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Garrett Koch: Home Grown Success

By Caitlyn Stair, Diamond Certified Research Reporter

Few things are more rewarding to Garrett Koch than handing over a finished outdoor space and watching the homeowner see it for the first time. From expansive hillside estates to secluded properties tucked among trees, he approaches each project with a focus on craftsmanship, thoughtful design and creating a space that the client will enjoy for years.

Garrett’s connection to the landscape construction industry began early. As the second-generation owner of Koch & Associates, Inc., he grew up around the family business that his father, Doug Koch, founded in 1978. “I started when I was just 16 years old,” he recalls. “I worked on the landscape crew during the summers, mostly to earn some money and learn about the company.”

After briefly attending college, Garrett realized he preferred hands-on work and decided to join Koch & Associates full-time in 2012. He spent nearly a decade wearing multiple hats—first as a laborer, then as a foreman and superintendent. Along the way, he learned every aspect of the landscape construction process firsthand. “My dad thought it was important for me to follow that path,” he says. “At the end of the day, we are a construction company, so being skilled and knowledgeable about that side of the business is very important for an owner.”

Garrett now oversees all aspects of Koch & Associates following his father’s retirement at the end of 2025. While stepping into the role of owner came with new pressures, it also marked the culmination of years of preparation. “It’s something I’ve been working toward for my entire career,” he says. “Finally getting here has been exciting, challenging and emotional all at once.”

Drawing on his extensive field experience, Garrett focuses on construction management and guiding projects from concept to completion. “My biggest strength is taking an idea and getting the client to the right outcome,” he says. “It’s about delivering something that’s beautiful, functional and built to withstand the test of time.”

Garrett says one of his favorite parts of his job is seeing how outdoor spaces transform both properties and the way people experience their homes. “When we finish a project, the clients are left with a beautiful yard that becomes their sanctuary. It’s their place to relax and enjoy time with their family.”

Garrett was born and raised in Livermore, where he still lives with his wife, Lindsay, and their two cats, Cinder and Willow. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, cooking and participating in car enthusiast groups throughout California. An avid fan of classic rock, jazz and modern instrumental music, he especially enjoys quiet evenings at home listening to records with his wife after a busy workday. “One of my greatest joys is coming home, putting on a record, making dinner and just unwinding together,” he says.

Looking ahead, Garrett is excited about growing Koch & Associates and continuing his father’s legacy while embracing new design trends and outdoor living innovations. He says he’ll always remain committed to integrity, respect and doing the right thing…even when it’s difficult. “There are always tough decisions in business and life, but when it comes down to it, doing the right thing is the way to go.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: If you could time-travel, would you go to the past or the future?
A: The past. I’d love to spend time in the 1970s and experience all the incredible musicians touring during that era.

Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl?
A: An early bird. I enjoy the quiet mornings before work—it’s when I do some of my best thinking.

Q: What’s your dream car?
A: A Porsche 911. I’ve always loved European cars, and that’s definitely one I’d love to own someday.

Q: If you could immediately travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Japan. I’d love to experience the culture, food scene and beauty of the country.