Our Story

Southern Design Companies got its start as a small landscaping company in North Atlanta back in 2009. Our founder, Blanchard Benson, worked tirelessly through the heart of the recession honing the company’s culture of excellent service to keep his young business going strong. Thanks to his unshakeable set of principles, “get-it-done” attitude, and customer-first focus, he gave Southern Design a unique identity in the industry. 

After a few years, business boomed allowing the company to grow exponentially. In 2012, Southern Design opened its own nursery to better accommodate our landscaping offerings. In 2016 and 2019, we expanded again with the launch of our concrete and pier companies. 

Today we work with clients all over the Southeast, conducting business with the same values that make us who we are: Integrity, Quality, and Service.

Our Story

Our Values

Integrity. Quality. Service. That’s exactly what you get when you work with Southern Design Nursery. From the moment you reach out to the time we wrap up your project and beyond, these values will define everything we do for you.

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Integrity

Our business is built on trust. Working with us means you can count on our transparency and respect.

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Quality

No shortcuts. No false promises. We don’t settle for less than the best and make sure our workmanship reflects that.

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Service

Your ask is our task. We’ll always show up to get it done, no matter how heavy the lift.

Our People

Southern Design Nursery wouldn’t be what it is today without the help of our hardworking staff. Get to know our team leaders down below.

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Blanchard Benson – Founder & CEO, Southern Design Landscaping

Blanchard holds a Landscape Design and Grounds Management Degree from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. In 1998, he got his start in the landscaping industry as an intern. He worked in the field developing his skills and, over time, was promoted to COO of one of the largest landscape companies in Metro Atlanta at the time. He spent 7 years charged with the responsibility of managing the company’s day-to-day field operations. After being laid off during the 2008 financial crisis, Blanchard stepped out on his own and founded Southern Design Landscaping with a truck, trailer, and three employees. An expert in his field, Blanchard is often called upon by customers on a consulting basis to assist with site problems created by other trades or natural circumstances. Blanchard served our country in the United States Navy.

Todd Dunlap – Director of Development and Nursery Operations

Todd is a horticulture expert with more than 24 years of experience. He joined the SDC team in 2011 following 13 years of service at John Deere Landscapes where he served as a branch manager. Todd has both extensive training and hands-on experience in the landscaping industry. He has certifications from the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute and Gould’s Water Technology. Todd is also certified in low-voltage lighting as well as irrigation installation and troubleshooting. Todd’s extensive horticulture knowledge and his tenure in the landscaping industry have helped him to establish a well-developed network of suppliers which yields unparalleled purchasing power for Southern Design Companies.

Our Reviews