We specialize in bluestone, from countertops to walkways, interior entryways, fireplaces and even wine cellars, combining natural elements with the beauty of bluestone.
2023 closed with 22 fully completed, multi-faceted projects.. Hardscapes, Flatwork, Natural Landscaping, and even fireplace design and installation. Check out the portfolio.
“It has been a long journey from working out of a pickup truck to owning my own business” For over 30 years the Mike Socha has been designing and installing incredible spaces.
At The Naturalist, I bring my lifelong passion for nature and over 30 years of experience to every project. Growing up with a family heritage rich in craftsmanship, I specialize in stone work and bluestone, creating landscapes and hardscapes that blend beauty with functionality. From designing rock gardens inspired by my father to building patios and walkways with the precision of my great-grandfather’s masonry skills, my work is a tribute to my roots. Every project reflects my love for the outdoors and dedication to making natural spaces both stunning and harmonious.
At The Naturalist, the quality of our work speaks volumes. My journey from working out of a pickup truck to owning a thriving business is a testament to my dedication and skill in landscaping and hardscaping. Each project is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting my deep understanding of stone work and bluestone. My clients can see the mastery in every design I create, inspired by generations of craftsmanship in my family. The satisfaction and joy my clients experience with their transformed outdoor spaces are the true measures of my success.
I’m Mike! I am a landscaper and hardscaper with 30+ years of experience.
I was born in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains in Connecticut, but I grew up in a small rural town in Indiana. My passion and love for nature started at an early age. Working outside with nature and designing landscapes and hardscapes is a part of my heritage. My great grandfather Henry was a master bricklayer and stone mason, building historical landmarks, such as the Flatiron Building and the Empire State Building in New York City. My grandfather Joe was a carpenter and inlay woodworker. My mother was an avid flower gardener and possessed a talent and passion for wreath making and creating dried flower arrangements. My father enjoyed vegetable gardening and creating rock gardens.
Being indecisive about my career path, I had a conversation with my mother one afternoon as we were filling pots with soil for planting summer annuals. I discussed with her my idea of pursuing a horticultural degree at Purdue University. The rest is history! In the fall of 1994 I entered Purdue University in the Landscape and Horticulture Design program. During the summers I worked in nurseries to gain hands-on experience and to learn more about various plants and trees.
I moved to Michigan in 1997 following my graduation from Purdue with a B.S. in Horticulture. I began my first professional job at Land Arc in Bingham, Michigan, and in 1998, I decided it was time to try working on my own. My first job was for a retired lawyer in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. On this job I met a contractor who became a mentor and close friend and would lead my career in a new direction – creating The Naturalist. During this venture, I have met many knowledgeable, creative, and influential people who inspired and taught me about business, stonemasonry, and landscaping.
It has been a long journey from working out of a pickup truck to owning my own business – but one that has allowed me to follow my passion and love of nature. When I am not working on a landscape or hardscape project, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, and being a sports enthusiast.
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