Unique Garden Environments

Shirley did a great job designing and installing our drought tolerant front yard. We only had vague ideas of what we wanted, and Shirley turned it into a beautiful design that is the envy of the street. Highly recommended!

The garden that was arranged through our eyes for our lawn by Shirley was magnificent. So in speaking with Shirley about the program then deciding to go forward was a decision I would make over and over again! Shirley and her design team did an amazing job on executing this project head on. They really know what they are doing by balancing and managing structure into exactly what you need, and making it look exactly on how you visualized in the mind. The preparation as well as the timing for the process was not an overwhelming issue. Her team were willing to take the time and set it up right without rushing. Not to mention on how my wife, as well as myself loves the flower decor. We are stunned by how the river bed of rocks, and mounds come together so nicely. I would like to state again job well done for the whole team in bringing this project to a perfect ending of blissful happiness. Recommending you guys is what I have been doing ever since the project started, and will continue to do so further into the future. I would like to thank everyone that had their hands in it regarding the project, process, and completion. As well as making the project a design to fit my budget! Thank you so much, Otis O.

Shirley just recently redesigned and installed an entirely new look for our front yard. We did a drought resistant succulent garden with a seating area for a fire pit and chairs. She did a fabulous job. She was very reasonably priced, timely on all of her processes and was there every step of the way. I changed a few things along the way and she was flexible and helpful during that process as well. I would hire her again in a heartbeat. Pamela Adams Long Beach Ca

Working with Shirley on our garden was a complete pleasure. She understood what we wanted, and helped us achieve it on our limited budget. As you can see when you look at Shirley's photos, she does not have a one-size-fits-all attitude toward her gardens, but works with her clients to create a garden that they will love. We had a lawn for 27 of the 29 years that we have lived in our home. For the first time, I am walking into my house noticing all of the wonderful things going on there. Why, I wonder, would anyone want to have a "lawn" when you can have a "garden" -- and Shirley is the best person to get you there!

After enrolling in the Los Angeles Turf Replacement Program, we were in need of a landscape designer to help with the design of our new front yard. We found Shirley Kost of UGE on Houzz and have been extremely pleased with her. She has been very responsive and timely in all correspondence and followed through on all her commitments, and her knowledge of water-wise plants is amazing. She first came to the house and spent quite a bit of time with us to determine our needs. Soon after, we had a plan in hand and she came by again to explain everything to us. She was then able to provide us with all the plants, which was a huge timesaver for us. She delivered them promptly when required, then spent time with us and our contractor ensuring everything was placed correctly and to her satisfaction. All this for a reasonable fee. It’s so rare these days to find someone who is so responsive and responsible. Highly recommended!

Shirley Kost managed our transition from a 'traditional" lawn to a lovely low-water garden of native plants. The praise from our friends and neighbors is constant. Shirley worked within a tight budget and was understanding of our needs to participate in the creative process. She has an extensive knowledge of plants as well as access to many unusual varieties which enhanced the unique look.

I have known Shirley Kost for many years and have worked with her on multiple projects and three homes. Shirley has an unprecedented knowledge of plant material, what works where in Southern California and, importantly, where to find it. By choosing the right plant material and redesigning the irrigation system, Shirley has reduced my water usage by over 50%. My current project has been long term as I wanted to see how things were growing in as we progressed and Shirley has had the patience to work this through with me. I would recommend Shirley for any landscaping project, large or small, residential or commercial.

Unique Garden Environments has been providing me with outstanding landscaping services for many years. Just one e-mail or phone call to them takes care of ALL my landscape design and maintenance needs at very fair prices! They are always willing to take the time to help me decide what design will be best for my home ( and budget )! If I could give them a 6 star rating, I would.