Our Story

Darkhorse Design and Build is a locally owned and operated design-and-build company specializing in landscape design, hardscapes, patios, and outdoor living spaces. Established in 2017, we have 8 years of experience delivering high-quality craftsmanship, detailed planning, and customized outdoor environments across Northeast Ohio. Our services include paver patios, landscape design, retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, fireplaces, swimming pools, spas, outdoor rooms, walkways, driveways, landscape lighting, decks, water features, interior stonework and design, property maintenance, holiday and special event design, and holiday and special event lighting, among others. Darkhorse Design and Build in Tallmadge, Ohio, can be reached at (330) 780-4663.

Our Company's History and Values

Our owner, David Baughman, brings over 21 years of industry experience. Graduating from Tallmadge High School in Northeast Ohio in 2004, he studied construction management at the University of Akron in 2009 and has worked on high-profile landscape and hardscape projects throughout the U.S. David continues to expand his knowledge by attending annual hardscape and landscape design conferences, ensuring we stay at the forefront of trends and best practices. For him, design is a lifelong passion, not just a career.


Our team of professionally trained craftsmen and installers is dedicated to putting the customer first, striving for excellence, and listening to your needs from start to finish. We take a customized and personal approach, creating unique patios and outdoor spaces tailored to each client. Committed to sustainability, we use responsibly sourced materials and eco-friendly installation practices to reduce our carbon footprint. Proudly based in Northeast Ohio, we support local small businesses and find joy in enhancing and connecting with our community. We're not just another brick in the wall—and neither are you.

Man with short dark hair smiling, slightly turned to the side, wearing a light-colored shirt.

David Baughman

Owner/Designer

Darkhorsedesignandbuild@Gmail.com

Customer Reviews 

Hear from our satisfied clients. 

★★★★★

This rave review is LONG overdue. I was introduced to Darkhorse Design after my husband and I got scammed out of several thousand dollars when building our back patio. David came over, identified the work that needed to be redesigned, removed, and replaced. He was prompt with his quotes, very easy to communicate with, and quick to get to work once we signed off on the designs. He and his crew are some seriously hard workers. They definitely came with blinders on and were efficient, tidy, and in and out as quickly as they could be while still doing high quality work. When Darkhorse announced they were going to do Christmas decorating in the winter, I jumped on that immediately!! I had David come up with the design; and, he handled everything from decoration acquisition, to install, to tear down, and storage. They absolutely crushed it! You will not be disappointed in this investment. Darkhorse is fantastic!


– Rachel T.

★★★★★

We hired Dave to build a raised patio where we used to have a deck. Dave worked with me on the design and helped us pick out the materials. He worked on it in March when the weather can be a little tricky, but it didn’t stop them from getting done in reasonable time. We have spent the summer enjoying our new outdoor area. I recommend Dave and Darkhorse for your paver/ Patio projects.  


- Scott T.

★★★★★

David is good guy to work with and does excellent work. Very knowledgeable and even more creative.


– David C.

★★★★★

David and his team made my dream patio come to life! Within 15 minutes of seeing my space, David locked in a vision and was prompt in sending over a design to move forward at a very fair price. The team worked quickly without sacrificing attention to detail. Communication was great every step of the way. Would highly recommend using Darkhorse for any upcoming projects!


– Vince M.

★★★★★

David and his team were amazing! Super efficient and timely, very helpful with design ideas and kept us on budget! My new patio and firepit are up in running just in time to use all fall.


– Kenzie S.

★★★★★

Just completed our patio. Very professional and easy to work with. Always on time and kept us informed if there was a change. Very pleased with the finished patio! Would highly recommend if you need a contractor!


– Beth R.

Contact Our design & build Experts

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