About

Established in 2016 by two lifelong industry professionals, Bruce Clay and Tyler Marshall, Oak Valley Custom Hardscapes has quickly become one of Richmond’s top choices for custom hardscape design and installation. With Bruce’s background as a former president of the Virginia Society of Landscape Designers (VSLD) and Tyler’s extensive experience in the hardscape business, the two met while working in the field. They decided to strike out on their own to deliver exceptional craftsmanship and personalized service to the Richmond area.

Starting with just two employees and one machine, Oak Valley began building its reputation—literally brick by brick. From New Kent to Lake Anna, Bruce and Tyler took on projects across the Richmond region, consistently delivering high-quality results. As the company’s reputation grew, so did the team, with Oak Valley hiring and training skilled specialists to meet increasing demand. Today, with multiple crews, Oak Valley completes a wide variety of projects, from intricate pool decks to custom walkways, each designed to enhance the beauty and functionality of the client's outdoor space.

To further elevate their offerings, Oak Valley brought on additional designers, including Rick Rice, who has over a decade of experience in landscape and hardscape design. With a graduate degree from the University of Richmond, Rick has worked on projects ranging from small walkways to large-scale, $100k+ water features and paver patio installations. His expertise has helped Oak Valley push the boundaries of design and functionality in every project.

Today, Oak Valley Custom Hardscapes is Richmond’s premier destination for expertly crafted outdoor spaces. Whether looking for a simple, elegant walkway to improve accessibility or a large, transformative patio and pool deck to create the ultimate backyard retreat, Oak Valley brings over 50 years of combined experience to every project. Our team is dedicated to creating timeless designs and delivering the highest quality installations that add lasting value and enjoyment to homes across the region.

Our Team

  • Donnie Newman

    POOL/HARDSCAPE DESIGN & SALES

    Donnie has over five years of experience in fiberglass pools and hardscapes. He began his career as a project manager, where, for a year and a half during the COVID-19 pandemic, he was responsible for installing shells, coordinating with subcontractors, and redesigning projects as needed. Three and a half years ago, his role evolved to focus on client relationships. In this capacity, he designs complete backyard projects, including pools, patios, walls, and water features, and manages sales. Donnie has helped over 150 families bring their backyard dreams to life. In his spare time, Donnie enjoys playing golf and spending time with friends and family.

  • Tim Hess

    HEAD OF DESIGN & SALES

    As a Virginia Certified Landscape Designer and Horticulturalist, Tim Hess brings over two decades of experience in the landscape design-build industry to his role at Oak Valley. His career spans a diverse portfolio of projects throughout Virginia and Ohio, where he has developed a reputation for blending artful design with horticultural expertise.

    Tim leads Oak Valley’s design and sales efforts with a hands-on approach, creating captivating outdoor spaces that are both functional and beautiful. His eye for detail and passion for craftsmanship shape every phase of the client experience—from the initial consultation to the final flourish.

    Outside of his professional work, Tim draws inspiration from nature in his backyard garden, enjoys painting and music, and embraces the outdoors through skiing, golf, and other seasonal adventures.

  • Tyler Marshall

    HEAD OF OPERATIONS

    Tyler Marshall brings over 20 years of hands-on experience in hardscape construction, with a proven track record of delivering thousands of projects ranging from intimate garden walkways to expansive 3,000-square-foot pool decks. As the Co-Owner of Oak Valley for over a decade, he has played a key role in shaping the company’s reputation for craftsmanship and reliability. From retaining walls to fireplaces, Tyler has seen and built it all, giving him a uniquely qualified perspective that ensures every job Oak Valley does is completed to the highest standards. 

    A Powhatan native, he now lives with his wife, children, and their growing collection of livestock on their farm in Lunenburg, where he enjoys the balance of family life and rural living.

  • Jessica Hull

    OFFICE MANAGER

    Jess has several years of experience in customer service, operations, and management, ranging from working with small local teams in Washington, D.C., to larger operations with Patagonia on the West Coast. Well-traveled, new experiences checked off, and a little sunburnt, she has made her way back to Richmond as an Office Manager for Oak Valley. Having attended school at VCU and with family nearby, she is happy to be back home and now be part of the Oak Valley team. She'll ensure you have a pleasant, well-intentioned, and streamlined experience with the team.