Graham Kimak, certified since 2012 with the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD), graduated from Clemson University in 1994 with a degree in Landscape Architecture. Since 1991 he has worked for two landscape firms in the Upstate. In 2009 he opened his own business, Graham Kimak Landscape Designs, (GKLD) LLC and the company has grown to include four additional employees. Over his 30+ years of experience, his designs have been published in several magazines and have been featured in local garden tours. He was selected as one of Greenville’s Best and Brightest 35 and Under in 2007. During his career, Graham has created over 3,500 designs of residential homes, parks, commercial spaces, neighborhood entrances and new development areas. The majority of his work is in the Upstate, however he has completed designs over the entire Southeast from Washington DC to Alabama.
Mission Statement
“Relaxing, fresh, classical, elegant, simple… these are just a few of many characteristics that Graham Kimak Landscape Designs strives to achieve in our landscape and garden designs. With every client having different needs, likes and desires, it is our job to listen and then translate those wishes from words… to paper… to reality. Our process begins with a preliminary plan, then revisions, and finally a completed landscape plan. The final product includes construction details, a thorough plant list, and a maintenance schedule. By using some of the best contractors in the upstate, we are able to complete your project by managing all aspects of the installation process. Along with the client, Graham Kimak Landscape Designs wants to combine our ideas and visions to create a detailed, aesthetically pleasing and functional landscape for you, your family and friends to enjoy for many years to come.”
Staff Bio
Graham Kimak -
President
In the 30+ years that Graham has worked in the Landscape Architectural industry, he has enjoyed helping many homeowners successfully create inviting and beautiful outdoor spaces. A huge Steelers fan (he is originally from Pittsburgh), he has equal attachment to the Clemson Tigers, his alma mater. He thinks no project is too small and is proud to give his personal attention to all projects at our firm.
Awards and Community Involvement include:
Student President of American Society of Landscape Architects
Voted Greenville Magazine's Best and Brightest 35 and under, Class of 2007
Design and Preservation Commission Member for the City of Greenville 2004 - 2009
Greenville Literacy Association, Board Member 2005 - 2007
Mentor for Greenville Tech Charter High School program, 2007 - 2008
Past President of Neighborhood Home Owners Association, North Main area of Greenville
Hands on Greenville volunteer
Habitat for Humanity Home builder with wife, family and friends 2004
Sean Kearns - Associate
Sean originally hails from New Jersey where he completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Landscape Architecture from SUNY. His studies overseas in Barcelona, Spain set the pace for him to work for a company that did international hotel and resort landscape design. Sean eventually found his way to the Upstate after working many years in Florida. His artistic passion is crafting beautiful woodworking pieces with live edge material. He joined GKLD in 2021 and does design work, assists in plan revisions, creates final drafts, and is the lead on site analysis.
Jennifer Weeke -
Office Coordinator/
Draftsperson
Jennifer moved to Greenville for a management position 20 years ago, after graduating from USC in Columbia, and fell in love with this beautiful area. She came to GKLD with an extensive background in the mental health field, with a diverse knowledge of how many different businesses operate and has always enjoyed interacting with the public. Her enduring interest in the landscape design field and love for outdoor spaces brought her to GKLD in March of 2020. She handles client services and keeps the office running happily and smoothly. Recently, she expanded her scope of work to include becoming a draftsperson. She looks forward to assisting clients achieve their outdoor design dreams and getting them started on the path to the yard they’ve always wanted!
Lynda Kimak -
Office Manager/CPM Assistant
Lynda began working with Graham at GKLD before they opened their doors. From the beginning she has managed the business and financial aspects of the company. Recently, she expanded her responsibilities by assisting with managing all utilities in our installations. In addition to working as a teacher at First Baptist Day school, she enjoys her role at GKLD handling payables, receivables, payroll and bookkeeping. Oh, and she is married to Graham.
Jessica Roberts - Assistant Office Coordinator
Jessica joined GKLD in the spring of 2024 with a professional background in content writing, project management, and client coordination. She finds joy in connecting with clients, delving into their stories, and sharing in their excitement as their landscape design visions unfold. Outside of work, Jessica loves spending time outdoors with her family and trying her hand at various hobbies from cake baking to fly fishing.
Riley -
Office Mascot
Riley is the welcoming committee at GKLD. She will be sure to say hello to everyone and loves to show off her toys.