Twenty years ago, Ryan Boynton wasn't sure what career path he wanted to pursue. Fresh out of high school, he found work in masonry, discovering not only a trade but a passion for creating spaces that families would enjoy for decades.
Now, as owner of Gibraltar Masonry, Boynton has spent two decades transforming properties throughout the region, blending craftsmanship with thoughtful design to create outdoor spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.
"What I love is the creative aspect of it," Boynton said. "Every job is different, every job requires a different detail. I love being able to step foot on a property for the first time and see the change that it's going to experience throughout the duration of the process… seeing that transformation and how much it has changed and how usable it's going to be."
That philosophy extends beyond patios and retaining walls. While outdoor living spaces remain one of the company's most requested projects, Boynton encourages homeowners to think about the entire property, especially the front entrance.
"A lot of our competition focuses on the backyard," he said. "The front entry is big. A new sidewalk, a new front porch, or a new structure over a landing or porch area can completely change the appearance of a home."
Today's homeowners are also redefining what outdoor living looks like. Fire pits, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, spas, herb gardens, and dedicated spaces for dining, lounging, and cooking continue to grow in popularity as people look to bring the comforts of home outside. "Everyone is trying to take the inside out," Boynton said.
Designing those spaces starts with listening. Clients often arrive with inspiration photos and ideas, which Gibraltar's team refines through conversations about style, color palettes, textures, functionality, and budget. Detailed 3D renderings help homeowners visualize how the finished project will look and function before construction begins.
For Boynton, lasting style is rooted in materials that have stood the test of time. "Brick and stone work have been used for thousands of years. They're not going anywhere," he said. "Bluestone is a product we use often."
While design trends evolve, larger-format pavers, integrated outdoor lighting, and wellness-focused features continue to shape today's landscapes. Boynton believes the best projects balance timeless materials with practical design, creating spaces that reflect how each family truly lives.
After 20 years in business, Gibraltar Masonry continues to handle everything from paving patios and retaining walls to concrete overlays and custom masonry work, all performed by its in-house team. Licensed, insured, and backed by warranties that exceed many competitors, the company remains committed to the same goal that inspired Boynton from the beginning: asking the right questions, communicating clearly, and creating outdoor spaces where families can gather for years to come.