Book Review/Recommendation: 'Straight Dirt: New York City's Premier Landscape Designer Tells it Like it Is'
Straight Dirt is nothing short of breathtaking. From the very first page, it’s clear this isn’t just a book about landscape design—it’s a love letter to beauty, creativity, and bold vision. New York City’s premier landscape designer pulls back the curtain to share not only the stunning visual results of their work, but also the honest, unvarnished truths about what it takes to bring such spaces to life.
The photography is exquisite—lush gardens, elegant terraces, and vibrant urban oases captured in ways that make you linger over every detail. But what makes this book truly remarkable is the voice behind the images. The author’s candor, wit, and depth of knowledge make the narrative as compelling as the visuals. It’s not all polished perfection; it’s real, insightful, and refreshingly direct—hence the perfect title.
This is more than a design book—it’s an invitation to see the soul of outdoor spaces and to understand how intention, artistry, and even imperfection come together to create lasting impact. Whether you are in the design world, an avid gardener, or simply someone who loves beautiful books, Straight Dirt deserves a place on your table and in your hands.
Stunning, inspiring, and filled with character—this book is as unforgettable as the landscapes it celebrates.
MEET STEVE GRIGGS
Steve Griggs is the founder of Steve Griggs Design, a premier landscape design and build firm he started at just 25 years old in Blauvelt, New York. With more than 40 years in the industry, he’s recognized as one of New York’s top landscape designers and has been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, Huffington Post, and even on Grant Cardone’s Power Players. Known for his bold, no-nonsense style, Steve takes pride in cutting through the fluff and telling clients the truth about what works—and what doesn’t—in outdoor living.
Beyond his design firm, Steve founded 3 Day Fences, a company that revolutionizes the typical months-long fence installation process by delivering high-quality, design-forward fences in just three days once permits are approved.
Steve Griggs will be my guest on Your Partner In Success Radio on Labor Day, September 1, 2025 and you can find this stunning book on Amazon.