--- title: "BLACKHAūS Design — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/blackhaus-design-pfvwus-pf~1829019541 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1829019541.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "BLACKHAūS Design" category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/5103daff019bc101_6474-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "Scottsdale, Arizona 85260, United States" latitude: 33.6013 longitude: -111.8867 phone: "(602) 214-9216" website: http://www.blackhausdesign.com rating: 5 review_count: 24 best_of_houzz_awards: 5 followers: 19 last_updated: 2026-11-09 --- # BLACKHAūS Design Original Houzz profile: [BLACKHAūS Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/blackhaus-design-pfvwus-pf~1829019541) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers - **Location:** Scottsdale, AZ - **Serves:** Phoenix, Ahwatukee, Chandler, Glendale, Scottsdale, Peoria, Tempe, Tempe Junction, Paradise Valley, Laveen, Guadalupe - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (24 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 5 awards (2019–2022), for Service, Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves We are dedicated to our Client's inspiration and the creation of unique exterior spaces. Our design solutions incorporate clean lines, simple patterns, and natural materials that compliment both architecture and environment. BLACKHAūS Design, LLC is owned and operated by Rck Schwarz and is a Site Design and Landscape Architecture firm in Phoenix, Arizona (not a Contractor). We specialize in residential and commercial site design, resort planning, technical drafting / detailing, plan view graphics, and installation management. Our professional commitment centers on the long-term viability and sustainability of our design solutions. Personal integrity, tireless work ethic, and demonstrated Client service reinforces our pledge to quality Site Design and Landscape Architecture services. Rick Schwarz (Owner and Primary Designer): Graduating from ASU with a Bachelor of Science degree in Landscape Architecture and a minor degree in Urban Planning, Rick has continued his design exposure with post-graduate courses and field studies on urban plaza design and environmental remediation in Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. Rick's extensive project experience includes working for four years under the design direction of notable industry leaders Christine Ten Eyck and Kristina Floor, followed by an eight year senior design associate position at Greey \| Pickett. From 2010 to 2013, Rick was a managing partner at Suite Design Group before launching BLACKHAūS Design, LLC. Rick’s professional experience reflects a history of conducting task-explicit, creatively conceived, and detail-oriented stewardship of projects throughout the United States. (Arizona, California, Nevada, Washington, Virginia, Florida). ### 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 - Project Management - Custom Bocce Ball Courts - Site Design ### Areas Served - Phoenix - Ahwatukee - Chandler - Glendale - Scottsdale - Peoria - Tempe - Tempe Junction - Paradise Valley - Laveen - Guadalupe ### Typical Job Cost $30,000 - 1 million Our mission is to create "one-of-a-kind" exterior spaces that complement the Client's vision and budget. WE ARE NOT A CONTRACTOR. However our office can facilitate construction services at the Client's request. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | BLACKHAūS Design | | Address | Scottsdale, Arizona 85260, United States | | Phone | (602) 214-9216 | | Website | http://www.blackhausdesign.com | | License Number | ACC L18450095 | | Followers on Houzz | 19 | ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [BLACKHAūS Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/blackhaus-design-pfvwus-pf~1829019541) - **Website:** http://www.blackhausdesign.com - **Phone:** (602) 214-9216 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - NAHB - Best Active Adult Community, Province, 2006 - NAHB - Best Clubhouse of the Year 55+ Housing, The Polo Club 2017 - **Best of Houzz:** 5 awards (2019–2022), for Service, Design. **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 — 24 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 5.0 - Communication: 5.0 - Value: 5.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — User, April 2021** > As promised, here are photos. I must say, the transformation of our yard has been amazing and photos don't do it justice. I never opened the blinds to my backyard before and I open them every morning, now. Absolutely gorgeous. I have to give proper credit to my landscape company here in Phoenix, AZ, KOs Landscaping (http://www.koslawn.com/), who did an equally impressive job implementing Rick's design. I couldn't be happier! **Comment from BLACKHAūS Design:** > How exciting! It will be fantastic to see the plant material in a year or so after it has had a chance to fill-in a bit. Watching the hardscape and plant material start to really come together is always fun to see. The installation turned out GREAT! Thanks for the photo updates!! **★★★★★ — Tiffany N, Dec. 2020** > Let me start this review by saying I am extremely particular about nearly everything coupled with the fact that I have very high expectations. After much research, I chose and interviewed 3 different landscape architects to completely redo my front and back yards. All very skilled and competent, registered contractors, great reviews, beautiful online pics, etc. > > Given his design aesthetic, Rick's designs were a standout from the start. Rick's work ethic, brilliance and creativity, and responsiveness have continued to make him a standout. I am very happy I chose his services. The design for our yard is creative, beautiful, peaceful, and gorgeous. Exactly what I wanted and more. > > Rick responded to \*each\* of my 74 emails throughout the design process as I asked questions or responded to his. Rick continues to be a standout in communication. > > Because Rick is so quick to respond and brilliant, the design process was complete in under 4 weeks. Since Rick is not in the state I live in and I'm detail oriented, that is impressive. > > Rick has long time ties to businesses in my area and has been invaluable. We are implementing several of his creative visions and the people he works with are reasonably priced, of excellent quality, and have been great to work with, too. > > My landscaper is now in the process of implementing Rick's design in my front and back yards. Rick has been available to clarify his questions and even provide detailed drawings. > > I will upload before and after pics! **Comment from BLACKHAūS Design:** > WOW!!! Thank you so much Tiffany! You have been a true pleasure to work with and your understanding of the design process has been excellent!! Even after the installation is complete, you know you can always contact me should you have any questions about the project. Thanks again for your kind words and I look forward to seeing photos of the finished product! > Regards, **★★★★★ — Lisa Cohen, Dec. 2019** > My husband and I want to give BlackHAus Design a glowing review! Rick was on point from the beginning. Somehow, Rick had hope for the overgrown, neglected, and uninspiring landscape of our newly purchased home. We communicated by text, email, and phone. Rick was ALWAYS wonderfully prompt. > Rick worked within our budget, gave us advice about how to maximize our budget, let us know if and when our idea/vision was creeping close to our budget ceiling. > Rick's vision for the whole picture (end result) is exactly what we hoped for. In addition, he recommended ideas (water features, screen sculptures, trellis, decorative pots...) that opened our creative horizons (\*still in the budget). > Rick was excited with us, and he genuinely welcomed us as we moved from Alabama to Arizona. As non-natives, he really enjoyed teaching us the basics about plants, irrigation, sun exposure, and soil. If I had a midnight question about a plant, sent an email to Rick at 3 am, I could count on a response by noon that same day. > Every document that Rick prepared for us was clear and concise. Communication about changes and suggestions to design was efficient and timely. Our HOA had strict rules and laws. Rick accommodated everything specified by our HOA. > Of course, we will post before and after photos. Presently, we are still getting bids on the beautiful project. **Comment from BLACKHAūS Design:** > Lisa - You and Jim are AMAZING Clients!! Finding the right mix of design aesthetic, Client collaboration, and budget-oriented solutions isn't always easy, but when it works, IT WORKS!! Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to work with you on your outdoor space! Enjoy the AZ outdoor lifestyle!!! > Regards, **★★★★★ — edwardwesterfield, Oct. 2019** > We interviewed several architects and Rick stood out, with his personable approach, his ability to listen, and most importantly, his courage to guide his clients to good decisions. We gave Rick the ultimate challenge: take a weed infested back yard, of limited area, a 25 year old pool, and turn it into an outdoor living space that you would expect in a 5 star resort, > > The creative process went through 4 weeks of iterations. We trusted Rick’s vision and he trusted our needs. Rick then helped us with the contract bids, and was intimately involved with the construction process. > > We now have a backyard living room that is second to nobody. I’ll let Rick show you the photos. We now spend almost every evening outside, cooking, eating, watching video and sports, lounging in the pool or spa, and socializing in our space, it’s the envy of our neighborhood and social circle. > > Rick has vision and makes good choices. He doesn’t waste money. Every choice and decision was made with the eye to add value to the property. > > If you are in Phoenix, have Rick call us for a personal tour and decide for yourself. > > I think we got our money’s worth. **Comment from BLACKHAūS Design:** > Thanks Ed and Marissa!! Give yourselves some credit as you had some pretty fantastic feedback and gave clear direction!! I think our collaboration was what made the project so special! I am looking forward to the front yard installation and sharing that bottle of wine with you by the new fire feature!! You two have been a joy to work with and I am looking forward to my next site visit. Regards, Rick **★★★★★ — Katie Mayer, April 2019** > Rick is one of the rare true professionals I've ever experienced in the construction industry. From the very beginning to completion of his plans, he communicates with you every step of the way. In our design, he really captured our vision and brought to life ideas we could never have imagined on his own. He is a gifted landscape architect, a great communicator and just a pleasure to work with. As well, he has wonderful ethics and integrity. I wish everyone I worked with on projects could be like Rick. I've already recommended him to another person looking for someone! **Comment from BLACKHAūS Design:** > LOVE IT!! Thanks Katie!! You and Jared made the process easy by giving me fantastic feedback and quick responses every step of the way!! When you get the Contractor squared away, let me know and I will meet with him to go over the plans and make sure that we are on track and on budget! Regards, Rick **★★★★★ — kenneth muller, Feb. 2019** > Blackhous Design and Rick are great to work with. > Rick is very knowledgable about the newer water saving and heat resistant trees, shrubs, and plants for our Arizona climate. Rick is very accommodating and listens to what your desires are and implements the design to meet your needs. works well in explaining to large groups like HOA's. > I highly recommend Blackhous and Rick for all your landscape design requirements **Comment from BLACKHAūS Design:** > I appreciate the kind words, Ken! Hopefully one day soon we can work together again to get the Phoenician East landscape into "ship-shape"! **★★★★★ — Crystal Van Dyke, Dec. 2018** > Rick exceeded our expectations on the design of our front yard remodel. He did a great job of understanding our goals, was very responsive, timely and completed a thorough plan that detailed every aspect; we love it & can't wait to implement. We appreciate his work & would highly recommend. **Comment from BLACKHAūS Design:** > That was a fun little project! Thanks for giving me the opportunity to help you through the design process!! I look forward to seeing the finished product. Please let me know how it all turns out and don't hesitate to call me if you have any questions. Regards, Rick. **★★★★★ — Mike Little, Dec. 2018** > Rick was beyond helpful right from the beginning. He took our ideas and made them better. Rick's help, even over the drawings, was the feedback on ALL of our questions and making sure our ideas came into reality. Thank you Rick! **Comment from BLACKHAūS Design:** > Thanks Joanna! I love working with Clients who have a vision, but just need a little help putting it all together. **★★★★★ — User, Oct. 2018** > We could not be happier with the work that Rick performed for us. > > We have a relatively small back yard that previously was just hardscape: stones and some concrete. It was hot, it was plain to look at and it was monochromatic. We have children, so we wanted a backyard that would be inviting to them. > > Despite the relatively small scale of our project, Rick took to it with gusto, putting into it the time and creativity I'm sure he provides to his much larger (and wealthier) clients. He designed a beautiful oasis for us, always mindful of our budget, and took it upon himself to make sure it was executed to our satisfaction. He was also a pleasure to get to chat with and bounce ideas off of. > > I can recommend Rick without hesitation. If you are fortunate enough to be able to spend a little time with a professional designer thinking about your needs and hearing his or her ideas, you will be glad you did. If Rick is that professional, you'll be thrilled. **Comment from BLACKHAūS Design:** > Thanks Bret! Design fundamentals remain the same no matter the size of the project. And I am thrilled that you are happy with the end result!! As your family grows and your needs start to "morph", let me know and we can can work on some alternatives. Thanks for the opportunity!!!!! **★★★★★ — John Acker, Oct. 2018** > Look no further than Rick at Blackhaus Design. Besides personally earning my respect with his timeliness and sincerity, Rick has a drive and desire to bring an agreed upon vision to life that comes clearly from a place of passion. What I've learned after a year-long remodel project is that it is important to work with a professional who is knowledgable, who will do the right thing and who cares about their work- it helps if you like working with them too- Rick checks all these boxes and then some. I am extremely appreciative of his vision, for the considerations behind his design suggestions and his willingness to go above and beyond listening to customer needs and delivering results. We will be using Blackhaus Design for all our future landscape design needs. **Comment from BLACKHAūS Design:** > Hey John, > Thank you, thank you! The collaborative effort to "check" all of the design boxes and give you a concept plan that worked with the architecture and unique location was an amazing team effort!! Thanks for giving me the design freedom to explore some unique concepts that will truly make your project "one-of-a-kind"! I will do everything I can to help you through the process and get-r-done! You have been fantastic! **★★★★★ — Noah Knauf, Sept. 2018** > Rick is an exceptional landscape architect and among the best design professionals I have ever engaged. His creative vision is best-in-class. Rick took a dated multi-acre property in the hills of Cave Creek and transformed it into a resort-caliber property. Most importantly, he did it without ripping out everything and starting over. He knew just the right places to improve, while incorporating much of the existing grade/hardscape/vegetation. The result was a transformative outcome that was also budget-friendly. Throughout the project, Rick was responsive, respectful of our feedback, and a joy to work with. I would not hesitate to engage Rick again on a future project. **Comment from BLACKHAūS Design:** > Wow Noah! Thank you!! GREAT projects are reflective of a fantastic relationship between Client and designer -- which we had in spades! I truly feel that the project would not have turned out as nice as it did without your thoughtful feedback. Thanks for allowing me the freedom to design and collaborate on your "desert wonder land". Cheers!! **★★★★★ — Pete Christopher, Sept. 2018** > Rick is the ultimate professional! his ideas are innovative and finished product exceeds all expectations. He is very conscious of keeping the look of projects as if they are a natural part of the surroundings. I would recommend Black Haus Designs to anyone who wants a pristine and beautiful result in their project ! **Comment from BLACKHAūS Design:** > Thanks Pete! You guys have been inspirational!! Your feedback, enthusiasm, and patience for living in a "construction zone" has been off-the-charts. Keep me posted on how the design "ages" over time -- I am confident it will get better with age!! Regards, Rick ## Selected projects - [Paradise Valley, AZ](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/paradise-valley-az-pj-vj~2535099) - Location: Paradise Valley, AZ - Photos: 5 - Description: A private residence in Paradise Valley, AZ with dramatic views of Camelback Mountain. Design elements include: a) fire feature b) seating area c) pool and hot tub d) hardscape layout e) xeriscape plant material f) material and finish specifications - [Cave Creek Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cave-creek-remodel-pj-vj~4939401) - Location: Cave Creek, AZ - Photos: 19 - Description: The Clients purchased a 1980's era home (typical Southwestern trac home style) located on amazing desert acreage in Cave Creek, AZ. They wanted to create a "get-away" resort with a modern “Hacienda” twist. The site design (hardscape, planting, lighting) and home’s exterior features (paint color, stucco finish, windows / doors, light fixtures) were re-imagined to create the final product. - [TPC Site Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tpc-site-design-pj-vj~5377562) - Location: Palm Springs, CA - Photos: 13 - Description: The Trilogy Clubhouse at "The Polo Club" is a resort community center in Indio, California which forms the centerpiece for 2,000 single-family homes. As with any project, once you understand the program and relationship between "proportion" and "proximity", the design philosophies can be scaled to fit any size project. - [SoCal Model 5](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/socal-model-5-pj-vj~3081125) - Location: Palm Springs, CA - Photos: 3 - Description: "Trilogy" by Shea Homes @ The Polo Club. In indio, CA Design elements include: a) sunken seating area b) masonry seat wall w/ cast-in-place concrete cap c) outdoor kitchen / BBQ / concrete counter top d) hardscape layout e) specification of materials and finishes f) linear pool and integrated spa - [SoCal Model 4](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/socal-model-4-pj-vj~2535150) - Location: Palm Springs, CA - Photos: 9 - Description: "Trilogy" by Shea Homes @ The Polo Club. In Indio, CA Design elements include: a) side yard path to "doggie daycare" area b) custom screen trellis c) masonry seat wall w/ cast-in-place concrete cap d) xeriscape plant material e) "shade sail" structure e) specification of materials and finishes f) cantilevered fire feature g) raised steel planter h) polished granite water feature i) splash pool and adjacent hot tub - [Piestewa Peak Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/piestewa-peak-residence-pj-vj~3106829) - Location: Phoenix, AZ - Photos: 3 - Description: This "Biltmore Estates" residence is located at the edge of the "Piestewa Peak" preserve In Phoenix, AZ. The Owners remodeled the existing home to create a more contemporary aesthetic. The primary landscape element is a cantilevered steel planter that extends toward the front entry to help visually identify the front doors. The Owners also wanted plant material to help soften the angular look of the home while still conforming to HOA guidelines. The narrow back yard and patio areas were transfor… - [SoCal Model 3](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/socal-model-3-pj-vj~2535140) - Location: Palm Springs, CA - Photos: 4 - Description: "Trilogy" by Shea Homes @ The Polo Club. In Indio, CA Design elements include: a) sunken seating area w/ tear drop fire feature b) masonry seat wall w/ cast-in-place concrete cap c) basalt stone water feature d) hardscape layout e) specification of materials and finishes - [SoCal Model 1](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/socal-model-1-pj-vj~2535111) - Location: Palm Springs, CA - Photos: 7 - Description: "Trilogy" by Shea Homes @ The Polo Club. In Indio, CA Design elements include: a) splash pool b) raised hot tub c) sunken seating area d) steel "key hole" fire feature e) xeriscape plant material f) sail shade structure g) specification of materials and finishes - [NoCal Model Home Gallery](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nocal-model-home-gallery-pj-vj~2535161) - Location: Brentwood, CA - Photos: 11 - Description: "Trilogy" by Shea Homes @ The Vineyards. In Brentwood, CA Site design compliments "Contemporary Italian" theme to match Interior Design. Design elements include: a) splash pool b) custom screen trellis c) steel fire feature d) hardscape layout e) xeriscape plant material f) specification of materials and finishes - [Montelucia](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/montelucia-pj-vj~3083720) - Location: Paradise Valley, AZ - Photos: 11 - Description: A resort in Paradise Valley, at the base of Camelback Mountain. Rick worked on the installation phase of the project for over two (2) years. Selecting finishes, revising and re-designing elements to stay within project budget, and working closely with the architect (A+P Architects) and the Real Estate Development Firm (Tynan Group). All aspects of the site design from pools, to courtyards, to plant material were included under Rick's scope of work. - [Arcadia Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/arcadia-residence-pj-vj~3077309) - Location: Phoenix, AZ - Photos: 4 - Description: Located in the "Arcadia" Scottsdale AZ district, this private residence has dramatic views of Camelback Mountain with a pool and pool house in the backyard as focal elements. Design elements include: a) multiple seating area b) pool and integral hot tub c) hardscape layout d) transitional plant material e) material and finish specifications f) pool house - [Rio Verde Desert Contemporary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rio-verde-desert-contemporary-pj-vj~2535706) - Location: Rio Verde, AZ - Photos: 1 - Description: The Client wanted a hardscape and plant material design to match the steel and masonry vernacular of the home. This was a DIY project for the Client who was adept at welding and general hardscape construction. In Fountain Hills, CA Design elements include: a) cantilevered steel planters b) steel "patch" gates and trellis accents c) xeriscape plant material d) hardscape layout - [SoCal Model 2](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/socal-model-2-pj-vj~2535125) - Location: Palm Springs, CA - Photos: 6 - Description: "Trilogy" by Shea Homes @ The Polo Club. In Indio, CA Design elements include: a) raised planter with water feature b) indoor-outdoor seating area c) xeriscape plant material d) specification of materials and finishes e) custom vertical pot trellis - [Central Phoenix Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/central-phoenix-remodel-pj-vj~3075687) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - Description: An historic, red brick home in Central Phoenix, where the Clients wanted to increase the indoor / outdoor living space while maintaining a design connection between the main house and the new patio installation. Design elements include: a) fire feature b) seating area c) hardscape layout d) transitional plant material e) material and finish specifications [See all 14 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/blackhaus-design-pfvwus-pf~1829019541) ## Ideabooks - [Pools](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8468864/list/pools) — 53 ideas - [Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8470032/list/ideas) — 123 ideas - [Steel](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8470752/list/steel) — 47 ideas - [Water](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8470254/list/water) — 69 ideas - [Trellis](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8470639/list/trellis) — 33 ideas - [Shade](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8470962/list/shade) — 6 ideas - [Fire](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8470456/list/fire) — 63 ideas - [Boardwalk](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8469319/list/boardwalk) — 25 ideas [See all 8 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/blackhausdesign) --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-11-09.*