Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Myhra
Hi Daniel, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started working in the industry as a teenager, I loved being outside and physically building things with my hands. My family has been in the landscaping industry in some form since the 1950s and it just felt comfortable to me. Even at an early age I have always had a deep passion for all things based in art and expression so I inevitably was drawn to design. I spent quite a few years cutting my teeth designing while I was still in the field installing when I decided to leave the field and focus specifically on design and sales. I went to school while still working and ended up with a Associates in Business Management with a focus in Landscape Design and Horticulture and eventually on the U of M for a Bachelors in Environmental Design. I partnered with my mentor for 8 years as a design build firm and continued to grow and develop my style, skillset, and abilities to meet the needs of the whole spectrum of client type. When my mentor decided to retire I started my own practice and have been doing design and build as Myhra Design Group ever since. I enjoy working with my clients in developing ideas and designs into spaces that are special to the client, functional, aesthetically pleasing, comfortable, and cozy. Nothing makes me happier than knowing the the designs I dream up are cherished and well used.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely has been a bumpy road but grit and perseverance will always overcome. I have always been surrounded by people who have bestowed confidence in me to never stop growing. Construction is an incredibly imperfect industry and if you cant move on the fly you get left behind. I have always believed your true character becomes visible in times of struggle or strife. My mentor always used to say, “in this industry you can’t get sick at sea or you will drown.” Mistakes or adjustments in business, life, relationships are inevitable and I believe as long as you follow your internal compass, treat others the way you would want to be treated with the goal of leaving this world with a legacy of kindness and generosity, the rest will always fall into place inevitably. So yes, there have been struggles, but I can honestly say every single one was an incredible learning experience that has sharped my skillset to be as good as I am today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a unique designer because of the 20+ years I have spent in the field installing in additional to all of my years as a designer. I have a high understanding of both the construction and design side of landscaping and specialize in, but not limited to, in ground swimming pool projects, and complete outdoor living spaces. My understanding of the unique challenges that come with complicated projects, space management, design and construction challenges, combined with my high level knowledge of horticulture helps me create unique ideas and spaces that make my clients feel like their spaces are truly catered directly to them. My communication with client and workforce, excitement to see my art come to life, and genuine approach to design and construction make the experience of working with me much more personal than most. Because of this seeing my clients use and interact with the work that I do is what is most fulfilling to me and what I am most proud of.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I have too many people to mention in word without it being a short novel but a few people that would be at the top of the list.
My father Dan Myhra got me started in landscaping and always was willing to show me the way, even when I didn’t want to hear it. He has always been interested and proud of the things that I have done and still asks what projects I have going on and what I’m doing with genuine excitement and curiosity.
My uncle Tim Myhra who ran one of the largest sod installation companies in Minnesota downright scared a work ethic right into me (it was the 90s) that I have fostered and been proud of ever since.
My Mentor Tom Buckley for showing me what sincere and genuine design, build, and sales at a higher level was all about, as well as the appreciation for the art of design as well as being a great friend.
My wife Sara and our 4 kids for supporting my endeavors and always being ok with random jobsite stops and listening to me say, “I worked on that house,” in every neighborhood we pass through.
My mom Francene Myhra for her gift of creativity, love of art, and an entrepreneurial spirit with a dash of chaos.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.myhradesign.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myhradesign/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myhradesign/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MyhraDesignGroupMN
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/myhra-design-group-lake-elmo
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@myhra.design
