NAVID DERAKHSHAN, FOUNDER AND CEO OF OUTDOOR MAKEOVERS & LIVING SPACES, IS KNOWN FOR HIS CREATIVITY AND A KEEN EYE FOR HIS INDUSTRY. THESE QUALITIES HAVE ESTABLISHED THE COMPANY AS THE ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR BEAUTIFUL OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES.

A series of beautiful walls flattened this entertainer’s backyard and features a 2,000 square feet of open play space, a putting green, golf driving net, modern playground for juniors, outdoor ping pong table, herb garden and more. PHOTO BY PATRICK HEAGNEY

Coming from five generations of developers, builders and contractors, it only made sense that Navid Derakhshan, known by his team as “The Makeover Man,” got into landscaping when he was 14. After studying biology at Emory University, he decided to revisit his early outdoor ventures with the expertise and skill he had gained since the humble beginnings of a lawn mowing business. That side hustle became the formidable powerhouse of Outdoor Makeovers & Living Spaces. In just a few decades, the company has exhibited rapid growth. At Derakhshan’s entrepreneurial core, he is driven by the Japanese business philosophy of kai-zen, which hinges on continuous improvement. He brings that same drive and commitment to Outdoor Makeovers & Living Spaces. When it comes to what sets them apart, Derakhshan says, “Establishing ourselves as the go-to name for people’s backyards, we have to be savvy in not only landscape and hardscape but also porches, pools, pergolas, outdoor accessories, etc. to suit our client’s objectives.”

The front of this project features the same modern technologies as the back including automatic mosquito system, extensive low voltage lighting and an automatic irrigation system. PHOTO BY PATRICK HEAGNEY

By attending conventions, Derakhshan quickly realized that technology would give them their competitive edge. This attendance, in turn, enhanced efficiency so that from the moment ground is broken to the finishing tile, they can handle every part of the transformation process in-house. “I am always trying to see what’s out there that will help us be more efficient,” says Derakhshan, “We’re doing 3D virtual reality designs. It’s been out there for a while, but the question is—who is using it in our industry? We’ve embraced what’s available to help our clients have a better experience.” With such a broad umbrella of services, it begs the question of how he manages it all, to which he explains their core values. From the consultation to design to installation, the Outdoor Makeovers & Living Spaces team listens to each client’s vision, guiding them through the process to hone their desired aesthetic.

This yard was transformed into the perfect place for a cigar and whiskey. PHOTO BY PATRICK HEAGNEY

Navid Derakhshan, founder of Outdoor Makeovers & Living Spaces in front of a gas assist woodburning fireplace with fireplace storage. PHOTO BY PATRICK HEAGNEY

Derakhshan has become a consultant within the industry in his own right, striving to make positive change by helping others consolidate their technology. It’s all about the customer’s experience, creating a fluid and functional space, and getting families outdoors. When asked what the company’s next “1 % better” is, Derakhshan hints at even more growth. “We will continue to add services. Growth isn’t hard. Sustainable, organic growth with the same quality and experience will be the challenge, and hopefully, we’ve got everything to continue the same growth. Our clients love us; they support us. The thing that makes me proud is the number of returning customers.” From home project to home project, Atlantans call on Derakshan and his team to transform their backyards into the heart of the home. 2825 Piedmont Road NE, outdoormakeover.net

The multi-tier waterfall accompanied by a fire feature. PHOTO BY PATRICK HEAGNEY