---
title: "The Design Laboratory — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/the-design-laboratory-pfvwus-pf~1325589740
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1325589740.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "The Design Laboratory"
category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/3a6315b000946134_0730-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "1050 Southern Ave., #8, Tempe, Arizona 85282, United States"
latitude: 33.3917
longitude: -111.9249
phone: "(480) 771-7477"
website: http://www.thedesignlabaz.com
rating: 5
review_count: 7
best_of_houzz_awards: 10
followers: 312
last_updated: 2026-09-26
---

# The Design Laboratory

> Arizona's Custom Landscape Architects & Designers \| 6x Best of Houzz

Original Houzz profile: [The Design Laboratory](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/the-design-laboratory-pfvwus-pf~1325589740)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers
- **Location:** Tempe, AZ
- **Serves:** Phoenix, Ahwatukee, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Tempe, Tempe Junction, Paradise Valley, Guadalupe, Arizona, Phoenix West Valley, The Phoenix Metropolitan, The Southwest
- **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (7 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 10 awards (2015–2025), for Design, Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Houzz Pro Software User
- Star Houzzer
- Houzz Influencer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 50,000 Ideabook Saves
- Eco-friendly
- Award winning
- High-end
- Verified Hires
- Hired on Houzz

### Business highlights

- Eco-friendly
- High-end
- Award winning
- 5 Verified Hires
- 4 Hires on Houzz

Who We Are
The Design Laboratory is an award-winning landscape architecture and design firm based in Tempe, Arizona. We specialize in creating high-end, eco-friendly residential and commercial outdoor spaces throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan area. Led by a Registered Landscape Architect, our firm focuses on modern, functional designs that seamlessly blend with the Southwest climate, transforming ordinary yards into luxurious, drought-tolerant retreats.

What We Do (Core Services)
We offer comprehensive, custom landscape architecture services tailored to modern day life. Our expertise includes:

Landscape & Garden Design: Drought-tolerant landscaping, native desert plant selection, and edible gardens.

Hardscaping & Water Features: Custom fire pits, swimming pool design, deck and patio planning, and outdoor lighting.

Master Planning: 3D rendering, construction drawings, site planning, and project management.

Our Process & Service Areas
We proudly serve Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Paradise Valley, and the broader Southwest region. To accommodate our clients' busy lifestyles, our collaborative design process can be completed entirely online or through traditional in-person meetings. We also provide onsite construction observation to ensure every detail of the design is executed to the highest standards.

Why Choose Us (Credentials & Authority)
With a commitment to creative, original, and client-focused solutions, The Design Laboratory is a trusted authority in Arizona landscape architecture. We are a 6-time Best of Houzz award winner and have been recognized as the Arizona Landscape Architect & Office of the Year by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).

### Services Provided

- Landscape Design
- Garden Design
- Hardscaping
- Landscape Plans
- Patio Design
- Site Planning
- Drought Tolerant Landscaping
- Custom Fire Pits
- Pool Landscaping
- Custom Water Features
- Swimming Pool Design
- Gazebo Design & Construction
- Outdoor Lighting Design
- Deck Design
- 3D Rendering
- Project Management
- Drafting
- Shed Design & Construction
- Edible Gardens
- Artificial Turf
- Construction Drawings
- Landscape Architecture and Planning
- Synthetic Lawn
- Yard Master Planning

### Areas Served

- Phoenix
- Ahwatukee
- Mesa
- Chandler
- Gilbert
- Scottsdale
- Tempe
- Tempe Junction
- Paradise Valley
- Guadalupe
- Arizona
- Phoenix West Valley
- The Phoenix Metropolitan
- The Southwest

### Typical Job Cost

$25,000 - 250,000

$25,000 - $250,000

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | The Design Laboratory |
| Address | 1050 Southern Ave., \#8, Tempe, Arizona 85282, United States |
| Phone | (480) 771-7477 |
| Website | http://www.thedesignlabaz.com |
| License Number | 229969-0 |
| Followers on Houzz | 312 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/thedesignlabaz
- Blog — www.thedesignlabaz.com

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [The Design Laboratory](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/the-design-laboratory-pfvwus-pf~1325589740)
- **Website:** http://www.thedesignlabaz.com
- **Phone:** (480) 771-7477

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- - Registered Landscape Architect in Arizona
- - Arizona Landscape Architect of the Year by the Az Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects
- - Named Educator of the Year (2014) by the Az Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects
- - Office of the Year (2025) by the Az Chapter

- **Best of Houzz:** 10 awards (2015–2025), for Design, 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 — 7 reviews**

*Aspect averages:*
- Work Quality: 5.0
- Communication: 5.0
- Value: 5.0

### Featured Review

**★★★★★ — H B, Oct. 2024**

> We found The Design Laboratory on Houzz. Based on their portfolio and reviews, we were very excited to speak with them. We have a new Shea home in North Peoria with an average sized back yard (63x30) with an existing pool. We hoped to find a firm that could complement the modernish style of our exterior. During our initial call Justin was great about explaining the type/style of work they do to ensure it fit our vision. I appreciated this; he wasn’t just looking for business but instead vetting for clients he could partner with in a shared vison. A great sign from the start.
> Once we decided this was the architect for us, Justin and team came to our home to get a sense of the lot. You could see the wheels turning, they had a lot of suggestions I had never considered. They listened to our thoughts on the space and took all this in. For a little background we had designed and landscaped our own homes before this one. So, it was eye opening to see the depth of knowledge an experienced architect brings. After this visit they provided us with a couple fully developed concepts. One was more visionary, a creative plan what he thought might be fun for the yard, the other held closer to our ideas. This is important to share because this is what you pay for, letting a creative explore their art. It allowed us to see the potential in both plans. Which in turn allowed us to blend the two into our perfect back yard. There were so many things considered I would have never measured, ascetics and function.  A blending of materials, flow, visual appeal. What they designed was simply beautiful. It brought nature into the yard with practicality of use. We felt truly fortunate to have found The Design Laboratory, they captured our hope for our yard and made it real. In fact, the plan didn’t do it justice, the real thing is a magnitude higher than the concept ever was. I would be hard pressed to find a yard like this within our community or even general area that surpasses what we enjoy.
> Ultimately, I would recommend The Design Laboratory without reservation. Justin and his team provided us something unique. Anyone undertaking a large home project will understand how important it is to have a good team to work with, because the project can have unexpected changes. It is here you want a team to guide you in the right direction and help you see what a change will bring, sometimes something even better than planned.

### All 7 reviews

**★★★★★ — Brenna Chu, Jan. 2018**

> Jim and his team designed our backyard and we couldn’t be happier. We are located at the base of a hillside and wanted to maximize the outdoor space and the views. Every step of the design process was a pleasure. Jim was creative, knowledgeable and patient, giving us lots of fresh design ideas to choose from. The result is a backyard that is beautiful, balanced and functional.  It has changed the feel of our whole home. We highly recommend Coffman Studio!

**★★★★★ — kaki oshaughnessy, Dec. 2017**

> After extensive research, I chose Coffman Studio to transform my front and back yards from very boring to exciting areas where I can entertain and enjoy my family. They worked closely with me to create a design that addressed everything I wanted in my dream yard. They created the dining, entertainment and fireplace areas I wanted and made sure I had the appropriate plants that suited my needs. Their attention to detail and professionalism, from the very first day, surpassed all my expectations. Thank you Jim and Justin for your creativity and expertise. I very pleased and happy and absolutely love my yards.

**★★★★★ — Karen Fisher, June 2017**

> We can't stay enough great things about Coffman Studio.  From conceptualizing the landscape design to the finished drawings, we were uniquely impressed with their original designs, attention to detail, and overall desire to make sure the finished product was exactly as envisioned.  We love the landscape design, the flow of the "living areas," the selection of desert plants, and overall presentation when guests enter through the front door.  We asked for an extension of our home with the backyard landscaping and that's exactly what Coffman created for us.  Well done!

**Comment from The Design Laboratory:**

> Thanks Karen! It was a pleasure working with you and your husband on such an great project!

**★★★★★ — Naomi Kaselow, Sept. 2016**

> We chose to work with Coffman Studio based on their portfolio and a phone conversation.  Sometimes you just 'know'.  Coffman Studio met our deadline and budget and produced a spectacular backyard environment.  Their professionalism was carried out from start to finish.  Couldn't be happier with our decision and their design built into reality.  Will absolutely call on Coffman Studio for future projects.  Highest recommendations for this design studio.

**Comment from The Design Laboratory:**

> Thank you so much Naomi, It was great working with you and your family!

**★★★★★ — Michael Fogelquist, March 2016**

> We had Jim and the gang at Coffman Studio do a plan for our front and side yards in Tempe.  We wanted a more modern design but we had some very specific (and maybe a little unique) aspects we wanted to honor in our plan.  Jim and everyone at Coffman Studio couldn’t have been better about the plan while paying special attention to some of our unique requests.  In the end they took us in a direction we would never have considered on our own and the plan turned out absolutely beautiful!  It transformed what I thought was a boring, run-of-the-mill front yard into a beautiful unique space that we couldn’t be prouder of.  It changed the entire look of our house, amazing!  Additionally everyone that helped us was so kind and easy to work with over there, I can honestly say I didn’t have a favorite.  At one point or another we worked with Jim, Justin, Tanner and Scott and they all were great and brought something unique to the discussion.  And on top of that I thought their fees were very reasonable.  They spent way more time than what they billed us for which contributed to the feeling that they personally wanted our yard to look great no matter what.
>
> We just had the plan done and we did most of the work ourselves or hired it out piecemeal but they also can handle the whole project with their bevy of contractors.  Honestly I probably should have just had them handle it all, it would have gotten done much faster and with far less hassle but live and learn I guess.  They gave us a bunch of tips and advice too as we stumbled through doing much of the work ourselves which were like little treasure troves of wisdoms we clung too.
>
> Again, we couldn’t be happier with everything the crew at Coffman Studio's did for us.  My only regret is I wish we had done it sooner!  Thanks Jim and everyone who helped make our yard something I love coming home to every day.

**★★★★★ — asm317, March 2016**

> Coffman Studio has changed our yard into a paradise.  It looks exciting, uses the current landscape and blends in ( we live in the desert)
>
> I can't say enough about the excellent work, professional manner and attention to detail that the studio provided.
>
> Justin and Tanner were exceptional.

## Selected projects

- [Native Outlook](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/native-outlook-pj-vj~7538722)
  - Location: Scottsdale, AZ
  - Photos: 20
  - Description: The Native Outlook home has been beautifully transformed into a desert-native landscape, embracing the natural essence of the Sonoran Desert. The redesign features drought-tolerant plants like saguaros, agaves, and palo verde trees, creating a sustainable, low-maintenance outdoor space. This thoughtful approach reduces water usage while enhancing the home's connection to its surrounding desert environment, offering a tranquil and eco-friendly oasis.
- [Desert Vista](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/desert-vista-pj-vj~7538700)
  - Location: Phoenix, AZ
  - Photos: 15
  - Description: The Desert Vista home has undergone a remarkable transformation, starting with the removal of its pool to create a more eco-friendly, desert-native landscape. In place of the water-heavy feature, a sustainable design now thrives, featuring native plants like palo verdes, agaves, and cacti that blend seamlessly with the desert surroundings. This new landscape not only reduces water usage but also enhances the natural beauty of the property, creating a peaceful and harmonious connection to the Son…
- [Copper Sun Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/copper-sun-residence-pj-vj~7816515)
  - Location: Scottsdale, AZ
  - Photos: 7
  - Description: The Copper Sun Residence represents a comprehensive fusion of modern architectural renovation and ecological landscape design in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. Situated in Phoenix, Arizona, the project responded to a significant architectural overhaul that reoriented the home’s layout by 180 degrees architecture to capture optimal views and natural light. Our design approach was developed in tandem with this structural shift, ensuring the exterior environment perfectly complements the new inte…
- [Desert Fern](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/desert-fern-pj-vj~7874675)
  - Location: Tempe, AZ
  - Photos: 27
  - Description: The Desert Fern project is a full landscape renovation that honors the Sonoran Desert by preserving and expanding native plantings. This redesign introduces modern seating areas and accent features to create a functional outdoor living space that seamlessly blends with the natural desert environment. Completed in 2024, the project transforms the property into a sustainable, everyday retreat rooted in its local surroundings.
- [Air House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/air-house-pj-vj~7816437)
  - Location: Phoenix, AZ
  - Photos: 15
  - Description: Air House is a contemporary desert residence designed to create a seamless relationship between architecture, landscape, and the surrounding Sonoran Desert. The landscape design embraces openness, natural light, and airflow, allowing the outdoor spaces to function as extensions of the home while responding to Arizona's unique climate. The design balances clean architectural forms with a restrained desert planting palette, creating a composition that feels both refined and timeless. Native and dr…
- [The Colony House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-colony-house-pj-vj~286903)
  - Location: Phoenix, AZ
  - Photos: 60
  - Description: Colony House is a thoughtfully crafted residential landscape that blends contemporary design with the warmth and character of the surrounding desert environment. The project was driven by the vision of creating an outdoor living experience that is both functional and visually refined, extending the architecture into the landscape through a cohesive and intentional design language. The landscape is organized around a series of interconnected outdoor spaces that support everyday living, entertaini…
- [Cattle House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cattle-house-pj-vj~4946753)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 9
  - Description: Cattle House transforms a challenging residential site into a refined desert landscape that celebrates the connection between architecture, nature, and outdoor living. Drawing inspiration from the character of the Southwest, the design creates a cohesive environment where materiality, planting, and topography work together to establish a timeless sense of place. The existing site presented opportunities to reshape the landscape through thoughtful grading and a series of integrated garden spaces.…
- [Midcentury Vista](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/midcentury-vista-pj-vj~4947457)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 12
  - Description: Midcentury Vista is a contemporary interpretation of desert landscape design that celebrates the timeless connection between mid-century architecture and the Arizona environment. The project was guided by a desire to preserve the simplicity and character of the home's architectural style while creating an outdoor environment that feels natural, functional, and connected to the surrounding desert. The landscape design embraces the principles of mid-century modernism through a careful balance of c…
- [Lite House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lite-house-pj-vj~4946986)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 9
  - Description: Lite House is a modern desert landscape designed to create a seamless connection between architecture, outdoor living, and the surrounding Arizona environment. The project embraces a minimalist design approach, using a refined palette of materials and plant selections to create an outdoor experience that feels both intentional and naturally integrated with its desert setting. The landscape extends the home's living spaces beyond the interior through a series of thoughtfully designed outdoor room…
- [South Mountain House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/south-mountain-house-pj-vj~3115431)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 6
  - Description: South Mountain House is a desert residential landscape that celebrates the connection between architecture and the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Inspired by the surrounding mountain landscape, the design creates a refined outdoor environment that feels timeless, intentional, and deeply connected to its sense of place. The landscape was thoughtfully designed to extend the home's living spaces into the outdoors, creating a series of functional spaces for gathering, relaxation, and connecti…
- [Coffman Studio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/coffman-studio-pj-vj~286925)
  - Location: Tempe, AZ
  - Photos: 38
  - Description: Coffman Studio represents a thoughtful approach to residential landscape architecture, transforming everyday outdoor spaces into immersive environments that extend the experience of the home. The project was guided by a desire to create a landscape that balances functionality, craftsmanship, and a strong connection between people and place. The design establishes a series of outdoor living spaces that encourage gathering, relaxation, and connection with the surrounding environment. Carefully con…
- [The Pond House 2017](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-pond-house-2017-pj-vj~2357808)
  - Location: Cave Creek, AZ
  - Photos: 12
  - Description: We recently got a chance to visit one of our past projects and give the property a slight refresh and managed to snap a few photos in the process!
- [The Pond House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-pond-house-pj-vj~295050)
  - Location: Cave Creek, AZ
  - Photos: 12
  - Description: AzASLA Honor Award in Residential Design - 2008
- [The Windsor House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-windsor-house-pj-vj~592586)
  - Location: Phoenix, AZ
  - Photos: 9
- [The Windstone Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-windstone-residence-pj-vj~592660)
  - Location: Phoenix, AZ
  - Photos: 14
- [The 35 House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-35-house-pj-vj~295038)
  - Location: Phoenix, AZ
  - Photos: 8

[See all 16 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/the-design-laboratory-pfvwus-pf~1325589740)

## Video

- [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/1021896334.m3u8?s=4668fabdcdc45b4a9f2036ee1f9146190240360c&oauth2_token_id=1384357804)

## Frequently Asked Questions

**What types of landscape design projects do you specialize in?**
We specialize in a wide range of landscape design projects, from individual residential homes, patio homes, and estates to larger developments and commercial spaces. Our focus is on creating high-end, eco-friendly, and modern outdoor environments that blend beauty, functionality, and resilience, especially suited for the Southwest climate.

**Do you offer design-only services or full project coordination?**
We offer comprehensive design services, from initial concepts and detailed construction drawings to master planning. Additionally, we provide project management and onsite construction observation to ensure your design is executed to the highest standards, offering support throughout the entire process.

**Do you create detailed planting and layout plans?**
Yes, creating detailed planting and layout plans is a core part of our service. We provide comprehensive construction drawings, site planning, and specific garden designs, including drought-tolerant landscaping, native desert plant selection, and edible gardens, to ensure every detail of your outdoor space is meticulously planned.

**Do you design outdoor living spaces such as patios and outdoor kitchens?**
Absolutely! Designing exceptional outdoor living spaces is one of our specialties. We create custom patios, decks, and incorporate features like fire pits and outdoor lighting. Our goal is to transform your yard into a luxurious, functional retreat where you can relax and entertain.

**Do you design drought-tolerant or sustainable landscapes?**
Yes, sustainability and drought-tolerance are at the core of our design philosophy. We specialize in creating eco-friendly landscapes, utilizing native desert plant selection and integrating ecological principles to craft environments that are beautiful, functional, and resilient, especially for the Southwest climate.

*FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.*

## Ideabooks

- [Ianello Sr](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/149176321/list/ianello-sr) — 35 ideas
- [JL](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/113489189/list/jl) — 2 ideas
- [Coffman Studio's Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/56862286/list/coffman-studio-s-ideas) — 21 ideas
- [Tucson Townhouse](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/111682772/list/tucson-townhouse) — 4 ideas
- [McCormick](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/107030709/list/mccormick) — 6 ideas
- [Lincoln’s Hills](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/95362378/list/lincoln-s-hills) — 1 idea
- [Cadillo Lighting](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/88720952/list/cadillo-lighting) — 3 ideas
- [Donnelly/hughes](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/87190057/list/donnelly-hughes) — 1 idea
- [jimcoffman's ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/5197795/list/jimcoffman-s-ideas) — 216 ideas
- [Faib](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/79656102/list/faib) — 1 idea
- [SD kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/71158862/list/sd-kitchen) — 15 ideas
- [Bird](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/58670972/list/bird) — 7 ideas
- [Biswas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/56225759/list/biswas) — 4 ideas
- [Story](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/52042078/list/story) — 17 ideas
- [Chu](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/50627872/list/chu) — 12 ideas
- [Wallace](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/50628125/list/wallace) — 1 idea
- [bathroom](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/50211373/list/bathroom) — 18 ideas
- [kirgan/thomas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/46492853/list/kirgan-thomas) — 2 ideas
- [dreyer](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/32271750/list/dreyer) — 1 idea
- [Hacienda](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/31514722/list/hacienda) — 8 ideas

[See all 27 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/thedesignlabaz)

## Community Q&A

**Q: trellis** *(in Photo Questions)*

what is the trellis structure made of? and what is the finish?

A: The Structure is made of 4" tubular steel with metal hat channels for the trellis portion on the top, a common material used in metal framing.

**Q: Love the material used for the raised bed and boxes!** *(in Photo Questions)*

Can you tell me what it is?  Thank you.

A: 1/8" Plate steel

**Q: Love the planter boxes - where did you get them?  Material? Thx!** *(in Photo Questions)*

A: We custom build them to fit every project. Most options online are not great as far as standing up to water over time. They are made from 1/4 plate steel, if you’re in a wetter climate than Phoenix, Arizona or using plants other than cactus they should be made from corten steel

**Q: what are the yellow flowers in background?** *(in Photo Questions)*

A: Angelita Daisy.  Hymenoxys Acaulis. Perennial. Blooms profusely in the spring in Phoenix then just moderately the remainder of the year.  We have it on drip irrigation.  Individual plant peters out after a couple of years but reseeds itself. Finches love the seed heads!

**Q: Where did you get the bench?** *(in Photo Questions)*

A: It was a custom made Bench by a local fabricator in Phoenix, AZ

**Q: What is this plant** *(in Photo Questions)*

A: Euphorbia antisyphilitica or Candelilla Plant. great plant!

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-26.*