--- title: "Karen Aitken and Associates — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/karen-aitken-and-associates-pfvwus-pf~403510555 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~403510555.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Karen Aitken and Associates" category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/2c43faca0309505b_1227-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "Gilroy, California 95020, United States" latitude: 37.0139 longitude: -121.5773 phone: "(408) 842-0245" website: http://karenaitkenassociates.com rating: 4.9 review_count: 50 years_in_business: 40 best_of_houzz_awards: 15 followers: 360 last_updated: 2026-09-16 --- # Karen Aitken and Associates > South Bay Award Winning Landscape Architecture Firm 11x Best of Houzz Original Houzz profile: [Karen Aitken and Associates](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/karen-aitken-and-associates-pfvwus-pf~403510555) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers - **Location:** Gilroy, CA - **Serves:** San Jose, Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, Santa Cruz, Gilroy, Watsonville, Morgan Hill, Hollister, Menlo Park, Los Gatos, Los Altos, Monterey, Hillsborough, Pebble Beach, Capitola, Los Altos Hills, Interlaken, Atherton, San Martin, Aptos, Woodside, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pajaro, Aromas, Corralitos, San Juan Bautista, Carmel - **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (50 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 15 awards (2015–2026), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 25,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Locally owned - 40 years in business ### Business highlights - Locally owned - Best of Houzz winner - 40 years in business Karen Aitken and Associates is a premier landscape architecture firm serving the unique needs of the extended San Francisco Bay area and Monterey county communities. We specialize in creating environmentally conscious landscapes that are dynamic, thoughtful, and innovative. Our reputation is based, in part, upon listening and responding to our client’s specific needs (whether commercial or residential) and creating delightful environments tailored to your wishes and desires. ### Services Provided - Landscape Design - Garden Design - Hardscaping - Landscape Plans - Patio Design - Drought Tolerant Landscaping - Site Planning - Custom Fire Pits - Pool Landscaping - Custom Water Features - Swimming Pool Design - Gazebo Design & Construction - Design Consultation - Outdoor Lighting Design - Deck Design - 3D Rendering - Project Management - Drafting - Organic Gardens - Edible Gardens - Custom Bocce Ball Courts - Living Walls - Greenhouse Design & Construction - Landscape Supplies - Patio Gardens ### Areas Served - San Jose - Sunnyvale - Palo Alto - Santa Cruz - Gilroy - Watsonville - Morgan Hill - Hollister - Menlo Park - Los Gatos - Los Altos - Monterey - Hillsborough - Pebble Beach - Capitola - Los Altos Hills - Interlaken - Atherton - San Martin - Aptos - Woodside - Carmel-by-the-Sea - Pajaro - Aromas - Corralitos - San Juan Bautista - Carmel ### Typical Job Cost $50,000 - 1.5 million Regardless of job cost, we can work together to make sure your landscape vision comes to life. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Karen Aitken and Associates | | Address | Gilroy, California 95020, United States | | Phone | (408) 842-0245 | | Website | http://karenaitkenassociates.com | | License Number | CA 2239 | | Years in business | 40 | | Followers on Houzz | 360 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/AitkenAssociates?ref=hl - X (Twitter) — www.twitter.com/realkarenaitken - Blog — https://www.instagram.com/karenaitkenassociates/ ## Offers Keep Your Dreams Moving Forward - _Virtual Meetings Always Available!_ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Karen Aitken and Associates](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/karen-aitken-and-associates-pfvwus-pf~403510555) - **Website:** http://karenaitkenassociates.com - **Phone:** (408) 842-0245 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Licensed as a Landscape Architect with the State of California: Reg. \#2239 - **Best of Houzz:** 15 awards (2015–2026), 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: 4.9 out of 5 — 50 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 48.0 - Communication: 48.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — MyPrefabHomes, March 2024** > We had the pleasure of collaborating with Karen and the team at KAA on a build project several years ago. Seeing how they worked on the initial consultation to the final walk-through, their expertise, professionalism, and commitment to client satisfaction were evident every step of the way. **★★★★★ — HU-518095301, Dec. 2023** > Karen drew a plan for my yard earlier this year, and I could not be happier with the results. She listened to what I wanted and was very responsive. She had extremely good ideas and adjustments to make the final product exactly what I wanted. She is very creative and easy to work with. Her follow up and listening skills are first class. It was a complete pleasure to work with her, and she worked extremely well with the landscape installer that did my yard. **★★★★★ — lncheskin, Dec. 2023** > Karen was our designer for a very large, full redesign of our Los Gatos, California garden. She carefully listened to our wishes and designed them into her detailed plan. One example is that in her plant choices, she created a beautiful butterfly/hummingbird area right down to selecting the specific color schemes we requested. She did all of this while at the same time creating an open and sunlit but private sanctuary. In addition, Karen was always available to come to the job site when we asked to answer questions and make in-the-field modifications. Most importantly, Karen is a lovely, polite, and calm person and is extremely easy to work with. **★★★★★ — New Technology Specialists, June 2022** > I've been working with Karen for over 10 years now! And I have to say every project has been an extreme pleasure to work with her and her team! > > We are a general contracting company that does various projects from schools, to churches to private residences. Karen has always been my go to landscape designer and I could not recommend anyone better than her! She is able to meet with the client, understand their needs and produce a design that meets or exceeds their expectations. I can tell you that the plans she produces are very detailed, easy to read and understand. Karen and her team are extremely responsive when changes come up, is able to problem solve and has a lot of valuable resources. I've done over 10 projects with her now and have been thoroughly impressed with the results. I think her versatility to work with both general contractors at a fast pace, and take the time and effort to work with the end client on a much slower and through pace makes her different than most architects that I've worked with in the past. I really don't think you'll be able to find a better team that Karen Aitken and Associates. **★★★★★ — JMS, Feb. 2022** > Karen designed a beautiful landscape for my home in Hollister. My house is a newish build on a small lot. There was builder-installed landscaping in the front yard and nothing in the back. I had some ideas about what I wanted and asked Karen to design something for the entire lot (front, back, and side yards). On her site visit she walked around the lot, looked at the cartoon I'd drawn and my magazine clippings, and (most importantly) listened to what I said about my background and what I wanted to see in the garden. She came up with a plan that wasn't exactly what I expected but incorporated everything I'd asked for. I could tell that it would be beautiful when implemented. We made a few adjustments and additions. She had some recommendations for a landscape contractor and I went with one of them. The project was completed recently and is absolutely beautiful. My family, friends, and I will enjoy the yard for years to come. **★★★★★ — Marjorie Johnson, Nov. 2021** > We forgot to write a review a while back on the landscape design that Karen did for us. We truly love how the yard is filling in giving it that cozy European respite feeling we wanted. She has a wonderful eye for design for sure! Looking forward to working with her on future projects! **★★★★★ — Sereno Group, Jan. 2021** > As a real estate professional, it's crucial for me to work with reliable, knowledgeable and customer-friendly partners. Karen and her team has worked with my clients, as well as my own home, and across all types of wants and needs - from specific, small projects, to full scale landscape construction. From Palo Alto yards to acre properties, from plantings, hardscape, pools, etc. I've been very happy with Karen's diverse knowledge and can-do attitude! You're welcome to reach out if you'd like additional information **Comment from Karen Aitken and Associates:** > Thank you very much for your recommendation. You offer your clients such a unique service, in helping a new home buyer get connected with all of the design and construction consultants needed for their home projects. > I am always thrilled to hear from you with a new garden 'assignment' :) **★★★★★ — HU-433111385, Jan. 2021** > Karen was involved with me on a few High end Custom Home projects in Los Altos Hills, Palo Alto and Los Altos area. She is simply the BEST. She has the vision as soon as she walks the Project and Spot-on. I truly believe homes sell more because of Karen's design and creativity. > > Dan A. > Los Altos, CA **Comment from Karen Aitken and Associates:** > Thank you Dan. It has been such a pleasure to be called upon to work on plans with you over the years. > The beautiful homes that you build are the Gems of the Bay Area. **★★★★★ — luckygirl24, Jan. 2021** > I feel grateful to have had Karen serve as the landscape architect for our new build. Karen and team were well versed in dealing with the city and were able to help us get our plans approved smoothly. Although I came into the process unable to articulate what I wanted from our front and back yards, Karen was able to create a design that was much better than what I would ever have envisioned. Her deep experience and expertise is so evident when working with her, and she is truly talented in the vision she is able to create over a blank slate. I was impressed to see her consider things like what the focal point from our family room window would be, or that we might enjoy a sitting area that overlooked the pretty back view of our house. Karen was also very helpful with questions and things that popped up during the actual implementation of our landscaping. **Comment from Karen Aitken and Associates:** > Thank you for your recommendation E. :) It has been such a pleasure to plan your new gardens with you. I hope that your family will enjoy watching your trees grow over the years\> **★★★★★ — Ken Orr, Jan. 2021** > Karen is a fantastic designer! She and her team iterated with us to turn our blank slate of a back yard into a classic, elegant escape. Karen was a joy to work with, and really listened to what we were after. She turned those thoughts and ideas into a design that utilized the space well, both functionally and aesthetically. Karen also has a deep knowledge of plants, and was easily able to translate the colors and look we were going for into plants that would thrive in our climate. We liked Karen's work for our backyard so much, that we just used her again to redo our front yard. > > Karen is an absolute top notch landscape architect and designer, and I couldn't recommend her more highly! **Comment from Karen Aitken and Associates:** > Thank you for your kind recommendation Ken. A few months ago, as I knocked at your front door, I heard the splashing and laughing of children in your new pool. I was grinning from ear to ear, knowing that your family was now truly enjoying your garden. **★★★★★ — Norm, Jan. 2021** > I have been working with Karen for at least 25 years. My main hobby is gardening, so I think I know a few things about plants, BUT as to design I'm pathetic. > > Karen has a lot of great design ideas, in addition to plants that may have not occurred to me. Also, infrastructure: should I use a path of pavers? Flagstone? Gravel? The list goes on and on. > > My most recent project with Karen was redoing a portion of my yard as a result of a major remodel, with a lot of contractors driving over everything and digging lines everywhere. Karen helped with some specific problem areas: what plant can be used to soften a "rude" house corner right by the driveway entry? Is there a way to fit in a bigger deck? How can I use hardscape to direct visitors to the entry door, instead of the kitchen? > > I'd add some photos, but it's winter now and the little plants don't look that impressive...yet. **Comment from Karen Aitken and Associates:** > It has been such a joy to be called upon by you over the years, to meet at your piece of Heaven in the redwoods. You know more about plants than just about anyone. Debating perfect choices has been just one of the many fond memories I have, in creating your garden with you over the years. Thank you Norm! **★★★★★ — gmilt007, Jan. 2021** > Karen is great to work with. She walked the 1/2 acre property with me to best understand what I was looking for in a landscape plan. Karen provided great suggestions based on experience and whats best based on the layout of my property. This included plant positioning based on sunlight for a vegetable and floral garden, grapevines and fruit trees. > > The architecture turned out amazing! > > Highly recommend Karen Aitken and Associates. > > Warm Regards. > Greg **Comment from Karen Aitken and Associates:** > Thank you Greg. It's been such a pleasure working with you on your garden, becoming friends in the process:)) ## Selected projects - [Contemporary Entertainment Garden](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-entertainment-garden-pj-vj~7015216) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 22 - [Coastal Paradise](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/coastal-paradise-pj-vj~6982148) - Location: Los Altos, CA - Photos: 18 - [Los Gatos Pollinator Garden](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-gatos-pollinator-garden-pj-vj~6992174) - Location: Palo Alto, CA - Photos: 18 - Description: Renovation of a a 50 year old garden to match a contemporary remodel of the home. We designed a court yard at the entry and a backyard sanctuary with terraced garden rooms. Included is an olive lavender grove, a hummingbird/butterfly garden, spa, fire pit, outdoor kitchen with dining patio, and deck overlooking the garden. Use of drought tolerant plants was a top priority. - [Contemporary Transitional Garden](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-transitional-garden-pj-vj~6998185) - Location: Los Gatos, CA - Photos: 18 - [Monte Sereno Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/monte-sereno-estate-pj-vj~7005576) - Location: Monte Sereno, CA - Photos: 15 - [Meditation Garden](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/meditation-garden-pj-vj~7307729) - Location: Morgan Hill, CA - Photos: 11 - [Modern Outdoor Living](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-outdoor-living-pj-vj~7310562) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - Description: Photographs Taken By Peter Lyons - [Lake Side Rose Garden](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-side-rose-garden-pj-vj~6988792) - Location: San Martin, CA - Photos: 15 - [Los Altos Hills Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-altos-hills-estate-pj-vj~5931588) - Location: Los Altos Hills, CA - Photos: 15 - Description: \* Photography & Video by Anthony Halawa at Deleon Realty https://deleonrealty.com/property/25621-vinedo-lane-los-altos-hills/\#DRphotos - [English Garden in the Bay Area](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/english-garden-in-the-bay-area-pj-vj~3884998) - Location: Morgan Hill, CA - Photos: 15 - Description: Landscape Architectural Design: Karen Aitken & Associates Landscape Installation: GREENSTREAK LANDSCAPE Photography by Brent Bear - [Portola Valley Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/portola-valley-estate-pj-vj~4968974) - Location: Portola Valley, CA - Photos: 17 - Description: Landscape Architectural Design: Karen Aitken & Associates Landscape Installation: SALIZAR CUSTOM CONCEPTS - [Modern Classic](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-classic-pj-vj~6643995) - Location: Atherton, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: General Contractor: Natalie Forood Landscape Contractor: Leo-Michael Anshutz - [Creek Side Garden](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/creek-side-garden-pj-vj~7306910) - Location: Morgan Hill, CA - Photos: 17 - [California Craftsman Hilltop Garden](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/california-craftsman-hilltop-garden-pj-vj~565659) - Location: Gilroy, CA - Photos: 24 - Description: Situated upon several acres of a golden California hilltop, this estate looks down upon the south Santa Clara Valley and beyond to the Salinas Valley. With the Owners’ love of the Craftsman Bungalow style, this home is filled with Greene & Greene inspired details both inside and out. The gardens have been developed in phases, with a recent construction of a pool house, outdoor kitchen, water fall, and fire pit overlooking a lavender garden and the valley views beyond. Landscape Architectural Des… - [Country Golf Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/country-golf-retreat-pj-vj~6988691) - Location: Gilroy, CA - Photos: 14 - Description: Swim, golf, or ride horses at this beautiful private residential country club. - [Modern Landscape 3D Rendering](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-landscape-3d-rendering-pj-vj~7244521) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 10 - [Modern Mediterranean Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-mediterranean-design-pj-vj~5605515) - Location: Los Altos Hills, CA - Photos: 9 - [Modern Mediterranean Installation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-mediterranean-installation-pj-vj~6650719) - Location: Los Altos, CA - Photos: 11 - [Coastal Paradise Before & After](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/coastal-paradise-before-and-after-pj-vj~7260592) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 18 - [California Classic Garden Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/california-classic-garden-retreat-pj-vj~565683) - Location: Los Altos Hills, CA - Photos: 20 - Description: This homeowners’ love of gardening and Mediterranean architectural is apparent in every detail of this California hillside garden. Rather than the traditional front yard lawn, a rustic wright iron gate and classic stone fountain welcomes guests into the entry courtyard. The entry colonnade opens upon a second courtyard. This is truly reminiscent of old Spain, with deep overhanging eaves and fireplace. This a perfect gathering place for enjoying a California evening. Travertine is the common grou… [See all 55 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/karen-aitken-and-associates-pfvwus-pf~403510555) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/842636837.m3u8?s=cccad1ba4492a1da8dd65b7b15f056767ca12c89&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, including residential, civic, and commercial spaces throughout Northern and Central California. Our focus is on creating thoughtful, innovative, and environmentally conscious landscapes, particularly drought-tolerant California native designs that attract pollinators. We aim to bring your dream garden to life, tailored to your unique needs and style, from timeless to contemporary. **Do you offer design-only services or full project coordination?** We offer comprehensive landscape architecture services, including both design-only solutions and full project coordination. Our expertise covers everything from initial design consultation and detailed landscape plans to complete project management. This ensures a seamless process from concept to completion, whether you need just the design or full oversight for your residential, civic, or commercial project. **Do you create detailed planting and layout plans?** Absolutely, creating detailed planting and layout plans is a core part of our landscape architecture services. We provide comprehensive landscape plans and drafting services to ensure every element of your garden, from plant selection for drought tolerance to the overall layout, is meticulously designed and documented. This ensures a beautiful, functional, and environmentally conscious outdoor space. **Do you design outdoor living spaces such as patios and outdoor kitchens?** Yes, we specialize in designing inviting outdoor living spaces. Our services include expert patio design and the creation of custom fire pits, which are essential elements for comfortable and functional outdoor areas. We focus on integrating these features seamlessly into your overall landscape design to enhance your enjoyment and extend your living space into the beautiful California outdoors. **Do you design drought-tolerant or sustainable landscapes?** Absolutely, designing drought-tolerant and sustainable landscapes is a key specialization for us. We are passionate about creating environmentally conscious landscapes, particularly using California native plants, to conserve water and attract local wildlife like birds, bees, and butterflies. Our goal is to design beautiful, resilient gardens that thrive in our climate and contribute positively to the environment. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [SHANDS - Chen Way](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/166190285/list/shands-chen-way) — 2 ideas - [SYTWU - Richardson Ave.](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/163846292/list/sytwu-richardson-ave) — 11 ideas - [Lu - Canterbury Crt.](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/160770890/list/lu-canterbury-crt) — 2 ideas - [Yu - Greenbriar Ave.](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/160770814/list/yu-greenbriar-ave) — 1 idea - [PAO-TAI - Oxford Ave.](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/160769972/list/pao-tai-oxford-ave) — 1 idea - [MUSE - Alta Ave.](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/152427176/list/muse-alta-ave) — 2 ideas - [AYER - Blandford Ave.](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/151672401/list/ayer-blandford-ave) — 2 ideas - [SWARTZ - Melinda Circle](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/149628255/list/swartz-melinda-circle) — 1 idea - [HOANG - Cumberland](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/147604745/list/hoang-cumberland) — 13 ideas - [BLANCO - Bridle Ridge](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/146854114/list/blanco-bridle-ridge) — 7 ideas - [PENG - Madonna Way](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/146569217/list/peng-madonna-way) — 27 ideas - [RAMAKRISHNA - Rockefeller Drive](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/146416302/list/ramakrishna-rockefeller-drive) — 2 ideas - [STERZER - Pebble Beach Drive](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/146004918/list/sterzer-pebble-beach-drive) — 3 ideas - [Knee walls](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/145996330/list/knee-walls) — 1 idea - [SCHICK - Mary Alice](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/145995943/list/schick-mary-alice) — 2 ideas - [TOMKINS - Heather Court](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/145987857/list/tomkins-heather-court) — 2 ideas - [McLEAN - Dallas Court](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/145892021/list/mclean-dallas-court) — 9 ideas - [NARAYANAN - Almanor Avenue](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/144891304/list/narayanan-almanor-avenue) — 18 ideas - [Arbors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/28264114/list/arbors) — 42 ideas - [Outdoor Kitchens](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/28484513/list/outdoor-kitchens) — 24 ideas [See all 64 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/karenaitkenassociates) ## Community Q&A **Q: what is the path made of?** *(in Photo Questions)* What is the path made out of A: This path is made of gold fines decomposed granite). Sometimes a stabilizer is sprayed on over it to make it less crumbly. **Q: Great house! Wall & Window Colors?** *(in Photo Questions)* Would love to know the exterior wall and window colors. Thanks! A: Thanks for your good question. This home was constructed almost 25 years ago. I'm sorry to say that I don't know the paint colors that were used. **Q: Where did you source the Saltillo tile?** *(in Photo Questions)* I need some that are more red in tone than orange. Thank you A: This saltillo tile is the original, from the house construction of the 1920's. Though, I had good luck using fireclaytile.com to reproduce some tiles for another project. They came close to matching my existing tiles. **Q: Where did you purchase these wood benches?** *(in Photo Questions)* Love your work! A: I bought those benches from Gardenside Teak Furniture. Thanks for your good question. **Q: what is the pool deck material?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Thanks for your question. This pool patio is Arizona Flagtone 'Buckskin'. **Q: what are the color and sizes of the blue tiles you used? pretty** *(in Photo Questions)* i was told to use wet edge for bottom and like the blue satin colors but am having trouble picking a water line tile A: Hi Susan, Those five rows of tile along the pool spillway edge are a glass tile, approx. 3/4" square. I don't know exactly which deep blue color we had selected. Thank you for your question. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-16.*