Joe Raboine, currently serving as the Vice President of Design at Oldcastle APG, brings a wealth of expertise to shape the landscape industry’s future. In his role, Raboine focuses on enhancing outdoor spaces to make them more livable, usable, and comfortable for homeowners.
Early Roots and Entrepreneurial Spirit:
Raboine’s journey began with a strong familial influence, learning construction skills from his father. “I grew up in the construction industry. My father was a carpenter, so I always had tools in my hand from the time I could walk,” he recalls. This early exposure fueled his passion for creating and crafting, leading him to establish his own hardscaping company in 1992. Reflecting on those beginnings, he remarks, “In ’92, my brother and I started our own landscaping and construction company. We got into hardscaping because we saw it was starting to become a trend.”
Pioneering Innovation:
Raboine’s entrepreneurial journey took a significant leap when he patented a groundbreaking process for modular fireplaces and kitchens in 2007. This innovation not only advanced his career but also revolutionized the industry. “I actually invented a product back in 2007 called the Belgard Elements Collection. It’s the first modular outdoor kitchen and fireplace system,” he explains. This commitment to innovation has been a driving force throughout his career.
Leadership at Oldcastle APG:
Joining Oldcastle APG, Raboine assumed a leadership role to shape the company’s design direction. “I was hired by Oldcastle APG to lead their design efforts nationally,” he elucidates. In this capacity, he has played a pivotal role in driving the company’s design initiatives forward, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in outdoor living spaces.
Advocacy for Well-Being:
Beyond his professional endeavors, Raboine is a strong advocate for the holistic benefits of well-designed outdoor spaces. “Outdoor living is really about improving the quality of life for homeowners. It’s about spending more time outside with family and friends,” he emphasizes. His advocacy underscores the profound impact that thoughtfully designed outdoor environments can have on mental and emotional well-being.
Educational Outreach:
Raboine is deeply committed to education and mentorship within the industry, sharing his knowledge and insights to inspire the next generation of designers and contractors. “I spend a lot of time teaching contractors and designers how to build better outdoor living spaces,” he articulates. Through his mentorship efforts, he seeks to elevate the standards of outdoor design and construction while nurturing emerging talent.
A Vision for the Future:
Looking ahead, Raboine remains focused on driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of outdoor design. He envisions a future where outdoor spaces seamlessly blend beauty, functionality, and sustainability. “The future of outdoor living is bringing all of the amenities of the indoors outside,” he envisions. With his leadership and vision, Raboine continues to shape the landscape industry, leaving an indelible mark on outdoor living spaces for years to come.
