--- title: "Room to Grow Designs — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/room-to-grow-designs-pfvwus-pf~129925300 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~129925300.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Room to Grow Designs" category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/e8339c42003d1c66_9574-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "Dupont, Washington 98327, United States" phone: "(253) 993-1376" website: http://roomtogrowdesigns.com rating: 5 review_count: 19 best_of_houzz_awards: 5 followers: 2 last_updated: 2026-09-23 --- # Room to Grow Designs > Thurston County's Highly Talented Outdoor Living Space Experts Original Houzz profile: [Room to Grow Designs](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/room-to-grow-designs-pfvwus-pf~129925300) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers - **Location:** Dupont, WA - **Serves:** Tacoma, Kent, Federal Way, Lakewood, Olympia, Lacey, Parkland, University Place, Fort Lewis, Gig Harbor, Lakebay, DuPont, Fircrest, Steilacoom, Tanglewilde-Thompson Place, Longbranch, North Yelm, Mcchord Afb, McChord Air Force Base, Anderson Island, Roy, Nisqually Indian Community, McKenna, Ketron, East Olympia, Seattle/Bellevue, Univeristy Place - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (19 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 5 awards (2022–2026), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Recommended on Houzz - 25 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Family owned - Offers Custom Work ### Business highlights - Best of Houzz winner - Family owned - Offers Custom Work Hello. We are Room to Grow, a garden design firm serving the Puget Sound area (or anywhere virtually), specializing in enchanting garden rooms where your joy and enjoyment are paramount. Our gardens feed your soul and delight your senses. We'll help you reduce stress, enjoy family time, and find your zen. We offer DIY garden plans, designs via Zoom, coaching, full in-person design services, and small to large project management & contracting. We are open to anything that enhances your life! Please fill out the online request form and we will get right back to you. ### 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 - Organic Gardens - Pond Construction - Edible Gardens - Natural Swimming Pools - Nursery (plant) delivery ### Areas Served - Tacoma - Kent - Federal Way - Lakewood - Olympia - Lacey - Parkland - University Place - Fort Lewis - Gig Harbor - Lakebay - DuPont - Fircrest - Steilacoom - Tanglewilde-Thompson Place - Longbranch - North Yelm - Mcchord Afb - McChord Air Force Base - Anderson Island - Roy - Nisqually Indian Community - McKenna - Ketron - East Olympia - Seattle/Bellevue - Univeristy Place ### Typical Job Cost $500 - 4,500 Pricing, of course, is always the most complicated process when clients and designers get together in the back yard. We have done our best to provide a basic blueprint for costs. Of course, these are general guidelines. We always provide a customized pricing plan before we get too far into the weeds. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Room to Grow Designs | | Address | Dupont, Washington 98327, United States | | Phone | (253) 993-1376 | | Website | http://roomtogrowdesigns.com | | License Number | ROOMGGD785Q3 | | Followers on Houzz | 2 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — facebook.com/roomtogrowdesigns ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Room to Grow Designs](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/room-to-grow-designs-pfvwus-pf~129925300) - **Website:** http://roomtogrowdesigns.com - **Phone:** (253) 993-1376 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - First Place, 4x4 Design Contest, Dallington Pollinator Club. - **Best of Houzz:** 5 awards (2022–2026), for Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 19 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 5.0 - Communication: 5.0 - Value: 5.0 ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Carolyn, Sept. 2021** > If you are familiar with residential developments known for stacking as many homes as possible onto a small parcel of land... this review is for you. > > Downsizing landed us in one of those developments. Located at the bottom of a hill with three homes looking directly onto our patio, we had absolutely no privacy. Ken, our landscape designer from Room to Grow, changed our yard from a rectangle piece of grass into a stunning sanctuary of privacy. > > Ken's resourcefulness proved invaluable as he managed sub-contractors and post-pandemic glitches in availability of materials. He committed to a timeline, and stuck to it. > > By weaving together several gardens, placing strategic screens which provided the necessary focal points, he was able to design gardens with year-round interest, color, movement and texture throughout. It is beautiful! > > Room to Grow has proven to be trustworthy, dependable and creative. I have recommended them to our family and friends. Such a stellar business! **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > Carolyn, you and Dan were dream customers. I loved how we geeked out on the plants!! Thanks so much for the trust!! Ken ### All 19 reviews **★★★★★ — Catholic Charities Foundation, Sept. 2025** > Working with Room to Grow on our recent community garden project has been a great experience! From design, to coordinating city permitting, to execution of the job and care of the space, the Swarner family and their team were professional and their work commendable.They helped transform our neglected parking strip into a place for truly designed for community and tranquility . **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > You were a dream client! I loved our partnership and the final results :-) **★★★★★ — Side Yard Design & Landscaping, Aug. 2025** > We hired Room to Grow for a side yard project in DuPont. We have not had luck successfully designing & planting in this long & narrow space, and needed professional help. The work took less than two days, and it's absolutely perfect. Ken listened to our preferences on budget and level of maintaining this area, and after the installation he walked through the property to describe how best to prune & care for the plants so they will grow & fill the space over the next few years. We could not be happier! **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > Super fun project. Thanks for being an amazing client. The space should bring lots of joy. **★★★★★ — Durand Home, Oct. 2024** > Ken did a great job of listening to our needs and delivered a beautiful design. The job was done earlier than promised and on budget. We love our new landscape. **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > It was a fun project especially considering the research into plants that can handle some salt water. **★★★★★ — Mary Ann, Oct. 2024** > Working with Ken, owner of Room To Grow was a great experience for me. He listened and understood what I wanted and executed my vision perfectly. But if you need ideas, he can also provide detailed design drawings that will illustrate exactly what your final landscape project will look like. He will provide you with a ton of pictures to narrow down what types of plants, yard art, rocks that you love. I highly recommend his work! **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > Mary Ann it was a pleasure to work with you. The collaboration was amazing!! **★★★★★ — HU-280523867, Aug. 2024** > Ken did an incredible job bringing our landscaping to life! We had a blank canvas and didn’t know where to start. Ken took time to walk our space with us and really listened to what we wanted. He sent us over the most beautiful 3D model of his design. He cared about our vision for the space and knew exactly how to make it happen. We wanted an all season, eclectic and densely packed garden. He was knowledgeable about the different plants, what goes together, and the bloom time throughout the year. He is an incredible wealth of information and could talk plants with him all day! Thank you Ken! > Lindsay/Milton **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > Lindsay, prepping you for a successful DIY was a blast. You guys took my ideas and went above and beyond!! **★★★★★ — Jason dePaul, Aug. 2024** > Room to Grow Designs did a phenomenal job designing our dream backyard. Ken and his team transformed a sloped and unusable backyard into our favorite place to spend time. The functionality of the yard has dramatically improved with the addition of a new seating area, a fire pit, and stunning plants. > > We were particularly impressed with Ken’s vision and creativity. He listened to our ideas and incorporated them beautifully into the design. > Nathan J/Gig Harbor **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > Nathan, thanks for letting me be part of the team. I enjoyed working with your contractor to add the artistic vision to a well designed plan!! **★★★★★ — Lauren Hollrah, June 2024** > Ken did the most amazing job. He worked with us from day one and listened to our budget and gave us the front and back yard we love! He’s been so responsive and helpful. He’s very dedicated and dependable. Highly recommend to anyone. **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > It was fun to check back in after a year and see that the garden has grown even more enchanting. **★★★★★ — Mike & Leslie Dobias, May 2024** > We appreciate Ken’s responsiveness before, during and after our project. > We thoroughly enjoy the assortment of plants, bushes and trees chosen by Ken. > Our project was completed this past Fall, so it’s been exciting to see everything bloom/ come to life this Spring. > We highly recommend Room to Grow Designs! **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > You guys were so encouraging and fun to work with!!! **★★★★★ — David Troutt, Nov. 2023** > Room to Grow Designs did a fabulous job of turning our basic random landscaping into something that looks and feels intentional. They worked closely with us to understand what we like in terms of feel and look of our yard, the visuals that we wanted to see and not see from our yard, and then finally the kinds of plants we liked and did not like to design an outdoor space that we absolutely love. From the seashore landscape in our front area to English cottage-like feel in the back area with a patio and fire pit, we love the look and feel of the installation in year one and cannot wait to see it mature over the coming years. We added irrigation, at their suggestion, and that alone has made a huge difference. Ken was tremendous to work with and his professionalism and commitment to a quality finished product made all the difference. There is no doubt in our minds that if we need additional landscaping design and installation, Room to Grow Designs will be our first and only choice. We highly recommend them!! **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > Transforming the parking strip into a beach wonderland is one of the most rewarding experiences of my career!!! **★★★★★ — Barbara Simmons, June 2023** > We wanted everyone to know about our wonderful experience with Ken at Room To Grow landscaping and design. Our back yard was a disaster and needed a makeover. Ken looked it over and knew exactly what to do to pull it all together. We even gained a secret garden. > Ken added boulders, interesting trees and numerous plants some which we had never seen before. We are very happy with the results and highly recommend his expertise and imagination. He is easy and flexible to work with. His pricing is fair. **★★★★★ — Joyce Lavalle Landscape committee, May 2023** > Ken always followed through with his promises. We are an HOA and so it was critical for my partner and I to deliver on what we promised our Board. Ken made that easy by meeting all the dates set out but most of all delivering 4 beautiful gardens that will deliver color results for several years to come. **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > Joye you and Greg were so awesome to work with, allowing me to create 4 distinct gardens that are still cohesive to the entire area. Super fun. I'll say the snow was a challenge, but certainly kept us on our toes during the install haha!! Also, thanks for the book recommendation. **★★★★★ — Jenn Kennedy, Dec. 2022** > Very happy with our decision to go with Ken at Room to Grow Designs. A self-described garden geek, Ken's passion for gardening is matched only by his knowledge base. He moved us along the process from concept to design to implementation with skill, ease and flexibility so we always felt in safe hands. Ken is a guy who thinks with the creativity of a designer, works with the energy of a professional laborer and manages the budget like a businessman. He does what you only wish other contractors would do: shows up when he says he will, maximizes his time on site, and comes in on time and on budget. Our English cottage style garden was Phase I and was constructed in mid-fall and we are eagerly waiting for spring to see what amazing profusion of flowers and colors and textures will be revealed! To help us stay in budget, Ken worked with the general bones of the overgrown landscaped areas we inherited from the previous owners and he repurposed many of the mature, healthy plants that worked with the design—ultimately creating a brand new space. > Looking forward to working with Ken to implement the rest! Highly recommended. > Mark & Jenn Kennedy **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > I had a blast geeking out with you two. What a fun project, and a beautiful space to work. I can't wait to see the full effect in the spring!!!! **★★★★★ — Lynne Lynn, Nov. 2022** > Cannot say enough good things about Room to Grow Designs. They took a very rough piece of property we had just built our home on and turned it in to a serene and usable nature, kid and pet friendly yard. We are so excited to see the landscaping grow and thrive and plan to hire them again in the future for more projects. **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > I so enjoyed working with you. I loved your absolute enjoyment in the fact that we brought so many good bugs and other pollinators to the property through our efforts!!!! **★★★★★ — HU-971474272, Sept. 2022** > Ken was so easy to work with presented a variety of ideas to get a sense of what we liked. Then he provided detail sketches and was willing to make adjustments. When I was overwhelmed with the names of so many plants, he provided images so he knew the types of plants and colors I liked and then put everything together to add color, texture, and variety. I was impressed with how he found a way to repurpose old brick when making a new brick entry path. He used the old brick to outline and create definition for the front lawn. He also spent time explaining the purpose and focus of the different areas. It's a fabulous redesign of our front space, and I always receive positive comments from visitors. **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > Jan and Tony, it was super fun putting your garden together, and I look forward to Phase 2 in the future. Your easy going trust in me was greatly appreciated!!!! **★★★★★ — Amy B, Aug. 2022** > Our property was a blank slate of grass and bark dust. Ken and his team at Room to Grow transformed it into a wonderful place to live. In the backyard, he gave us a lush, dynamic garden providing privacy from neighbors with four season interest. After installing the back, we hired him again for the front yard - a modern, absolutely one-of-a-kind showcase which continues to turn heads. Ken was attentive, and easy going. Even when he had trouble with one of the sub-contractors, he remained professional, taking care of the issue without impacting the budget. I'd recommend Ken and his team to anyone. > Dr. Amy Boyle **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > Thank you Amy. I loved creating both gardens - so different, yet perfect for your site. You were so kind from beginning to end. I look forward to returning twice a year to keep the garden pruned to the design. **★★★★★ — HU-922351778, July 2022** > We moved to the Olympia area in the Fall of 2020. The house we purchased is set on one acre of wooded and open landscaping. The original owner built a stream and pond in the backyard but eventually filled in the water areas with small rocks. We saw great potential in restoring the landscape. > The original patio adjacent to the pond was small and mainly occupied by a jacuzzi which disrupted the views. Several landscapers were invited to provide ideas for changing the entire layout. Ken Swarner of Room To Grow was one of them. Most of the companies were only focused on how much we were willing to spend. Some never bothered to provide quotes. Ken was different. He provided a vision for the entire backyard which included reshaping and restoring the pond area, expanding the patio, installing an outdoor fireplace, building a complete outdoor covered kitchen, and carving out a wooded nature trail. > The result was truly amazing. Everyone coming to our residence is overwhelmed by the grace and beauty of Ken’s vision and creation. > Here are the things which made this very complex project successful > •Working together on the vision > •Working a plan in stages to fit our budget > •Working together in selecting materials > •Working together to adjust the plan as needed as the construction took place > •Fair and reasonable pricing > In our opinion, the result delivered everything we envisioned and more. Our children and grandchildren absolutely love to spend time in our backyard, and it has created a harbinger for birds and butterflies which is a joy to watch. It doesn’t matter whether we are inside the house or out on the patio as the colors and shapes of the flowers, plants and trees radiate throughout and the sound of the water from the wonderful falling stream brings a calming effect. It is a haven of peace and serenity. > For all the reasons above we give Ken Swarner and Room to Grow and exceptional rating. > > John & Debby D. > Olympia **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > John & Debby, it was a pleasure to design and install your garden. I am so glad the garndkids are enjoying the nature trail!!!! **★★★★★ — Aimee Jove, Oct. 2021** > Ken has been a pleasure to work with. He originally told me that he wouldn't rush my project and that he would work on it until the end. Since mine is one that will require several years of ongoing work (due to my own budget), I am very happy to know that he will not pressure me at any step of the way. Our phase 1 has turned out better than I could have expected. Ken listens to what I say and interprets that into plants and landscaping. He knows what I want when I don't. I would not hesitate recommending Ken to anyone I know needing a good garden design. **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > Aimee it has been fun doing your garden as a team ... designer and some DIY. I look forward to Phase Three this fall :-) **★★★★★ — Jason dePaul, Oct. 2021** > Ken showed up on time every time which I really appreciated. I always felt he cared more about staying in budget than I did. He was always mindful of getting the most for my money. He also designed a beautiful garden. **Comment from Room to Grow Designs:** > Jason, your woodland garden is off to the right start. I can't wait to return for phase two. ## Selected projects - [Hood Canal](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hood-canal-pj-vj~7532622) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 21 - Description: This new build on Hood Canal was fun to create. We changed the styles as you move around the house but kept it cohesive with certain plants and materials. All that remains is a large pavilion next to the brick planters to be constructed by the client's friends. - [Cottage Garden on the Montlake Cut](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cottage-garden-on-the-montlake-cut-pj-vj~7656209) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - [Seattle Parking Strip](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/seattle-parking-strip-pj-vj~7726228) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: Catholic Community Services asked us to redesign their large parking strip into a St. Francis Garden - a place where the community to walk, sit and relax under the canopy of trees. - [Lakewood Zen Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lakewood-zen-patio-pj-vj~7430424) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 12 - Description: This Lakewood home was once a big mound of dirt with an old water feature 15 feet out the back door. The clients wanted something zen with an expanded patio. Maintaining the existing patio, we expanded it with a complimentary paver and sitting wall. The client wanted a lot of Asian garden art and fountains. - [Woodland Meets Party Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/woodland-meets-party-patio-pj-vj~6976893) - Location: DuPont, WA - Photos: 20 - Description: This large backyard in DuPont is a big space for families and friends. - [South Seattle Backyard](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/south-seattle-backyard-pj-vj~7710965) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - [Lakewood backyard](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lakewood-backyard-pj-vj~7502719) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 22 - Description: The backyard was flat grass with no other character before we got started. The client asked for a colorful, fun planting scheme with a new patio and matching fire pit. We had fun bringing a certain level of fancifulness and enchantment to the space. It looks complicated but is exactly a low maintenance garden. We were not hired to rehabilitate the grass. - [Gig Harbor Santuary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/gig-harbor-santuary-pj-vj~7672247) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - [Fircrest Front Yard](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fircrest-front-yard-pj-vj~7650287) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - [Outdoor Kitchen on Fox Island](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/outdoor-kitchen-on-fox-island-pj-vj~7524060) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 14 - Description: The client wanted an outdoor kitchen and water feature closer to their bluff overlooking the Puget Sound, plus expand the planting beds (which was late season so check back next year for pictures). We kept the profil of the kitchen low for neighbors and the client ... success. - [Ovation sanctuary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ovation-sanctuary-pj-vj~7644996) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - [Dry Creek Bed in Puyallup](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dry-creek-bed-in-puyallup-pj-vj~7643546) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 8 - [Glass lover in Lacey](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/glass-lover-in-lacey-pj-vj~7642012) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - [Steilacoom Back & Front Makeover](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/steilacoom-back-and-front-makeover-pj-vj~7261926) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 20 - Description: This project gave a home with a great view of the water something even closer to enjoy!! - [Side yard in Steilacoom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/side-yard-in-steilacoom-pj-vj~7566756) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: Fun, quick project in Steilacoom. Client wanted to step down the hill from their front to the back safely. We did a green/red plant motif with strong, deep color in the winter. Check back in 2025 for updates once spring-fall arrive. - [Gig Harbor patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/gig-harbor-patio-pj-vj~7558218) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - [Puget Sound Water View](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/puget-sound-water-view-pj-vj~6828024) - Location: Steilacoom, WA - Photos: 17 - [Lovely Vignettes](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lovely-vignettes-pj-vj~7340850) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 54 - Description: Here is a trip through the many gardens we've recently designed and built with a focus on great plants in all the right places. - [Day Island makeover](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/day-island-makeover-pj-vj~7529957) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - [Layered drama - Fircrest Front & Back](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/layered-drama-fircrest-front-and-back-pj-vj~7378306) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 20 - Description: This Fircrest garden was tired and in need of a facelift. The clients wanted something pretty, robust and layered. We had a great time bringing in lots of plants with strong lines to give structure. [See all 47 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/room-to-grow-designs-pfvwus-pf~129925300) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/1045854106.m3u8?s=844365d844315227baed5a84f043961609cd1e4b&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **What types of landscape design projects do you specialize in?** We specialize in creating enchanting garden rooms that feed your soul and delight your senses. Our focus is on designing spaces that reduce stress, enhance family time, and help you find your zen. We handle everything from garden design to full landscape architecture, ensuring your outdoor space brings you joy. **Do you offer design-only services or full project coordination?** Yes, we offer both! You can choose from DIY garden plans, designs via Zoom, or full in-person design services. Additionally, we provide small to large project management and contracting, ensuring your vision is brought to life seamlessly from concept to completion. **Do you create detailed planting and layout plans?** Absolutely! We create detailed landscape plans, including planting and layout designs, as part of our comprehensive services. Whether you opt for our DIY garden plans, designs via Zoom, or full in-person design services, we ensure every detail is meticulously planned for your enchanting garden room. **Do you design outdoor living spaces such as patios and outdoor kitchens?** Yes, we certainly do! We specialize in designing beautiful outdoor living spaces, including custom patio designs, deck designs, and various hardscaping elements. While outdoor kitchens aren't explicitly listed, our focus on creating 'garden rooms' implies comprehensive outdoor living. **Do you design drought-tolerant or sustainable landscapes?** Yes, we absolutely design drought-tolerant and sustainable landscapes! We offer services specifically for Drought Tolerant Landscaping and Organic Gardens, aligning with our philosophy of creating spaces that feed your soul and delight your senses while being mindful of the environment. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/147068498/list/wish-list) — 4 ideas - [How to Make a Layered Garden](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/153428433/list/how-to-make-a-layered-garden) — 4 ideas [See all 2 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/webuser-630225708) --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-23.*