting on a sod farm led to a turf and landscape degree from Michigan State and eventually to launching his own company back in 1997. He explains why he’s stayed focused on design-build hardscapes—patios, walkways, outdoor kitchens, poolside living areas, and planting projects—without getting pulled into mowing, fertilization, and other maintenance work. You’ll hear how COVID accelerated demand for outdoor living, what today’s homeowners expect from premium backyard projects, and why “indoor amenities outside” has become the new standard in brick and landscape design. Chris also breaks down why he’s committed to remaining the direct point of contact—from the first site visit and design sketches to being on-site with the crew—and how that owner-accessible approach has fueled near-100% word-of-mouth growth and repeat projects for customers’ kids and second homes. He talks candidly about staying small by design, training lead guys to take on more responsibility, and planning for a smooth transition as he moves gradually from field work into more sales and leadership. If you’re a contractor who wants to grow through reputation, craftsmanship, and personal relationships (without turning into a faceless multi-crew operation), this episode is packed with practical insight you can apply to your own market. Bullet points (episode highlights): How Chris went from sod farm worker to Michigan State turf grad to launching OBRY Brick & Landscape in 1997.Why he stayed niche on hardscape and construction-focused landscaping instead of chasing recurring maintenance revenue.The owner-operated model: being the one who sells, designs, and works on-site—and why clients love it.How COVID and changing homeowner lifestyles exploded demand for outdoor kitchens, grill stations, fire features, and poolside living spaces.Designing functional outdoor “hubs” for families that entertain—separating kids, adults, dining, and lounge zones the right way.Working in a rural market northeast of Detroit while still taking on referral projects across the wider region when they’re a strong fit.Building a five-star, referral-driven reputation over three decades and now doing projects for customers’ grown children and second homes.Planning the next chapter: training lead crew members, shifting toward more sales, and keeping growth aligned with lifestyle and values.