--- title: "True Scape Design — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/true-scape-design-pfvwus-pf~1041318488 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1041318488.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "True Scape Design" category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/e303a29804136889_0335-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "6410 Phinny Ave N, Seattle, Washington 98103, United States" latitude: 47.6734 longitude: -122.3426 phone: "(206) 701-7714" website: https://truescapedesign.com/ rating: 4.9 review_count: 118 best_of_houzz_awards: 12 followers: 138 last_updated: 2026-09-09 --- # True Scape Design > Seattle's Modern Landscape Architecture Design and Installation Original Houzz profile: [True Scape Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/true-scape-design-pfvwus-pf~1041318488) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers - **Location:** Seattle, WA - **Serves:** Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Shoreline, Bothell, Edmonds, Lynnwood, Mercer Island, Kenmore, Inglewood-Finn Hill, Mountlake Terrace, Lake Forest Park, Woodinville, Newcastle, Eastgate, Clyde Hill, Medina, Beacon Hill, Yarrow Point, Woodway, Beaux Arts Village, Hunts Point, Alki, Ballard, Capitol Hill, Fairmount Park, Fremont, Greenwood, Lake City, Laurelhurst, Leschi, Madison Park, Madrona, Magnolia, Medina, WA, North Beacon Hill, North Seattle, Northgate, Phinney Ridge, Queen Anne, Rainier Valley, Revenna, Sunset Hill, Wallingford, Wedgwood - **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (118 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 12 awards (2016–2025), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Free consultation - Award winning - Responds Quickly ### Business highlights - Best of Houzz winner - Free consultation - Award winning - Responds Quickly At True Scape Design, we turn outdoor dreams into reality. Our immersive 3D-first design process allows you to see every detail of your space before construction begins, giving you confidence and clarity as your project comes to life. We ensure a seamless, stress-free, and inspiring experience from initial ideas to finishing touches. Your outdoor space should feel like an extension of your home—a place to relax, connect, and create lasting memories. Whether envisioning a sleek modern patio, a lush garden retreat, or a multifunctional family haven, our team is dedicated to designing and building something truly extraordinary. Why Choose True Scape Design? \- Over 110 Five-Star Reviews: Trusted by homeowners and developers across the greater Seattle area and beyond for innovation, craftsmanship, and excellence. \- 3D-First Process: Visualize your project in vivid detail with scaled, site-accurate dimensions, collaborate in real-time, and avoid surprises. \- Comprehensive Services: From design to permitting and construction, we manage every detail. \- Tailored to You: Your space, your vision—designed to match your style and lifestyle. Explore our portfolio at truescapedesign.com to see how we transform outdoor spaces. What We Do Landscape Design Our 3D-first process brings your vision to life with stunning detail and precise scaling to your site’s dimensions. We create detailed plans, complete with photo-realistic visuals, providing a clear path to a flawless project. Landscape Architecture We navigate complex permitting and regulatory requirements, including Seattle’s Green Factor and environmentally critical areas. Our licensed landscape architects ensure your space is compliant, functional, and beautiful. Building Services From patios and retaining walls to fire pits and water features, our expert teams bring designs to life with precision and craftsmanship, ensuring every detail is built to last. Let’s Create Your Dream Space Start your transformation today! Contact us for a free consultation to see how our 3D-first approach can bring your ideas to life. Follow us on Instagram to explore our latest projects and get inspired for your own outdoor retreat. ### 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 - 3D Rendering - Project Management - Drafting - Landscape Supplies - Brick Masonry - Concrete Construction - Construction Drawings - Deck Building - Deck Repair - Demolition - Drip Irrigation Installation - Driveway Gate Installation - Excavating - Fence Installation - Gate Installation - Irrigation Repair - Irrigation System Installation - Land Leveling & Grading - Landscape Construction - Masonry - Outdoor Fireplace Construction - Outdoor Lighting Installation - Patio Construction - Paver Installation - Pergola Construction - Planting - Retaining Wall Construction - Rototilling - Site Preparation - Sod Installation - Sprinkler System Installation - Tree Pruning - Trellis Construction ### Areas Served - Seattle - Bellevue - Kirkland - Redmond - Shoreline - Bothell - Edmonds - Lynnwood - Mercer Island - Kenmore - Inglewood-Finn Hill - Mountlake Terrace - Lake Forest Park - Woodinville - Newcastle - Eastgate - Clyde Hill - Medina - Beacon Hill - Yarrow Point - Woodway - Beaux Arts Village - Hunts Point - Alki - Ballard - Capitol Hill - Fairmount Park - Fremont - Greenwood - Lake City - Laurelhurst - Leschi - Madison Park - Madrona - Magnolia - Medina, WA - North Beacon Hill - North Seattle - Northgate - Phinney Ridge - Queen Anne - Rainier Valley - Revenna - Sunset Hill - Wallingford - Wedgwood ### Typical Job Cost $90,000 - 800,000 $90,000 - 800,000 ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | True Scape Design | | Address | 6410 Phinny Ave N, Seattle, Washington 98103, United States | | Phone | (206) 701-7714 | | Website | https://truescapedesign.com/ | | License Number | TRUESSL887PD | | Followers on Houzz | 138 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/TrueScapes - X (Twitter) — https://www.instagram.com/truescapedesign/ - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/pub/joseph-garel/70/1a5/187 - Blog — https://truescapedesign.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [True Scape Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/true-scape-design-pfvwus-pf~1041318488) - **Website:** https://truescapedesign.com/ - **Phone:** (206) 701-7714 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Washington Registered Landscape Architects - Member \| Northwest Association of Environmental Professionals (NWAEP) - **Best of Houzz:** 12 awards (2016–2025), for Design, Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 118 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 48.0 - Value: 48.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Andrew, Dec. 2024** > The team at True Scape has been very helpful in my rather large landscaping project. From the initial meeting with Joe, to the design with Da, to implementation with Ian and the crew, it's been a rather long engagement as we've had to ensure proper scheduling with our home remodel working in parallel. > > The initial assessment and design was great, and we appreciated the renderings to envision the space. We were able to align on a vision pretty quickly with only a few small revisions. Once we got started on the actual landscape construction, we had numerous discussions to ensure the plan was followed and that my concerns were addressed with workarounds and change orders. Even when I hit a snag with other contractors, they stepped in to help rectify the issues. > > One of the only things that I think they could improve on is a bit more communication around timing of certain aspects. It was sometimes a challenge to know what to expect with so many moving parts. That said, I think exact dates are probably tough given the scope of my project as well as the different adjustments we needed. > > Through it all, the foreman (Ian) was super helpful and the rest of the crew worked tirelessly to get the job as close to the original plans as possible. I now have a yard surrounding my home that uses the space much better, and compliments my new renovated home. > > I recommend this team to anyone thinking about a large project. They are definitely up to the challenge! **★★★★ — Wayne, Dec. 2024** > Hired for design plus major landscaping project (including building a deck) for our backyard. Responses were prompt and interactions were professional & pleasant. > Vendor was patient with our questions and worked with us to address questions, concerns, and edits. **★★★★★ — HU-555964776, Dec. 2024** > TrueScape completely transformed our backyard! They captured exactly what we wanted in the design stage, including ideas we didn't even know we wanted until they showed us! > > Ian was great as our field supervisor and adapted well to problems cropping up, like when a tree fell during a storm. > > The only real problem we encountered was that the timeline was much longer than planned. **★★★★★ — Billy Deskin, Dec. 2024** > First time diving into a “large” landscaping project. Although intimidated after interactions with many other companies, the team at Truescape made me feel comfortable and they were willing to educate me on many aspects of my project I was definitely uninformed in. From start to finish, the Truescape design and construction team were awesome. Great and efficient communication throughout. The design process was easy and collaborative, while the construction process was quick and efficient. Super happy with the results and would recommend to anyone for any project! **★★★★★ — Jamie Thomson Pate, Dec. 2024** > Following an awful contractor experience on our bathroom remodel riddled with failed inspections, I knew we had to find someone we could trust to lead our ECA steep slope zone retaining wall replacement. Enter Truescape! From day 1, I appreciated their clear, proactive communication and transparency, and this lasted from design through permitting and construction. Da, Joe, and Ian supported us every step of the way, ultimately getting the new wall installed and approved by the city just in time for the rainy season cutoff. Along with the wall, we put in a new patio and walkway extension which turned out great. Would definitely recommend! **★★★★★ — Ting and Larry, Dec. 2024** > They were very communicative and organized throughout the process, from meeting with the designer, to discussing budgets, to the actual building. We would work with them again! **★★★★★ — HU-566401718, Dec. 2024** > True Scape Design are professional at what they do, I enjoy working with them and would recommend to others! **★★★★★ — Cleave, Dec. 2024** > We are an architect firm, we use True Scape for the landscaping designs. We prefer to use them over other landscaping design companies because they are efficient and have really good quality. They are easy and great to work with. **★★★★★ — Bryan Roth, Dec. 2024** > My family and I have been really impressed and delighted with the design and quality of our home landscaping from True Scape Design. The initial design process went very smoothly with their team helping us quickly create a plan to meet our needs. The initial design presented to us was so consistent with what we had described, but added creative adjustments to make it even better than we could have imagined. Throughout the project, the team has communicated with us, and delivered on the plans effectively and efficiently. We are so happy with the results, and would not hesitate to work with them again. We wholeheartedly recommend True Scape Design to our friends and family. **★★★★★ — Renton Insulation Care, April 2024** > The quality of work is superior. A job extremely well done, and we will happily recommend others. We loved the unique design that you presented to us. The work site was always clean and tidy at the end of the day, **★★★★★ — HU-456714319, Dec. 2023** > Great job by Joe and the crew. Very professional, great design ideas, crew worked efficiently. Back yard looks great. Would definitely choose Truescape again. **★★★★★ — kurtknaub, Dec. 2023** > Our experience with True Scape Design was perfect from beginning to end. Both the design and construction teams were easy to work with and worried (on our behalf) about the little details. An example: They spent an additional 3-4 hours removing a flagstone to move it a few millimeters. I would have never noticed the imperfection. The number of comments we get on how beautiful our backyard looks now is countless. Thank you! ## Selected projects - [Spatitude – Lakewood](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/spatitude-lakewood-pj-vj~7861094) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: Total renovation on a Seattle property with a steep slope ECA. Full permitting was required for the grade changes, hardscapes, and pool. - [Olympic Manor](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/olympic-manor-pj-vj~7573319) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 6 - [Expanse - Edmonds](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/expanse-edmonds-pj-vj~7861735) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - [New Levels - Lynnwood](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/new-levels-lynnwood-pj-vj~7863741) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 6 - [Retrofront](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/retrofront-pj-vj~7532890) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: This renovation used existing concrete retaining walls combined with new steel planters for a modern front look. New concrete steps and paved walkway provide entry across the new synthetic turf lawn. - [Marvel Jaunt - Wedgwood](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/marvel-jaunt-wedgwood-pj-vj~2723972) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 22 - Description: This project's story is on our company webpage. It includes before and after sliders that show where things started, and explains what the clients wanted and how we actualized our shared vision. To read this story, visit truescapedesign.com or follow the direct link below. http://bit.ly/2xU3JnM Feedback & Questions welcomed. - [Green Lake Front Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/green-lake-front-patio-pj-vj~7861114) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - [Enriched - Edmonds](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/enriched-edmonds-pj-vj~1394582) - Location: Edmonds, WA - Photos: 28 - [Major Us - Edmonds](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/major-us-edmonds-pj-vj~7879840) - Location: Edmonds, WA - Photos: 7 - [Diverting Regale - Montlake](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/diverting-regale-montlake-pj-vj~2314640) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 17 - Description: This project, located just above the arboretum in Seattle, wasn’t without it challenges. Working in a liquification and steep slope Environmentally Critical Area (ECA), we designed and installed a complete overhaul of a largely unusable backyard with slopes exceeding 15%. The client had ample alley access and parking options above their lot, but accessing these areas was difficult, especially in fall and winter. We installed easy-to-walk circulation paths across steep slopes to create more socia… - [End to End - Sunset Hill](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/end-to-end-sunset-hill-pj-vj~7863747) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 5 - [Upper Case - Magnolia](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/upper-case-magnolia-pj-vj~7881143) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - [Echo The Curve - Beacon Hill](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/echo-the-curve-beacon-hill-pj-vj~7881118) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - [Big Flat - Seattle](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/big-flat-seattle-pj-vj~7863758) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 4 - [Level One - Kirkland](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/level-one-kirkland-pj-vj~7881136) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - [Triangles - Queen Anne](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/triangles-queen-anne-pj-vj~7861706) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - [Pizza Court -Seattle](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pizza-court-seattle-pj-vj~7881151) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - [View Ridge - Seattle](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/view-ridge-seattle-pj-vj~7861184) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 3 - [Secret Agent](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/secret-agent-pj-vj~6770146) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 22 - [Stereo Sons - Wedgwood](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/stereo-sons-wedgwood-pj-vj~685807) - Location: Seattle, WA - Photos: 7 [See all 30 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/true-scape-design-pfvwus-pf~1041318488) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/1212485229.m3u8?s=913c04a07c156236318f92b8b2c48378e10b7f68&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **What types of landscape design projects do you specialize in?** We specialize in a wide range of residential landscape design projects, from sleek modern patios and lush garden retreats to multifunctional family havens. Our services include comprehensive landscape design, garden design, hardscaping, patio design, pool landscaping, and custom water features. We also handle outdoor lighting, deck design, and drought-tolerant landscapes, ensuring every outdoor dream becomes a reality. **Do you offer design-only services or full project coordination?** We offer both design-only services and full project coordination. Our comprehensive approach means we can manage every detail, from initial design and permitting to construction and the finishing touches. We ensure a seamless, stress-free experience, bringing your vision to life with precision and craftsmanship. **Do you create detailed planting and layout plans?** Yes, we absolutely create detailed planting and layout plans. Our landscape design process involves developing comprehensive plans, complete with photo-realistic visuals, to provide a clear path for your project. We ensure every plant and element is thoughtfully placed for a cohesive and beautiful outdoor space. **Do you design outdoor living spaces such as patios and outdoor kitchens?** Absolutely! Designing outdoor living spaces like patios is a core part of what we do. We specialize in creating sleek modern patios, and our services include hardscaping, custom fire pits, and outdoor fireplace construction. We aim to make your outdoor space a true extension of your home, perfect for relaxing and entertaining. **Do you design drought-tolerant or sustainable landscapes?** Yes, we certainly design drought-tolerant landscapes. We believe in creating beautiful and sustainable outdoor spaces that thrive in our local climate while conserving water. Our designs incorporate appropriate plant selections and efficient irrigation solutions to achieve both aesthetics and environmental responsibility. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Brooke Heyman](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/92024681/list/brooke-heyman) — 15 ideas - [Bathroom Project 2](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/155815835/list/bathroom-project-2) — 11 ideas - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/96525791/list/wish-list) — 5 ideas - [cattio](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/115274548/list/cattio) — 9 ideas - [James](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/111213872/list/james) — 1 idea - [Lighting](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/101511255/list/lighting) — 6 ideas - [Things we think rock](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/52223801/list/things-we-think-rock) — 19 ideas - [Couches](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/91970580/list/couches) — 4 ideas - [casey z](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/61936877/list/casey-z) — 24 ideas - [Jon](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/60834148/list/jon) — 1 idea [See all 10 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/truescapedesign) ## Community Q&A **Q: What are the grasses you installed her? Looks great!** *(in Photo Questions)* A: They are a sweet flag grass. **Q: Great fire pit. Was it custom made or from a vendor? Propane or gas?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: This one is prefab, gas with a push button start. Everything else is custom. **Q: Backyard Landscape in Need of Help!** *(in Design Dilemma)* Hi, We recently renovated our Seattle home and the only space remaining is the backyard. It is currently a weed jungle. The space is 48' wide by 66.5' long. The property slopes up towards the back fence. We would like to build a deck out of the french doors. This deck doesn't need to be large - just big enough for the BBQ grill. In addition to the deck, we would like to have a patio space for eating and then a grassy space for our kids to play. We would like various foliage / plants / trees along the fence. I do not know where to begin. I've attached photos of the backyard from a few vantage points. Any thoughts / insights into what we could do and what plants would work in our area would be great! Thanks in advance! A: A composite deck would work well for the Seattle climate and give good longevity, technology has come a long ways in this regard and there are a number of quality products that would work well and look sharp as well. If you do go the deck route you could just leave the existing brick patio only having to worry about removing enough to install your deck footings (depending on how large you make the deck). Looks like the back tree could use a good pruning and remove some of the lower branches so you have more use underneath, probably a good idea to keep the lawn area more towards the existing patio so that your lawn area if you choose to put one in can get enough light to thrive. You may want to also consider a small retaining wall towards the back and place a nice leveled kids play area with a big toy or other play feature(s) that fits the space. We can certainly help you out with design and/or construction of the space including the deck and fencing if you so desire, feel free to reach out if you feel inclined. Good luck with your project, the outside renovation looks great. **Q: Landscaping** *(in Other)* We are moving into a new home that has 3 yes three electrical raised boxes on our front lawn; these 3 outlets are not in a neat little group but placed on the front corner helter shelter. Can you suggest or have a photo of someone with this situation and the landscape solution for this????? I have attached a photo prior to levelling and grass being done to give you an idea of my situation. Thanking you in advance for your expert advice for this confusing situation. A: There are limited options with what you can do in front of the boxes and some limitations at the back as well. Many times they will place a sticker on the boxes stating landscaping requirements as least that is what they do in our area (especially the biggest one). Best thing to do would be to start with finding out exactly what the requirements are starting with a call to the utility provider. Once you find those out you'll know the parameters of where you can plant, best options for a limited use of space (i.e. a tree taking up a good chunk of real estate) is put in upright trellises with vines planted to grow up them, a short fence would also be an option to take up the least amount of space but still block views and preserve space for other things, although a fence might not be an attractive option or an option that fits the space properly. Little hard to tell without seeing the final grade out or the intended lawn areas but there are options to soften or block the views of these things. Best of luck. **Q: Patio Design Help!** *(in Design Dilemma)* Hi all, Ok, so I've been wanting to have a patio for a few years now, and I finally decided to do it, now, I don't know what to do to get the most for my money in terms of design! The area I am considering is roughly 23'X20' (see picture of the actual area.) We mostly like to lounge, have bonfires, grill, and entertain here and there, I want to do the project in 2 faces ( that I know lol ) first the patio, and then the landscaping around it. I think I'm going to go with the stamped concrete. What do you guys think? good decision? bad decision? But mostly I need/want help with the design. Any help/advice would be greatly appreciate it! Thanks in advance. Mario. A: Stamped concrete would look great but definitely towards the higher end in terms of cost, one thing you may want to consider which gives a consistent surface but adds depth and interest is a mortar set flagstone patio. As compared to a sand set flagstone patio a mortar set patio is more permanent and definitely less maintenance as sand washes away, weathers and requires replacement every year or two. One thing to also keep in mind if you are looking to go with a stamped concrete patio is access, the farther you are from the street and truck access the more the cost will go up for the install, this is true for other patio types as well but definitely true for concrete patios. Pavers are a great choice as well, we do many paver installs and some flagstone patios as well, we focus heavily on modern design so pavers is the better choice over flagstone to achieve the look we strive to provide. We would also suggest providing some kind of screening as well, if you are going to the trouble and cost and use the area quite a bit some screening from the alleyway would aid in the experience of making the space more comforting and intimate. Screening can be achieved in a variety of ways from fencing, to landscaping (mainly trees), also a combination of trellises with plantings trained to adhere to them and provide filtering and directing views into the area once it is finished. **Q: Well, they're beginning to bloom again...** *(in Rose Gallery)* Took these this morning... BABY TALK CHERRIES 'N' CREAM CHOCOLATE SUNDAE CL DONA MARTIN - looks like the thrips like her... ELLE GEISHA GOLDEN UNICORN INDIAN FEMA JULIE NEWMAR MARVELLE A: Wow quite a vibrant collection, they probably smell just as good as they look (well a good majority of them). --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-09.*