--- title: "Design Focus International — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/design-focus-international-pfvwus-pf~1040328628 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1040328628.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Design Focus International" category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/8ac3bae500744a19_8425-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "PO Box 485, Ben Lomond, California 95005, United States" latitude: 37.0882 longitude: -122.0887 phone: "(831) 508-3249" website: http://www.designfocus.com rating: 5 review_count: 15 years_in_business: 42 best_of_houzz_awards: 4 followers: 364 last_updated: 2026-09-07 --- # Design Focus International > Industry Leading Northern California Landscape Architect & Designer Original Houzz profile: [Design Focus International](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/design-focus-international-pfvwus-pf~1040328628) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers - **Location:** Ben Lomond, CA - **Serves:** Palo Alto, Santa Cruz, Los Gatos, Los Altos, Saratoga, Monterey, Scotts Valley, Hillsborough, Soquel, Capitola, Ben Lomond, Atherton, Opal Cliffs, Woodside, Boulder Creek, Monte Sereno, Seacliff, Bonny Doon, Pasatiempo, Bay Area - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (15 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2014–2024), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - Houzz Industry Research - Barometer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 100,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - High-end - 42 years in business - Verified Hires ### Business highlights - Best of Houzz winner - 42 years in business - High-end - 2 Verified Hires The purpose of our Design Community is to create joy, to improve the quality of life for humans and all living things and to act as facilitators in the healing of the environment and the human spirit. Design Focus is a Landscape Architecture and Construction firm located in Ben Lomond, California. We are currently involved in a wide range of projects including commercial, public, and large-scale residential gardens, as well as historical renovation, habitat restoration, permaculture, and retreats. Because we are building multiple large-scale gardens concurrently we have extensive knowledge and expertise in following the design process through to completion and work regularly with a wide range of specialty contractors. Check out an interview about us on "This is SF" here: https://youtu.be/yHCx6bahyGM ### Services Provided - Landscape Design - Garden Design - Hardscaping - Landscape Plans - Patio Design - Drought Tolerant Landscaping - Site Planning - Custom Fire Pits - Pool Landscaping - Custom Water Features - Swimming Pool Design - Gazebo Design & Construction - Design Consultation - Outdoor Lighting Design - Deck Design - Project Management - Organic Gardens - Pond Construction - Shed Design & Construction - Edible Gardens - Custom Bocce Ball Courts - Living Walls - Greenhouse Design & Construction - Natural Swimming Pools - Childrens' garden - Construction Drawings - Deck Building - Habitat restoration - Masonry - Trellis Construction - Woodwork ### Areas Served - Palo Alto - Santa Cruz - Los Gatos - Los Altos - Saratoga - Monterey - Scotts Valley - Hillsborough - Soquel - Capitola - Ben Lomond - Atherton - Opal Cliffs - Woodside - Boulder Creek - Monte Sereno - Seacliff - Bonny Doon - Pasatiempo - Bay Area ### Typical Job Cost $100,000 - 5 million We work with clients either on a time and materials or bid contract. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Design Focus International | | Address | PO Box 485, Ben Lomond, California 95005, United States | | Phone | (831) 508-3249 | | Website | http://www.designfocus.com | | Years in business | 42 | | Followers on Houzz | 364 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/Design-Focus-120995637929585/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Design Focus International](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/design-focus-international-pfvwus-pf~1040328628) - **Website:** http://www.designfocus.com - **Phone:** (831) 508-3249 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Certifications: 2010-Present LEED AP, B C and D certification2010-Present Member US Green Building Council 1981-Present LA License \#3763 Design Focus 1981-PresentContractor License \#433018 Design Focus - Visit our website for list of awards: http://www.designfocus.com/about-us/ - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2014–2024), for Service. **Affiliations** - [American Society of Landscape Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/american-society-of-landscape-architects-pfvwus-pf~2014062207) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 15 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Kristi Saso, Nov. 2017** > Rebecca and her team at Design Focus are AMAZING! Rebecca's artistic vision, vast knowledge and expertise coupled with her professional, friendly and can-do attitude make her an absolute pleasure to work with! We receive countless compliments on our beautiful front yard and I always attribute it to Rebecca. ### All 15 reviews **★★★★★ — carmelben, Dec. 2023** > Hiring Rebeca Dye and her husband Hank Helbush of Design Focus International was one of the best decisions we have ever made. After detailed consultation with Rebecca and Hank, we decided to have them completely restore our fifty year old acre that had a large driveway being raised with roots, irrigation that no longer worked, fences falling, concrete sidewalks around the entire house coming up with some of it falling in our pool, old shrub roots running all over the place and decks that were rotten in some areas, Our lot has a slope, and very important to us was that the drainage was addressed and made perfect. I knew Rebecca and Hank could do beautiful work from seeing their work online and going to past projects, but working with them on this big job that required so much major work went beyond our expectations. The job was not only a big one but at times required some big changes or adjustments, and through the entire project Rebecca and Hank oversaw the work and easily made the adjustments so that the project went very well taking all the stress of the project off my husband and me. Each contractor who did the work was excellent and on time. At one point we had to replace the worn, exterior plywood siding on our entire house, and an excellent contractor, who we never would have been able to get on our own, was called in by Rebecca to do beautiful new siding and decking. Rebecca, Hank and everyone who worked on the job were very pleasant to work with, and if a question arises now, Rebecca or Hank get back to us immediately. Almost every day a neighbor walks by to tell us how much they like the beautiful flowers and the incredible night lighting with lights designed by Hank hanging from trees. Their guidance from concept to construction was invaluable. A special treat for me is that I have been introduced to drought resistance shrubs and flowers that I adore and never knew existed. The entire result of hardscape and flowers, shrubs, etc. is so beautiful and beyond anything we imagined. **★★★★★ — S-Squared // Architecture + Interiors + Landscape, May 2020** > We have enjoyed working with Rebecca Dye at Design Focus International for many years now. Starting first with a multi family design on a 1 acre parcel near Downtown Los Gatos, and then a series of custom single family Homes, we’ve had consistently positive experiences with DFI. Rebecca is hands on with all her projects but also has a very capable staff. > > Rebecca has a particular expertise in designing bioswales, which are becoming increasingly prevalent due to California mandated drainage requirements. > > We look forward to continued collaboration with DFI in the future! > > Eugene Sakai > Studio S Squared Architecture, Inc. **★★★★★ — HU-200836523, July 2019** > Design Focus created a wonderful backyard for our new home. Rebecca really listened to what we were looking for and created a space we are able to enjoy year round. Rebecca is very knowledgeable about planting material and designed a space that was colorful and beautiful. Her team did a high quality job with the stone work and planting and I would highly recommend Design Focus for your landscape projects. **★★★★★ — Leila Johansson, Nov. 2017** > We are thrilled with the work Design Focus International. We first started working with Rebecca, Hank and their team 6 years ago when they redesigned our backyard and front gardens including grading, drainage, irrigation, planting- the whole lot. Rebecca listens very carefully, understands our likes/dislikes and develops a clear vision for the garden/property that she skillfully translates into the most beautiful, magical garden. Without exception, everyone who comes to our home comments on how beautiful our garden is. > > We were so pleased with the results and, notably, the process of working with them, so it was an easy decision to partner with Rebecca and Hank again this year for a few new projects, including new planting and drainage. Once again, Rebecca understood what we hoped to achieve with this new project and we could not be happier with the results. She is also thoughtful about cost and made every attempt to replant and salvage what we could. What also stands out for us about Rebecca is that she truly cares about your project- even when it's "complete." Over the last few years, Rebecca would call or email us after driving by our home and remind us that it's time to prune our fruit trees. She has proven year after year that she cares, and clearly has a long-term view- valuing the client relationship long-term. Rebecca and Hank are passionate about what they do and top notch at what they do, and it shows in each and every project- as well as each and every interaction we have with them. We could not more highly recommend Design Focus International! **Comment from Design Focus International:** > Thank you Leila. It was a pleasure working with you and Joakim! **★★★★★ — Pauline Ferrito, Sept. 2017** > After our 100+ year old oak fell in our yard, we needed help to create and install a new garden. Rebecca, Hank, and their great crew helped us get just what we wanted. **★★★★★ — christopher\_j\_brown, Aug. 2017** > Rebecca and Hank developed a beautiful design plan for our backyard. Their design plan incorporated and elevated our ideas for a lush and relaxing space for adults that still allowed for play and exploration for our children. The passion and love for their work is evident in every design choice. Not only are Hank and Rebecca exceptional at their profession, they are also wonderful people. **★★★★★ — M T, Jan. 2017** > Rebecca Dye is the best landscape designer I have ever worked with. She has helped to redesign an one-acre property, with multiple gardens and outdoor living spaces to include a fire pit, batting cage, draught tolerant succulents and natives interplanted with roses, hydrangea, peonies, camellia, extensive stone hardscape with outdoor bar and kitchen area.. She also found the perfect containers to go with the traditional home and conservatory.. She is currently working on our 2.5 acre property in Los Altos Hills with multiple outdoor living spaces and gardens. She completely transformed the front driveway area with a native grass that uses less water. Her team successfully moved 2 mature olive trees to a different part of the property, and added fruit trees. Rebecca is a great listener, and has tremendous knowledge and experience with plants, hardscape materials, and ideal applications. She makes great recommendations when asked, and also does a great job incorporating our ideas and vision. It has been a wonderful collaboration. Everyone on their team is professional, and responsive to questions and issues that come up. With the exception of a few situations beyond their control, they have met deadlines and budgets to my satisfaction. I am very pleased with the quality of work and service provided by Design Focus. **★★★★★ — margueritedinno, Jan. 2017** > The Design Focus team is fantastic. Rebecca and Hank really listened to what my desired outcome was for my garden and created a master plan that flowed seamlessly throughout the property. From concept to design to implementation, the entire team brought my project to life and transformed my basic garden into a magical setting. I have called on them numerous times since the completion of the original project for additional work and have enthusiastically referred them to many friends. **★★★★★ — apl88, Dec. 2016** > We enjoyed working with Rebecca and her team so much we had them back for a second big project that integrated perfectly with the first one and the natural setting of our backyard which runs along a year round creek. She is a fountain of creative ideas and we regularly get complements on the beauty and serenity of our yard. Her team does excellent work and we highly recommend them! **★★★★★ — kimberfeece, March 2015** > Wonderful team, great to work with, great design skill, beautiful work. I've referred them several times and will continue to do so. **★★★★★ — Bella Shing, Dec. 2014** > Working with Design Focus is an extraordinary experience. They listened to my ideas and were able to respond with a design that exceeded my expectations. I also learned so much about plants and how design can enhance my experience of a space. They showed me techniques and implemented a design that brings beauty, warmth and more life to our home. I've gained from them information and wisdom that would have taken a lifetime to learn on my own. These are not just fabulous architects, they are truly stewards of the earth beautifying and enlivening all the spaces they touch. I can't recommend them enough! **★★★★★ — wagmore, Dec. 2013** > Thank you Design Focus, I love our landscaping! I appreciated everyone at Design Focus, it is a fabulous team from start to finish! The landscape design is exactly what I had wanted, I really had no idea of plants and I'm not good at design, but I wanted it to be nice to look at and dog friendly. Wow, it is beyond my expectations! I love the plants, Rebecca showed me photos ahead of time, and even talked about the wonderful smell certain ones have at different times of the year, they put in watering systems, and gas line for a grill they assembled and installed, and amazing lighting. I love the brick borders that matches the brick with our house and a refuse enclosure that matches our fence and paint. The fountain they installed is fun. They set it up on a timer along with the lights, which can be brightened or dimmed. Their plan and work included more plants than any other design. Also when I had other companies quote on it, they would change the plan to be less involved and less work, saying that we didn't need this or that. But each plant, each sprinkler, each light, each part of it adds to the quality beauty and ease of use. I love how they took care of everything. They ordered the grill, they made a platform for it, it matches the platform for the fountain. They could have just put the fountain on dirt, but they didn't, they put it on beautiful stone, and made it go with the entire design. The trellis' that Rebecca found are fabulous, we get lots of wonderful comments on them, and they go perfectly with the fountain. They have a way of really putting it all together in an amazing package, from appearance, to smell, to also being dog friendly for us, and low maintenance. Every single day they accomplished so much, so very efficient. I appreciated how thoughtful, considerate, clean and organized it all went. Design Focus is truly a top notch high quality in every detail company, very user friendly. Rebecca will work with you whatever your style or wants are. I was super impressed with her matching our house style and our lifestyle. I highly recommend Design Focus for landscape design and installation! **★★★★★ — Chelsea Court Designs, Jan. 2013** > Design Focus, Int'l Landscape Architecture and Build is one of the finest most talented groups I have worked with in landscape architecture; professionally and personally. Rebecca Dye and her husband Hank Dye are a wonderful husband and wife team. Rebecca designs all of the landscapes with her talented staff and Hank designs the exteror lighting and manages all of the installations. They are a terrific team! > > I have recommended them to several clients; their work is always beautiful and they always please my clients in design and mangament service to installation. I would highly reccommend Design Focus Int'l Landscape Architecture and Build! > > Marie Christine Peterson > Chelsea Court Designs **★★★★★ — roanhorse, Jan. 2013** > Rebecca Dye, landscape architect at Design Focus, designed a beautiful, functional, ecological, and dog friendly front and backyard that wonderfully transformed the look of my home. Her knowledge of every aspect of plant design and her artistic skill was just amazing. I asked for gardens full of color and I have color virtually all year long. Her staff and crew were also excellent. Rebecca was very involved in every step of the project and she was always checking to make sure everything was up to her high standards. The end result was everything I had hoped for and more. ## Selected projects - [This is SF interviews Design Focus](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/this-is-sf-interviews-design-focus-pj-vj~5983141) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 1 - Description: An interview with award-winning landscape architecture firm Design Focus International on how they connect their clients with more joy and relaxation through their design. - [Woodside Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/woodside-estate-pj-vj~94095) - Location: Woodside, CA - Photos: 25 - Description: Kings Mountain Project Description This project involved the restoration of a fifty acre garden from the 1920's. The property had been abandoned for thirty-five years and the old roads were filled with trees. The first step was discovering all that was hidden amongst to French Broom and Acacia. Restoration included pruning and caring for over two thousand oaks. Project responsibilities include site design, planning, grading, drainage, plant material design, selection and placement, boulder place… - [Rose Garden San Jose](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rose-garden-san-jose-pj-vj~93891) - Location: San Jose, CA - Photos: 29 - Description: Rose Garden Project Description The client asked us to design a white garden with french influences which would relate to the architecture of the 1920's home. We designed the entry garden with detailed brick walls and iron gates through which an antique granite path leads visitors to the entry courtyard. The focal of the entry courtyard is a large pond filled with white water lilies and shimmering gold fish. A limestone seat wall edges the pond and provides informal seating. For the center eleme… - [Design Focus International Feature Articles](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/design-focus-international-feature-articles-pj-vj~2292077) - Location: Ben Lomond, CA - Photos: 13 - [Saratoga Contemporary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/saratoga-contemporary-pj-vj~93973) - Location: Saratoga, CA - Photos: 20 - Description: Twadell Project Description This contemporary garden was a challenge because of the steep slopes and frequent elevation changes but elevation became an asset in the design of the vanishing edge pool. The paving of Napa stone was used to create a sleek contemporary look to relate to the architecture of the residence. The glass bisazza pool tiles also added to contemporary design. We painted the arbor a striking orange to play against the sky and climbing wisteria. Likewise the house made use of f… - [Los Gatos Outdoor Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-gatos-outdoor-retreat-pj-vj~328285) - Location: Los Gatos, CA - Photos: 26 - [Blackwell](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/blackwell-pj-vj~94159) - Location: Saratoga, CA - Photos: 30 - [Los Altos Traditional Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-altos-traditional-estate-pj-vj~442387) - Location: Los Altos, CA - Photos: 12 - [Saratoga Traditional](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/saratoga-traditional-pj-vj~136049) - Location: Saratoga, CA - Photos: 47 - [Irvine](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/irvine-pj-vj~104160) - Location: Woodside, CA - Photos: 25 - [Habitat/Bioswales in Urban Residential](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/habitat-bioswales-in-urban-residential-pj-vj~140135) - Location: Fremont, CA - Photos: 14 - [Santa Cruz Mountain Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/santa-cruz-mountain-home-pj-vj~104166) - Location: Ben Lomond, CA - Photos: 25 - [Penny Lane](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/penny-lane-pj-vj~2783226) - Location: Campbell, CA - Photos: 21 - [Los Altos Contemporary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-altos-contemporary-pj-vj~1956663) - Location: Los Altos, CA - Photos: 14 - [Cunningham](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cunningham-pj-vj~140131) - Location: Los Gatos, CA - Photos: 6 - [Garvin](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/garvin-pj-vj~7271684) - Location: Richmond, CA - Photos: 13 - [Los Gatos Urban Contemporary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-gatos-urban-contemporary-pj-vj~6686179) - Location: Los Gatos, CA - Photos: 9 [See all 17 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/design-focus-international-pfvwus-pf~1040328628) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/840782252.m3u8?s=dc8477d70ffbd0ddd83dfa7437028c32762e507e&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **What types of landscape design projects do you specialize in?** We specialize in a diverse range of projects, including commercial, public, and large-scale residential gardens. Our expertise extends to historical renovation, habitat restoration, permaculture, and retreats. We also design custom bocce ball courts, fire pits, water features, edible gardens, and natural swimming pools, focusing on creating joy and improving quality of life. **Do you offer design-only services or full project coordination?** As a Landscape Architecture and Construction firm, we offer both design-only services, such as design consultations and detailed landscape plans, and full project coordination. We manage projects from the initial design process through to completion, working regularly with a wide range of specialty contractors to ensure a seamless execution. **Do you create detailed planting and layout plans?** Absolutely, creating detailed planting and layout plans is a core part of our landscape architecture services. We develop comprehensive landscape plans and construction drawings to ensure every detail of your garden design, from plant selection to hardscape layout, is meticulously planned and executed to bring your vision to life. **Do you design outdoor living spaces such as patios and outdoor kitchens?** Yes, we design a variety of outdoor living spaces to enhance your property. Our services include patio design, deck design, custom fire pits, and comprehensive hardscaping. While outdoor kitchens aren't explicitly listed, our expertise in these areas allows us to create integrated and functional outdoor environments for relaxation and entertainment. **Do you design drought-tolerant or sustainable landscapes?** Yes, sustainability and drought tolerance are central to our design philosophy. We specialize in drought-tolerant landscaping, organic gardens, and permaculture. Our team includes LEED AP certified professionals, and we are members of the US Green Building Council, reflecting our commitment to environmentally responsible and healing designs. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/119879417/list/wish-list) — 7 ideas - [Feature Stories](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/111037954/list/feature-stories) — 25 ideas - [Firepit](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/80382199/list/firepit) — 1 idea - [Gravel and Glass](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/65126917/list/gravel-and-glass) — 5 ideas - [lighting](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/54155994/list/lighting) — 1 idea - [Stuart lounge](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/47793634/list/stuart-lounge) — 17 ideas - [Outdoor living room structure](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/29388747/list/outdoor-living-room-structure) — 9 ideas - [craftsman entry](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/44600956/list/craftsman-entry) — 1 idea - [Hamilton mosaic sculpture](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/34006902/list/hamilton-mosaic-sculpture) — 1 idea - [Hamilton fountain](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/34006793/list/hamilton-fountain) — 1 idea - [Stuart outdoor fire](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/29322361/list/stuart-outdoor-fire) — 14 ideas - [Hamilton brick](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/30922821/list/hamilton-brick) — 2 ideas - [Stuart treehouse](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/30609890/list/stuart-treehouse) — 9 ideas - [Stuart boulders](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/30643116/list/stuart-boulders) — 9 ideas - [Horizontal wood fencing](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/29328797/list/horizontal-wood-fencing) — 32 ideas - [Spa Design](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/25644794/list/spa-design) — 1 idea - [Hamilton-Robson Roof Deck Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/25644671/list/hamilton-robson-roof-deck-ideas) — 9 ideas - [Hamilton-Roof Decks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/25644414/list/hamilton-roof-decks) — 19 ideas [See all 18 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/designfocus) ## Community Q&A **Q: This is breathtakingly beautiful. Can you please tell me...** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you please tell me what the roof material is. Is it stretched polypropylene, and is it custom made or is there a kit you can buy. Thank you so much. A: It was custom made to fit by a canvas company and is a water proof awning type material. **Q: what are the white flowers called?** *(in Photo Questions)* I love the beautiful white flowers and would love to know what they are called. A: They are Iceberg roses. A great repeat bloomer! **Q: What are the trees on either side of the door?** *(in Photo Questions)* They are lovely; I'd love to know what they are. A: They're Camellias! Beautiful for a winter bloom and comes in a variety of colors! **Q: What kind of tiles are those??** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Walnut travertine. **Q: What type of patio paver?** *(in Photo Questions)* Hello. Would you please share what type of paver you used and where you sourced them? Beautiful project! A: Thank you. The hardscape is bluestone in a random ashlar pattern. The stone is from Connecticut. **Q: The pool interior and waterline tile are gorgeous. What are they?** *(in Photo Questions)* Thank you! A: The interior is light blue plaster and the tile is Bizzaza. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-07.*