Today we’d like to introduce you to Thomas Brame.
Hi Thomas, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Sure! I am originally from Charlottesville, Virginia and went to the University of Georgia for Undergraduate. It was there I discovered the field of Landscape Architecture and knew immediately that’s what I wanted to pursue. After graduation my wife and I briefly lived in Charlottesville and Annapolis before coming back to the Atlanta area to stay. I love Atlanta for many reasons, but a major reason is the cities deep garden and design heritage.
I’ve had the privilege of working and studying under some of the best garden designers and landscape architects in the area, including Land Plus Associates and my last design mentor, Carson McElheney. I launched my design business in the Spring of 2021 under the name of Brame Landscape Architecture. Since then, I have been very fortunate to work with some incredible architects, and amazing clients in both Atlanta and throughout the Southeast. I love my profession and its incredibly meaningful to be a part of the Atlanta Design Community where I can help create or restore gardens for my clients to enjoy.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Looking back at it with rose colored glasses, it looks like a beautiful climb. However, I’ve learned a lot, grown through making mistakes and putting in long hours. When I was coming up, there was a lot of pressure, and you had to learn things quickly. I definitely made mistakes and learned through dealing with the consequences. That said they didn’t break me and I had people who would help me get back on my feet even after a setback.
When I started my career, the economy was still recovering from the great recession, and the building industry was of the hardest hit. That period was probably the most difficult because it wasn’t clear if I would be able to pursue my current career. I think it’s an important lesson, that I learned then, to keep moving even when you are uncertain of the outcome or worried about a negative outcome. I’ve found when you work through that fear, usually on the other side is resolution to the problem and you’ve grown a little from the experience.
We’ve been impressed with Brame Landscape Architecture, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Sure! We are a boutique Landscape Architecture Firm specializing in bespoke gardens for both new and existing homes. By carefully listening to our clients and thoroughly studying each site, we create gardens that are beautiful, timeless, and tailored to individual needs.
We are a licensed Landscape Architect with projects across the Southeast and the Metro Atlanta Area. We offer complete Site Design Services, including Construction Administration for residential projects of all sizes. Our team frequently collaborates with architects, interior designers, general contractors, and other design and construction professionals.
We have cultivated strong working relationships with the finest Atlanta Area craftsmen, landscape contractors, and builders. Through close collaboration with contractors during construction, we ensure that project outcomes consistently exceed our clients’ expectations.
Our collaborative approach has resulted in lasting partnerships and consistently outstanding project outcomes.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I’ve tried to make time, even when I am busy, to go to industry event or accept invitation from collogues for after work engagements. At events like this, I think the most important thing to keep in mind is trying to make genuine friendships. Strike up conversations with people you are interested in and then continue the relationship after. People want to work with people they like, no matter how successful they are. Older professionals want to help younger professionals, and they want to know they’ve made a difference and appreciate appreciation. I also make a habit of gifts and thank you notes or emails. It should match the help a person has given you, but if you get some good advice from someone, then sent them a note saying than you. If someone recommends you to a client, then get them a gift and say thank you. Gratitude goes a long way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bramelandarch.com
- Instagram: @brame.la
Image Credits
Emily Followill – image 1,2,5,6,7,8
Jeff Herr – image 3,4
