--- title: "Leigh Designs — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/leigh-designs-pfvwus-pf~1921132290 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1921132290.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Leigh Designs" category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/8a33d84100749516_2801-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "163 Lakeshore Court, Berkeley, California 94804, United States" latitude: 37.9265 longitude: -122.3342 phone: "(510) 559-6969" website: http://leigh@leighdesigns.biz rating: 5 review_count: 9 best_of_houzz_awards: 3 followers: 67 last_updated: 2026-11-05 --- # Leigh Designs Original Houzz profile: [Leigh Designs](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/leigh-designs-pfvwus-pf~1921132290) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers - **Location:** Berkeley, CA - **Serves:** Berkeley - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (9 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2016–2021), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves We believe in creating beautiful landscapes and outdoor environments that reflect your unique personality and home. We offer simple, practical and elegant solutions that support and enhance the activities and pleasures you derive from your garden. One of the ways we do that is by offering virtual landscape concepts. If you've ever been frustrated visualizing how your landscape will look from a drawing, then you know how valuable a virtual design concept can be. We take a photo of your site and digitally place the plants, decking or patio on the photo to show you a highly realistic rendering of what your landscaping will look like before it's installed. Landscaping can be surprisingly costly. With our process, you can easily make changes before spending any money. And you'll feel more assured knowing that everyone involved in the project has the same visual goal. Whether you have a small or a large project, we handle both the design and the installation. Call to set up an appointment for an evaluation. We'd be happy to discuss ideas with you! ### Services Provided - Landscape Design - Garden Design - Hardscaping - Landscape Plans - Patio Design - Site Planning - Drought Tolerant Landscaping - Custom Fire Pits - Pool Landscaping - Custom Water Features - Outdoor Lighting Design - Deck Design - Project Management - Drafting - Organic Gardens ### Areas Served - Berkeley ### Typical Job Cost $20,000 - 300,000 ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Leigh Designs | | Address | 163 Lakeshore Court, Berkeley, California 94804, United States | | Phone | (510) 559-6969 | | Website | http://leigh@leighdesigns.biz | | Followers on Houzz | 67 | ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Leigh Designs](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/leigh-designs-pfvwus-pf~1921132290) - **Website:** http://leigh@leighdesigns.biz - **Phone:** (510) 559-6969 ## Credentials - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2016–2021), for Design, Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 9 reviews** ### All 9 reviews **★★★★★ — Jennifer Nadler, Nov. 2017** > I couldn't be happier. > What I started with: A lawn of weeds and a yard that gets full sun all day. > What we ended with: No more lawn of weeds, a beautifully designed zen like yard with plants that will stay green all year and will sprout beautiful flowers 2/3 to 3/4 of the year. Plus a red tree. She helped choose plants that would flourish in our strong sun yard while still sipping water. She laid out where the plants should be installed and worked hand in hand with the landscaper. I'm very happy with the results. **★★★★★ — schlendrian86, Sept. 2015** > I am a professional gardener in the East Bay and SF, and I have recently had the pleasure of doing maintenance for a few gardens landscaped by Leigh Designs. The plant selections are excellent, consisting of dependable, low-maintenance plants that fit the climate as well as the recent drought situation. The layouts are beautiful and unique. > > As a maintenance specialist, there is nothing I like more than to work in gardens where everything is in the perfect place and there are no uphill battles (i.e. water hogs, invasive plants, size conflicts). I highly recommend Leigh Designs to anyone who is seeking that "finished" look you see in magazines, that also provides a manageable, harmonious outdoor living space. **Comment from Leigh Designs:** > Thank you so much for your complimentary review Amelia! You are a wonderful resource for my clients. And I am so grateful to have a reliable, knowledgable, and talented gardener to maintain my client's dream gardens! **★★★★★ — Margarita Baca, Sept. 2015** > Before working with Leigh, we struggled with developing our back yard for many years. After speaking with her, I could tell she had a good grasp of what we wanted and she delivered. She offered a lot of great suggestions that we had never considered. The process with her and the landscape contractor she works with was very professional. Our backyard was an uneven hodgepodge mess. It is now transformed into a beautiful, cohesive, drought tolerant garden. Without reservation we highly recommend Leigh Designs! **Comment from Leigh Designs:** > It was a real pleasure to work with you! I hope you enjoy your new garden space for years to come. > > Leigh **★★★★★ — maryglover906, July 2015** > I can't say enough good things about Leigh! I wanted a landscape designer, because I knew I needed someone who had a good eye and was able to visualize what was best for my backyard, but wasn't sure how to start. I looked at some reviews of landscaping companies on line but they only seemed to emphasize the construction part of the project. Then I saw a review from someone who hired a construction firm to implement a "Leigh Gronet design" - and I said - that's what I need! So I went on Leigh's website and was impressed that she had done plans for homes in my area. > Leigh is very easy to work with and has great design ideas. She listed to what I wanted and managed to incorporate all the elements I desired, plus she suggested some elements that were perfect. She delivered plans and explained all the plants that she had selected. > Leigh also project-managed the construction end of the project with Dagoberto Garcia. Again, that part went very smoothly. All the pieces of the project came together at the right time and the end result is absolutely great, better than I even imagined. It is almost like I have an additional room in my house, because the backyard is now so usable and comfortable. > Leigh is great - I am so glad I hired her! **Comment from Leigh Designs:** > Hi Mary, > > Thanks so much for your wonderful and thoughtful review! Knowing you are happy with your new garden makes what I do all worthwhile! It was a pleasure working with you and I hope your new outdoor space inspires you in your retirement! > > Best, > Leigh **★★★★★ — barb510, April 2015** > Leigh of Leigh Designs was so perfect in creating beauty where there was none. Her creative design replaced my boring and work intensive front lawn. My, not so beautiful patch of lawn, was becoming a burden several years before the recent concerns about water conservation. Leigh's design added "drive-by appeal" to my property with the addition of drought tolerant plants and large rocks. Leigh created interesting textures, amazing colors and perfect plant placement all of which has lasted. Five years later my neighbors continue to compliment the design! Working with Leigh on this project was a good investment in my property and very simple for me as Leigh was so professional in getting the job done. **Comment from Leigh Designs:** > Thank you for this wonderful review Barbara! It was a pleasure working with you. Enjoy your garden. **★★★★★ — Anita Hayward, April 2015** > We knew the look we wanted, how we wanted to use the space and a few plants that we liked. Leigh took these elements and turned them into a vision that fit our esthetic, our lifestyle and our budget. She actively listened, clarified and suggested possibilities as she guided us through the planning process. Her plans included virtual concepts of how our landscape would look after it was installed. Her drawings were thorough and keyed to colored pictures of plants and materials. We could actually see what we were designing with her. She researched every element of the project and made sure that it was all structurally sound. She was patient, flexible and informative when we wanted to make changes. She is an incredibly reliable, ethical and timely project manager. Working with Leigh was the best collaborative experience we had during our two year remodeling project. We came to her with the basics and she made our outdoor dream come true. **★★★★★ — rkaydia, April 2015** > Leigh is a creative professional who will bring to your project all the depth of knowledge, organizational skill, and creative flair you want for your project. Best of all, she's not afraid to respectfully disagree if she sees you are not seeing the full potential for some element of the work. She has close, productive relationships with the contractors who install the landscape and hardscapes, and this is key. She doesn't duck out once the project starts like some designers do. She is your advocate throughout the process. Her virtual design offering enables you to see it all before you commit, so you can move forward with confidence. **★★★★★ — asgrunberg, April 2015** > Leigh carefully listened to what I wanted for my garden and came up with a design that perfectly met my wishes. I had my lawn removed which had been beset by raccoon problems for years (and also because of the drought) but wanted to maintain the park-like setting that I so loved. She suggested (to my horror at first) artificial turf. This is not astro-turf! This is lovely, soft, real-looking and feeling, and is also environmentally friendly. Leigh's design incorporated flagstone and boulders that melded well with existing rock. She understood my desire for a variety of plants that contained different textures and colors. I love the result! The garden is like an additional room in my house, so comfortable, welcoming and beautiful. > > I feel compelled to amend my review. Although everything I said in my original review is correct, the fact is that I believe Leigh did not adequately consider the weather conditions in my garden before suggesting the plantings. For example, her design included very many helebores, shade-loving plants. My garden gets a great deal of hot sun and many of the helebores are frying. When I emailed her and brought this to her attention, she seemed unconcerned and told me I could move them if I wished. So my concerns are twofold: 1. that she did not carefully consider the climate before designing for the plants and 2. when I brought this to her attention, she kissed me off. **Comment from Leigh Designs:** > Thank you Adele for bringing it to my attention how I can better serve you. In order to make up for any shortcomings, I have provided 6 substitute plants for the original 6 plants that failed to thrive. I hope this new cultivar will delight you, and satisfy any misgivings! **★★★★★ — chuckrockey, March 2015** > Leigh is terrific to work with! She was very collaborative, sensitive to my tastes and produced an amazing design for my garden - all within a very reasonable budget I still get compliments all the time! ## Selected projects - [Berkeley Mediterranean Backyard Patio & Pathway](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/berkeley-mediterranean-backyard-patio-and-pathway-pj-vj~1058740) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 10 - Description: A bedroom patio opens up onto a lush and bidding pathway. The client wanted to walk around their garden and experience little surprises along the way. We created a central berm with different levels to obscure certain sections that would only be discovered while meandering the garden path. Little succulent surprises, a veggie bed section, an intimate seating area, and a bubbling rock, were garden elements that would ensure sensual delight. - [Marin Traditional Craftsman Backyard Patio & Spa](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/marin-traditional-craftsman-backyard-patio-and-spa-pj-vj~448121) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: Simple and elegant planting complement this stately and charming house. A large retaining wall draped with cascading vines separates the lower patio from an upper level patio, as well as hides the spa equipment. Pergolas, blossoming trees, meandering pathways, and delightful perennials grace this landscape. - [Oakland Modern-Rustic Backyard Patio & Fire Pit](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oakland-modern-rustic-backyard-patio-and-fire-pit-pj-vj~448163) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: The client wanted to maximize their hillside space with several entertaining outdoor rooms. It was also important to create a landscape style that reflected their home's contemporary craftsman architecture. We created a dining area with a built in bench for overflow. Cantilevered steps lead to a fire pit and lounge area on an upper level patio. Hillside planting creates a cohesive feel. - [Moraga Modern-Rustic Backyard Deck & Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/moraga-modern-rustic-backyard-deck-and-patio-pj-vj~448218) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: These clients were originally from Australia and were excited to have many native Australian plants chosen for their California backyard. A curved ipe deck and flagstone patio add some flow to an otherwise boxy house. The deck's cable railing maintains their beautiful view. A pathway leads to a dry riverbed, both a natural element and a practical walkway. - [Oakland Hills Rustic Craftsman Side Yard Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oakland-hills-rustic-craftsman-side-yard-patio-pj-vj~1017140) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - Description: Raccoons and gophers routinely destroyed the lawn in this side yard. As a result it was not an inviting outdoor room. Although the client was adamant at first, a premium sample of artificial turf persuaded her that she could still have an authentic look and feel of spacious green serenity. We created a larger planting border with drought-tolerant plants, and added boulders for texture and to create a more organic perimeter. The client was thrilled that she and her family could still lounge, read… - [Lafayette Traditional Craftsman Entryway](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lafayette-traditional-craftsman-entryway-pj-vj~998368) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 2 - [El Cerrito Mid Century Modern Deck Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/el-cerrito-mid-century-modern-deck-patio-pj-vj~994556) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 6 - Description: Each outdoor room of this El Cerrito Mid Century Modern backyard deck, from the outdoor kitchen, to the dining area, to lounge area, maximize the views of the bay. This couple were very excited about and involved in designing the look and feel of their outdoor living space. For instance, instead of the typical deck redwood flooring, we were able to accommodate their desire to have a flagstone floor built on a redwood frame, which was more in keeping with their Mid Century Modern style. The husba… - [Oakland Hills Modern Deck Planters](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oakland-hills-modern-deck-planters-pj-vj~469623) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 1 - [North Berkeley Classic Patio and Play Space](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/north-berkeley-classic-patio-and-play-space-pj-vj~1316865) - Location: Berkeley, CA - Photos: 4 - Description: This was a very shady and enclosed backyard. The goal was to create lounge and dining areas, as well as a play area for the kids. Creating curved stairs provided a graceful aesthetic solution and practical access to any direction. The clients were amazed at how much more usable space the actually had. Artificial turf proved the best solution for soccer cleats, low water, and maintenance. - [Lafayette Mediterranean Hillside Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lafayette-mediterranean-hillside-patio-pj-vj~1058807) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 6 - Description: This Lafayette client had a significant front yard hillside and wanted to use it to enjoy their view of Mount Diablo. We created a hillside planted in a Mediterranean style; easy care, deer resistant, and low maintenance. We crowned the hillside with this patio, where these clients could go in the evenings and unwind with a glass of wine and the warm glow of Mount Diablo. - [Lafayette Modern Rustic Front Entryway & Backyard Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lafayette-modern-rustic-front-entryway-and-backyard-patio-pj-vj~1058802) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - [Lafayette Modern Below Deck Bocce Ball Court](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lafayette-modern-below-deck-bocce-ball-court-pj-vj~1026970) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: This Lafayette client had longed for a bocci ball court. They also had several-story deck with unused empty space below -- perfect for a cool play area in the summer! We took advantage of the rise in grade to create two built-in seating areas. - [Piedmont Mediterranean Balcony](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/piedmont-mediterranean-balcony-pj-vj~1058773) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 11 - [Lafayette Modern Patio & Outdoor Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lafayette-modern-patio-and-outdoor-kitchen-pj-vj~1058710) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 18 - Description: This Walnut Creek client wanted to compliment their modern home architecture with an outdoor patio and kitchen, and a front yard courtyard with a water feature. The wife was Asian and wanted to add Asian flare in the planting theme as well as the patio accessories. - [Pt. Richmond Modern Front Yard with Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pt-richmond-modern-front-yard-with-patio-pj-vj~1058609) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 11 - Description: The backyard of this Pt. Richmond couple consisted of a docked 47' sailboat. So their front yard needed to be multi-functional. They wanted a sanctuary, an seating area are for neighbors to congregate, and a distinct and clear entryway. A sweeping flagstone path clearly marks the entryway, and as one exists the front door, corten steel panels with a motif of playful sails hide the neighbor's garage. Berms add a level of privacy and coziness, and drought tolerant succulents, shrubs and perennials… - [Rustic Berkeley Craftsman Front Yard Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rustic-berkeley-craftsman-front-yard-patio-pj-vj~1109430) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: These Berkeley clients wanted a space in their front yard where they could informally meet with neighbors, hang out while they watched their kids play, and provide an invitation to sit and contemplate the beauty around them. Nothing says come and sit a while like this charming bench, flagstone patio and surrounding fairy-tale like planting. - [Alamo Traditional Modern Front Yard with Flagstone Pathways](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/alamo-traditional-modern-front-yard-with-flagstone-pathways-pj-vj~1083699) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - Description: This client had just bought their house in Alamo and wanted desperately to update the property. The client's criteria was to have a small area of grass so their child could play, as well as low maintenance, drought tolerant, and deer resistant planting. We created a virtual demonstration of their house facade and complimentary landscaping. - [BEFORE Lafayette Outdoor Dining/Lounge Patio and Pergola Backyard](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/before-lafayette-outdoor-dining-lounge-patio-and-pergola-backyard-pj-vj~7642520) - Location: Lafayette, CA - Photos: 8 - [Piedmont, CA Indonesian-Themed Garden Rooms](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/piedmont-ca-indonesian-themed-garden-rooms-pj-vj~7197628) - Location: Piedmont, CA - Photos: 4 - [Oakland Backyard with Sail Shades, Arbor, and Seating Wall](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oakland-backyard-with-sail-shades-arbor-and-seating-wall-pj-vj~6291410) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 1 [See all 23 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/leigh-designs-pfvwus-pf~1921132290) --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-11-05.*