Meet Jack Dyer of Moon valley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jack Dyer.

Hi Jack, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in Minneapolis, MN, and while construction was always a part of my life, it wasn’t something I imagined myself doing. In fact, as a kid, I hated most of the home projects I was a part of. I never thought I’d end up in construction, let alone build a career out of it. But life has a funny way of leading you exactly where you’re supposed to be.

My first real exposure to building came when I started framing houses part-time. Despite my reluctance at first, I found myself drawn to the precision and the process of making sure every piece was cut correctly, square, and plumb. Framing isn’t beautiful—it’s raw and utilitarian—but there’s something undeniably satisfying about seeing the skeleton of a structure take shape, and beyond. Watching as the skeleton was fleshed out and dressed—seeing form take shape, transforming into a home, and noticing how even a slight change in materials could make breathtaking differences in the final product. It was that transformation, from bare framework to finished structure, that stuck with me and where I think my passion for designing spaces, then building them, was really born.

From there, I worked in different industries, never fully realizing that the skills I was picking up along the way would eventually come together to shape my career. Eventually, I found myself in Arizona, where I took my first steps into landscape design. The beauty and challenge of working with the desert environment pushed me to think creatively about how to blend natural elements with functional outdoor spaces. I quickly developed a reputation for innovative solutions and a keen eye for detail, and that momentum led me into the world of pool design.

I focused heavily on pools, and as my expertise grew, it opened up occasional opportunities for interior and home or casita design. Those projects allowed me to explore the potential of designing entire properties from the ground up—spaces that were not just beautiful but thoughtfully crafted to fit the families who would live there. I found that I loved the challenge of integrating indoor and outdoor elements into a cohesive, livable environment. This holistic approach to design helped me understand the importance of creating a seamless flow from the exterior to the interior—making the whole property feel intentional and unified.

Throughout my career, I worked for several of the valley’s largest and most successful firms in senior design roles. My intent was always to make a real difference—to both design and build spectacular spaces that people would be proud to call their own. Unfortunately, I found it challenging to find other establishments and people that truly aligned with that vision. I’ve always believed that money isn’t everything—doing things right the first time and serving clients with integrity should come first. But surprisingly, that mindset hasn’t always been easy to find in the industry.

That dedication to quality and innovation earned me recognition, and I was honored to receive awards for landscape and pool design in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. Those achievements were a reflection of the passion I bring to every project and my commitment to creating spaces that inspire. I take particular pride in tackling complex projects, especially hillside applications where technical challenges meet artistic vision. There’s something uniquely rewarding about making a difficult site not just functional but beautiful.

In addition to my design work, I pursued the qualifications to solidify my career as a builder. I hold an Arizona KA Dual Engineering Contractor’s License and am currently working toward my KB Dual Builder’s License to expand my ability to take on even more ambitious projects. My philosophy has always been to keep pushing myself—to learn, to grow, and to never settle for anything less than exceptional.

But along the way, I faced some tough lessons. I put my trust in partners and coworkers, hoping to find that sense of collaboration and shared ownership. Time and time again, I found myself disappointed as priorities shifted away from quality and integrity toward cutting corners or focusing purely on profit. After yet another bad situation, I realized that I couldn’t keep putting my future in someone else’s hands. I needed to take control and create something that truly reflected my values and standards.

That realization was the push I needed to start building on my own. Now, I’m channeling everything I’ve learned—the hard lessons and the successes—into creating a brand that reflects my commitment to quality, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. I’m proud to be building something that is mine, rooted in integrity and driven by the passion I’ve developed through years of hard work and persistence. It hasn’t been an easy road, but I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything. Every project is an opportunity to prove that you don’t have to compromise quality or your values to build something great.

I still welcome any and all who are interested in working to build amazing things together—those who share these seemingly simple yet rare principles and live by the same code. If you believe in doing things right and putting integrity above profit, there’s always a place on my team for you.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. In fact, it’s been anything but. There have been times when it felt like every step forward came with a setback. One of the hardest challenges was realizing that not everyone in the industry shares the same commitment to quality and integrity. I’ve always believed that doing things right the first time, no matter how tough or inconvenient, is non-negotiable. But time and again, I found myself working alongside people and companies that were more interested in cutting corners or making a quick profit than building something worthwhile.

I worked for some of the valley’s largest and most successful firms in senior design roles, determined to make a difference and create exceptional work. But over and over, I ran into the same problem: when it came down to it, money took priority over quality and craftsmanship. I wanted to build things that would last—structures and spaces that people could be proud of. Unfortunately, not everyone sees it that way, and it became harder and harder to find like-minded professionals to align with—people who would uphold standards of integrity or even just be decent at times.

One of the most difficult experiences was stepping out on my own after realizing that the partnerships I’d built didn’t share the same vision. I had to confront the reality that I couldn’t rely on anyone else to uphold the standards I believed in. That was tough to swallow, but it was also the turning point. It pushed me to take ownership of my work and build something that truly reflects my principles and commitment to quality.

I’ve learned a lot through the struggles—how to navigate tough decisions, how to hold onto integrity when it would be easier to compromise, and how to keep pushing forward no matter how many obstacles come my way. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. Those challenges shaped who I am as a builder and as a person, and they continue to drive me to do better with every project.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a designer and builder specializing in creating exceptional outdoor environments, from luxury pools to complete landscape transformations. My work is driven by a commitment to quality, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. I’ve built a reputation for taking on complex projects—with a special interest in hillside applications—where technical challenges meet artistic vision. There’s something uniquely rewarding about making a difficult site not just functional but beautiful, and I take pride in transforming spaces that others might shy away from.

What sets me apart is my holistic approach to design. I don’t just focus on one element or another—I think about how every piece fits together to create a space that works seamlessly from the ground up. It’s not just about aesthetics, but how people will actually live and move through the space. My designs are deeply personal and tailored to each client’s lifestyle, so every project feels unique and intentional. I want people to feel like their outdoor space is an extension of their home—somewhere they can truly live.

I’m known for pushing boundaries and bringing a high level of craftsmanship to every project. That dedication to quality and innovation has earned me multiple awards for landscape and pool design in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. But I’m most proud of the reputation I’ve built for doing things right—the first time, every time. There’s no cutting corners or compromising on integrity.

It hasn’t always been easy. The industry is full of people willing to cut corners or chase profit at the expense of quality. But that’s not how I’m wired. I believe that building something worth having means doing it right, no matter how long it takes or how tough it gets. I’m not just in it to get the job done—I’m in it to build something that will stand the test of time.

At the end of the day, what I’m most proud of is the impact my work has on people’s lives. Seeing clients step into a space that feels uniquely theirs, built with intention and care—that’s what drives me. I’m here to keep raising the bar, one project at a time.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My dog, Bailey, was my first best friend. When I was a toddler, every morning was a battle over breakfast—usually a banana chocolate chip muffin. As soon as I sat down to eat, Bailey would mob me, determined to get her share. Her strategy was simple but effective: she’d start by tugging at my pants until they were around my ankles, while I laughed hysterically, trying to keep my grip on the plate.

Eventually, I’d lose the fight—either dropping the muffin onto the carpet or watching it roll off the plate. That was her cue to claim half. I’d give her a piece, and I’d keep the other, and that was our routine. It probably wasn’t the best breakfast for a dog, in retrospect, but Bailey lived a long and full life. She was a real one, from those muffin mornings onward, and I wouldn’t trade those memories for anything.

Pricing:

• Onsite design consultations are free of charge, and include drone mapping services
• Most designs usually start around 1,500 and go up from there depending on size, scope, and complexity
• Design fees are credited toward any contract work we do

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.innovativeby.design
• Instagram: @innovativexdesign and @yeeyeelandscapeme
• Facebook: @innovativexdesign
• LinkedIn: @innovativexdesign
• Youtube: @innovativexdesign

Image Credits
Jack Dyer