--- title: "Iris Design Associates — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/iris-design-associates-pfvwus-pf~276845331 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~276845331.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Iris Design Associates" category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/29f300a80f3bb2f7_8163-w400-h400-b1-p10--.jpg address: "12709 Marsh Road, Bealeton, Virginia 22712, United States" latitude: 38.5453 longitude: -77.7561 phone: "(703) 403-5727" website: https://irisdesignassociates.com rating: 5 review_count: 22 years_in_business: 20 best_of_houzz_awards: 13 followers: 165 last_updated: 2026-08-12 --- # Iris Design Associates > Northern Virginia Landscape Architect - 13x Best of Houzz Winner! Original Houzz profile: [Iris Design Associates](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/iris-design-associates-pfvwus-pf~276845331) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers - **Location:** Bealeton, VA - **Serves:** Charlottesville, Winchester, Fredericksburg, Warrenton, Bealeton, Remington, Opal, Midland, Brandy Station, Catlett, Calverton, Casanova, Elkwood, Goldvein, Jeffersonton, Maryland, Northern Virginia, Somerville, Stevensburg, Sumerduck, Washington DC - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (22 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 13 awards (2013–2022), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - 20 years in business ### Business highlights - Best of Houzz winner - 20 years in business In our firm the designer and the principal are the same. The company and the individual you deal with directly are the same. The advantage is consistent translation of your ideas from the first discussion to the finished drawing. JOSHUA SCHAAF, principal, has more than fifteen years of professional practice, specializing in the design and master planning of custom residential landscapes, swimming pools, and outdoor entertainment areas in the Northern Virginia, Maryland, and the greater Washington DC area. ### Services Provided - Landscape Design - Garden Design - Hardscaping - Landscape Plans - Patio Design - Site Planning - Pool Landscaping - Custom Fire Pits - Swimming Pool Design - Custom Water Features - Gazebo Design & Construction - Deck Design - 3D Rendering - Project Management - Organic Gardens - Pond Construction - Edible Gardens - Landscape Architecture & Design - Outdoor Kitchen Design - Pergola Design ### Areas Served - Charlottesville - Winchester - Fredericksburg - Warrenton - Bealeton - Remington - Opal - Midland - Brandy Station - Catlett - Calverton - Casanova - Elkwood - Goldvein - Jeffersonton - Maryland - Northern Virginia - Somerville - Stevensburg - Sumerduck - Washington DC ### Typical Job Cost $30,000 - 1,000,000 Our typical budgets for plan preparation range from $750 - $4000 and we work on projects typically ranging from $30K to 1 million. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Iris Design Associates | | Address | 12709 Marsh Road, Bealeton, Virginia 22712, United States | | Phone | (703) 403-5727 | | Website | https://irisdesignassociates.com | | Years in business | 20 | | Followers on Houzz | 165 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/IrisDesignAssociates ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Iris Design Associates](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/iris-design-associates-pfvwus-pf~276845331) - **Website:** https://irisdesignassociates.com - **Phone:** (703) 403-5727 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Best of Houzz 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 - **Best of Houzz:** 13 awards (2013–2022), for Design, Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 22 reviews** ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — tk414, June 2013** > We hired Josh to design our outdoor pool/patio/kitchen project. His design was absolutely amazing! He listened to everything we wanted and came up with a design that was cohesive, elegant, and incredible. He found a way to include every idea we had, but improved every one of them. He was fantastic to work with, responsive, and turned the design around in a matter of days. > > I would HIGHLY recommend Josh and IDA if you are considering an outdoor project. He took our basic ideas and turned them into a work of art. It was well worth every penny! ### All 22 reviews **★★★★★ — Stuart Harrison, Feb. 2019** > We engaged Iris Design and Josh Schaaf through professional recommendations within the industry. We could not be happier with the product received! Josh met with him us for an initial scoping of our patio / hardscape concept, communicated with u through his design process, and provided a 1-1 review of the final product. Josh produced a detailed plan for the exterior layout of our new home that we look forward to implementing. Quality design at a fair price. > > AAA+++ recommendation for Josh and Iris Design! **★★★★★ — Jennifer Barrett, Nov. 2018** > Really enjoyed working with Josh at Iris Designs. He was prompt in replying to inquiries and accurately predicted his timelines (site survey, follow up questions, plan delivery etc). He has a solid gift for explaining the plans, anticipating questions and patiently walking through his decision making process for plant selection and layout. Really appreciate that he not only presented us a practical hardscape, but the landscape plan will also provide all the things we were seeking and many of the things we didn’t even think about (neighbor sight line buffers, depth of landscape heights and alternating development/duration of color throughout the year). After our initial plan was presented, we had some tweaks which he turned in minimal time! And he’s still following through with thoughts and answers as we continue executing his beautiful plan! **★★★★★ — Brad & Katherine Anderson, April 2018** > We had Josh @ Iris Design Assoc. design our backyard pool project. He was such a pleasure to work with, and we could not be happier with how it turned out. > > We had a deadline to get changes our HOA requested, and Josh went above and beyond to work with us to get that done. > > From the beginning, when we had no idea where to begin or what we really wanted, he was able to come up with a beautiful design that we just loved. > > We definitely recommend him to everyone looking to enhance their living space or begin a project. He was professional, affordable, and made sure we had everything we needed on time. **★★★★★ — Meg Econ, March 2018** > After meeting with several companies we selected IDA because of Josh. In addition to listening to our desires for our backyard and patio he asked questions and offered options that we had not considered. We loved the design he developed for our project. He was very professional and approachable. His experience and knowledge is invaluable. **★★★★★ — Patrick Steininger, Oct. 2017** > Josh created an incredible design for our pool and relandscaping of our entire house. His design perfectly reflected our ideas and his technical drawing was much more than we expected. He was prompt with our meetings and gave us as much time as we needed. They came out and measured and plotted locations and elevations. He then created the most professional drawing I have seen that incorporated all our desires and all the measurements needed to get the pool and landscaping companies started. Great service and product! **★★★★★ — Rossen Landscape, Sept. 2016** > Josh was extremely helpful in creating a to-scale plan view of our client's landscape. I was also very impressed with his 3-D Renderings of the layout schematic, complete with elevations. The plan view was clearly labelled, quantities given and square footage notated on each plan. Very impressive presentation. > > The most impressive aspect of working with Iris Design associates is they stick to their timeline and deliver on or before their scheduled delivery date of materials. Any adjustments were made quickly an with less than 48 hour turn around. I enjoy working with Josh on projects and look forward to working with him in the future! **★★★★★ — obrien809, Aug. 2016** > Finally found what we were looking for in IDA and Josh. Prompt, courteous and ready to listen to our ideas instead of forcing his on us. Josh did a fantastic job with the design and provided some recommendations of contractors to make it a reality. He answered both basic and detailed technical questions regarding the design and construction process. Can't wait to get this all completed. **★★★★★ — HU-851750, Aug. 2016** > IDA did a great job for me on an initial design which was built and then a follow up extension. Great work! **★★★★★ — Radhika Nataraj, July 2016** > Josh is extremely knowledgeable, very professional and was a pleasure to work with. He was patient and listened to what we wanted and truly understood our needs. Without hesitation, I would highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for an amazing Landscape Architect. **★★★★★ — Michele Roberts, Sept. 2015** > We hired Iris Designs to do a backyard design for our pool and the surrounding area. Josh came out to me us. He was very professional and it was easy to work with him. He surveyed our yard and came back with a terrific plan that encompassed all of our needs. **★★★★★ — brucam52, Sept. 2015** > Iris Design Associates is truly one of the best designers you would ever want to use. Their knowledge and expertise and willingness to work with our ideas have made the experience well worth it for us. **★★★★★ — User, Sept. 2014** > Josh was always listening to our desires and concerns with attention to detail. He said what we could expect from him and he delivered! He was also great about steering us to other people who could help us get our pool renovation and landscaping done in a professional and timely manner. **★★★★★ — lauraskeen, Feb. 2014** > After interviewing a number of landscape architects, In November of 2013, my wife and I hired Iris design to prepare plans for our land and hardscapes as well as for our pool. We worked with Josh Schaaf and were completely thrilled with his work. Josh was very professional, had great ideas and provided plans in a timely manner. We highly recommend and Josh and would absolutely hire him again. **★★★★★ — poolforyard, Feb. 2014** > Very Happy with Job-incredible plan, on time, on budget, and an honorable business man and talented artist! Josh completed a great design for me and helped with the next step in the process of building a pool! **★★★★★ — sclindstrom, Nov. 2013** > Josh was extremely thorough. His prices are very fair and his work is excellent. I felt that he really listened to what was important to us and incorporated those elements into his design while also offering new and exciting ideas to compliment our own. I would HIGHLY recommend Josh. His designs and customer service are both top notch. He even sent the designs for me to several landscape companies to bid on. (BTW he has no financial interest and does not receive a commission from any of those companies; it was just a curtsey.) **★★★★★ — REMAX Select Properties, Inc., Aug. 2013** > My husband and I recently hired Iris Design Associates, LLC (owner Josh Schaaf) to design a plan for our newly fenced-in back yard. Josh listened to our ideas and desires then came up with a design that incorporated not only our ideas but details we would never have thought to include. Josh's knowledge and expertise in design and landscaping is impressive. He's truly an artist and we can't wait to make his design our reality! > > Glorianne Schultz > Sterling, VA **★★★★★ — mgrinn, Aug. 2013** > Joshua was punctual, polite, professional and did an excellent job of creating a diagram/blueprint of exactly what we wanted. He listened to what we wanted and provided us with different options and venues to help us achieve our desired goals. > > Josh's blueprint was the starting point with making our dream project come to life! > > I would certainly recommend Josh and Iris Designs to anyone starting a large landscaping project. > > Mike G. **★★★★★ — 2manyhorses, May 2013** > I highly recommend Iris Design. Josh listened very carefully to what I wanted in the space and devised a plan which incorporated everything beautifully. **★★★★★ — rmpridmore, Jan. 2013** > Josh was wonderful to work with on the design of our pool and landscape. He listened to what we wanted and created a spectacular space out of a challenging land layout. His final design was beyond our expectations. We highly recommend Josh from Iris Designs. **★★★★★ — mikeandterri, Sept. 2012** > Josh met us at our new property, listened to our needs, and came up with a great pool/landscaping plan which not only met our needs but exceeded our expectations. Then when the County required some revisions, he met the county's requirements with minimal extra expense. We can recommend him and his company without reservation. **★★★★★ — Pristine Acres, May 2012** > We use Iris Design Associates as our exclusive landscape architecture firm. Mr. Josh Schaaf is as talented, experienced, professional, and courteous as any landscape architect in the entire Metro DC region. There is a reason that highly-respected pool companies in the area use him for all of their projects. From comprehensive surveys, to hand-colored designs, to 3D renderings, Josh has all of the skills and ability. Josh and his team are sincere, genuine, and ethical. If you are looking for experience, character, and exceptional results, Iris Design Associates is your best option. ## Selected projects - [Barclays Pointe](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/barclays-pointe-pj-vj~7245588) - Location: Gore, VA - Photos: 37 - [Fountainhead](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fountainhead-pj-vj~7245584) - Location: Maryland City, MD - Photos: 20 - [Lions Gate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lions-gate-pj-vj~7246762) - Location: Great Falls, Virginia - Photos: 12 - [Farm Pool](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/farm-pool-pj-vj~7244927) - Location: Bealeton, VA - Photos: 6 - [Dominion Mill Luxury Outdoor Living](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dominion-mill-luxury-outdoor-living-pj-vj~7245564) - Location: Haymarket, VA - Photos: 9 - [Waterfront patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/waterfront-patio-pj-vj~7245582) - Location: Virginia Beach, VA - Photos: 2 - [Sanctuary Pool](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sanctuary-pool-pj-vj~7245577) - Location: Virginia Beach, VA - Photos: 3 - [Landscape + Patio + Lighting](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/landscape-patio-lighting-pj-vj~7245555) - Location: Bealeton, VA - Photos: 5 - [Pool and covered spaces](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pool-and-covered-spaces-pj-vj~7244517) - Location: Bealeton, VA - Photos: 14 - [Moon Hill](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/moon-hill-pj-vj~7245585) - Location: Virginia Beach, VA - Photos: 3 - [Taliesen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/taliesen-pj-vj~7245586) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - [Limestone Ferry](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/limestone-ferry-pj-vj~7245570) - Location: Alexandria, VA - Photos: 13 - [Pavilion and Courtyard](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pavilion-and-courtyard-pj-vj~7244516) - Location: Vienna, Virginia - Photos: 6 - [Urban deck + pergola + spa](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/urban-deck-pergola-spa-pj-vj~7245579) - Location: Alexandria, VA - Photos: 5 - [Fireplace + Pool](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fireplace-pool-pj-vj~7245557) - Location: Alexandria, VA - Photos: 3 - [Crossing Water](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/crossing-water-pj-vj~6666483) - Location: Waterford, Virginia - Photos: 63 - [Urban Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/urban-patio-pj-vj~7244520) - Location: Bealeton, VA - Photos: 2 - [Piedmont Poolside](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/piedmont-poolside-pj-vj~7245554) - Location: Virginia Beach, VA - Photos: 6 - [Hilltop](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hilltop-pj-vj~7245765) - Location: Warrenton, VA - Photos: 14 - [Fireplace terrace](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fireplace-terrace-pj-vj~7244519) - Location: Bealeton, VA - Photos: 3 [See all 100 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/iris-design-associates-pfvwus-pf~276845331) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/840715790.m3u8?s=371930752e2ef828bf0cf8deeb61eb4222f62d90&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **What types of landscape design projects do you specialize in?** We specialize in custom residential landscapes, swimming pools, and outdoor entertainment areas. Our projects often include comprehensive designs for patios, decks, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, water features, and gardens. We focus on creating an authentic sense of place that integrates naturally with your home and environment, ensuring a unique and personalized outdoor living space. **Do you offer design-only services or full project coordination?** We primarily offer comprehensive design services, creating detailed plans and drawings for your outdoor space. Our process includes thorough site analysis and client collaboration to ensure the design perfectly matches your vision. We also offer project management to help coordinate the implementation of our designs, ensuring a smooth transition from concept to reality. **Do you create detailed planting and layout plans?** Yes, absolutely. We create very detailed planting and layout plans. Our process involves a thorough site analysis to understand your property's unique elements, sun exposure, and drainage. This allows us to design a landscape that not only looks beautiful but also thrives, incorporating specific plant selections and a thoughtful layout that complements your home and lifestyle. **Do you design outdoor living spaces such as patios and outdoor kitchens?** Yes, designing outdoor living spaces is a core part of what we do. We specialize in creating custom patios, decks, and outdoor kitchens, along with features like pergolas, fireplaces, and covered spaces. Our goal is to extend your home's living area into the outdoors, crafting functional and beautiful environments for relaxation and entertainment that truly fit your lifestyle. **Do you design drought-tolerant or sustainable landscapes?** While we don't explicitly list 'drought-tolerant' as a service, our design philosophy centers on creating landscapes that have an authentic 'sense of fit' with the environment. This involves a thorough site analysis, considering natural drainage and existing plant materials. We aim to incorporate natural elements rather than remove them, which often leads to more sustainable and resilient designs. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Water Features](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/11672566/list/water-features) — 14 ideas - [Garden](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/87139185/list/garden) — 2 ideas - [Fire Pit / Fireplace](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/54146054/list/fire-pit-fireplace) — 8 ideas - [Paths](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/71156244/list/paths) — 9 ideas - [Piers / Gates](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/29868330/list/piers-gates) — 18 ideas - [Homes](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/11671917/list/homes) — 53 ideas - [Pavilions](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/11535566/list/pavilions) — 41 ideas - [Grill Areas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/53978722/list/grill-areas) — 3 ideas - [Pools](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/11535482/list/pools) — 69 ideas - [Pergolas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/18040205/list/pergolas) — 12 ideas - [Boulder Steps](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/11672048/list/boulder-steps) — 11 ideas - [Stone Garden](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/11672921/list/stone-garden) — 7 ideas - [Cabin Interiors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/11672931/list/cabin-interiors) — 12 ideas [See all 13 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/irisdesign) ## Community Q&A **Q: what is the name of the pool coupling?** *(in Photo Questions)* Pool coupling A: Scabos Travertine **Q: what steps are these** *(in Photo Questions)* color and style please. thx! A: 2” full range flagstone tread with natural stone riser **Q: Are these pavers blu60 champlain grey slate?** *(in Photo Questions)* thx A: Yes **Q: what is the coping?** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you give me style and color of coping? thx A: 2” full range flagstone **Q: Are these deer resistant?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Green Giant Arborviate is an offshoot of Western Red Cedar which is generally deer resistant so given other choices deer may sample the Green Giant and then reject it because of the similar traits of its progenitor however in cases of severe winter or lack of food sources it will get grazed by deer. **Q: Plant material** *(in Photo Questions)* Hello! Would you be willing to tell me the name of this plant material? I love it! Thank you! A: This is Moonbeam Coreopsis, thank you. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-12.*