The Style of the home’s architecture helps inform the landscape design.  Also, the inherent qualities of the site, constraints as well as opportunities, are essential to the plan. And, of course, the priorities and desires of the homeowner are translated into aspects of the design. Our design approach follows a process, with flexibility to allow the design team to fully address the complexities of each project.

A good design creates a plan where all of the features within the space relate functionally and aesthetically to one another. We design the spaces first - then furnish them with plants that create an ever-evolving year round interest.

A good design must consider utilities, adjoining buildings, zoning and local construction codes. Understanding the site – soils, drainage patterns, slope, microclimates, etc. is critical to designing and building a garden that has potential for longevity.

The client is the reason for the project. We involve the client in interactive reviews during the design. It is their goals for the project and their budget that rule the final work. Budgets may change depending on the client’s changing perception of what is possible. The designer is responsible for creating the spaces that fit the client.

Susan Harrison, APLD – Design Director
Certified member, Association of Professional Landscape Designers

Susan formed the company and began practicing professional design in 1990. She became certified in 1997.

Ian Thompson – Design Associate
Member, Association of Professional Landscape Designers

Ian is a graduate of the University of Minnesota’s College of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (now College of Design), with a degree in Environmental Design. In 2009, Ian relocated from St. Paul, Minnesota where he worked for a landscape design firm focused on sustainability and native plant communities. He is very fond of the land and people of the Pacific Northwest and nearly every morning catches his breath when a sublime new picture is painted across the sky, sea, and landscape.

Jim Harrison – Project Coordinator

One of the original team members, Jim brings to the group a background in building construction and a strong knowledge of local resources and communities. Over the years, he has absorbed (and practiced) all of the technical details of landscape structures, from the types and use of masonry hand tools to the nuances of low-voltage lighting photometrics.

We are also very fortunate to have an experienced, dedicated crew of installers. We have worked hard to assemble a team that is hard working, professional, and focused and they share with us the pride from working toward high standards of quality, beauty, and finish.