About Us
Three generations shaping landscapes that feel alive
It all started in a small family greenhouse and grew—slowly, steadily—into one of Western North Carolina’s most trusted design-build firms. Still rooted in a love of horticulture, we’re here to craft outdoor spaces that help people slow down and reconnect with nature.
Spending time in nature replenishes the soul. It reminds us of what truly matters and helps us slow down. At Gardens for Living, we believe your outdoor space should offer that same sense of calm and restoration—a place that reflects your life and your connection to the land.
And the journey to get there should feel just as natural. From our first meeting to the final planting in your garden, we'll guide you through an organized and transparent process—designed to make creating your landscape every bit as enjoyable as living in it.
For more than three decades, we've helped homeowners across Western North Carolina create and care for landscapes that inspire and nurture the human spirit through the awakening beauty of living gardens.
Love of nature is in our roots
Gardens for Living began three generations ago, when John Phillips spent his youth helping in his family's greenhouse in Spruce Pine. Surrounded by plants and green space, he developed both skill and a lifelong passion for bringing beauty to the outdoors.
That passion soon grew into a profession. After earning his degree in horticulture from North Carolina State University, John built a reputation for thoughtful planning, sustainable practices, and meticulous craftsmanship. When his son Shane joined the business in 2011, he brought fresh energy and a deep dedication to customer care.
Today, John and Shane work side by side—combining experience and innovation to serve homeowners across Western North Carolina. Backed by generations of horticultural knowledge and a family nursery that still provides much of their plant material, Gardens for Living has grown into one of the region’s most trusted full-service design–build firms.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to inspire and nurture the human spirit through the awakening beauty of living gardens.
OUR VISION
At Gardens for Living, we see…
- Homeowners feeling relaxed and inspired by the natural beauty of their landscapes.
- People connecting with each other while surrounded and immersed in nature.
- Neighborhoods revitalized by the presence of living gardens, creating pockets of natural beauty amidst city life.
- People living in harmony with nature, coexisting in balanced ecosystems.
OUR VALUES
Garden with Purpose
Our work is rooted in meaning. Every design, planting, and detail is shaped by our purpose: to inspire and nurture the human spirit through the awakening beauty of living gardens. We create spaces that not only look beautiful, but also connect people, revitalize communities, and foster harmony with the natural world.
Care for Others Like Family
When challenges arise, we stand together—as a team, as a community, and with our clients. We believe in treating people the way we’d want our own family treated: with respect, compassion, and genuine care. By building trust and supporting one another, we create landscapes that feel as welcoming and enduring as the relationships behind them.
Love What You Do
We bring passion to our craft because joy makes a difference you can feel. Whether designing, building, or caring for a garden, we embrace the work wholeheartedly, knowing that our enthusiasm and attention to detail are what transform outdoor spaces into sanctuaries. When you love what you do, the results inspire others to love where they live.
OUR TEAM
Get to know the people who make it all happen
John Phillips
PRESIDENT
Shane Phillips
General Manager
Portia Phillips
Office Administrator
Melissa Phillips
Office Manager
Rob Alexander
Landscape Designer and Project Manager
Ron Sterbenz
Lead Estimator
Jennifer Teasley
Landscape Architect
Stephen Vonheying
Irrigation Division Manager
Jessie Frye
Maintenance Division Manager
Jonathan Dotter
Maintenance Production Manager
Celestino Rivera
Production Manager
D'Shan Brendell
Account Manager
Jeff Lyons
Shop Manager
Nelson
Mechanic
Fred
Delivery Driver
Jose Santiago
Construction Production Manager
CAREERS
It's good, honest work—and we love it
We're a family-owned, growing company where hard work, good laughs, and great people go hand in hand. The job isn't always easy, but it's always worth it. Love the outdoors? Like getting your hands dirty? You'll feel right at home here.
Proudly Serving Western North Carolina
• Asheville
• Hendersonville
• Fairview
• Black Mountain
• Biltmore Lake
• Walnut Cove
• Highlands
• Cashiers
• Lake Toxaway