---
title: "Distinctive Design & Management LLC — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/distinctive-design-and-management-llc-pfvwus-pf~505352888
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~505352888.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "Distinctive Design & Management LLC"
category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/644365a7070a6133_8037-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "Mendham, New Jersey, United States"
latitude: 40.7759
longitude: -74.6007
phone: "(973) 518-1879"
website: http://distinctivedesignnj.com
rating: 5
review_count: 18
best_of_houzz_awards: 3
followers: 33
last_updated: 2026-09-23
---

# Distinctive Design & Management LLC

Original Houzz profile: [Distinctive Design & Management LLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/distinctive-design-and-management-llc-pfvwus-pf~505352888)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers
- **Location:** Mendham, NJ
- **Serves:** Bergen Morris Essex Union Monmouth middlesex counties and more. Mendham basking Ridge Westfield chat
- **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (18 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2017–2020), for Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Star Houzzer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 25 Ideabook Saves

Landscape design and build. 

Landscape design enhances a home’s appeal and offers that completeness… that established quality a beautiful home should convey. Since 2002, Joe D'Avi has been offering clients relaxed and pleasurable experiences by patiently designing and developing each property to become functional, enjoyable and beautiful for his clients.

Every property is different. Every curb, terrace, poolscape, garden, or walkway plays a part in creating an environment you can enjoy and take pride in. Distinctive Design & Management listens to the wants and needs of every homeowner and then guides you step by step through the decision process. Our team functions and flows similar to the landscapes we install…Our vision takes root, we water that vision with the design process upon timeline and budget approval the installation process blooms.

Distinctive Design & Management has built lasting and trusting client relationships that our testimonials endorse. Your outdoor environment is alive… growing and changing to suit your family’s needs. Call today to get started.

### Services Provided

- Landscape Design
- Garden Design
- Hardscaping
- Landscape Plans
- Patio Design
- Custom Fire Pits
- Pool Landscaping
- Custom Water Features
- Swimming Pool Design
- Project Management

### Areas Served

- Bergen Morris Essex Union Monmouth middlesex counties and more. Mendham basking Ridge Westfield chat

### Typical Job Cost

$5,000 - 750,000

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | Distinctive Design & Management LLC |
| Address | Mendham, New Jersey, United States |
| Phone | (973) 518-1879 |
| Website | http://distinctivedesignnj.com |
| License Number | 13VH08312800 |
| Followers on Houzz | 33 |

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [Distinctive Design & Management LLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/distinctive-design-and-management-llc-pfvwus-pf~505352888)
- **Website:** http://distinctivedesignnj.com
- **Phone:** (973) 518-1879

## Credentials

- **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2017–2020), for Service.

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 18 reviews**

### Reviews

**★★★★★ — Cat Fears, July 2019**

> Had an awesome experience with Destinctive.
> Joe Dav’i was a pleasure to work with. He was quick to answer any questions I had and address any changes I wanted. Everything was on time and on budget. My driveway and landscaping turned out better than I imagined!! I couldn’t be happier! Definitely recommend!!!

**★★★★★ — Shereen Bernaz, April 2019**

> Distinctive Design did an amazing job!!  We used them to remodel our pool, patio, deck and backyard landscaping.  From start to finish, they were incredibly easy to work with. Joe was supremely professional and a pleasure to deal with. His eye for design impressed us throughout and his team worked harder than anyone we have ever seen. Our neighbor literally stopped us in the street to get their contact details because the quality of their work, the care in craftsmanship, and attention to detail was simply so evident. They showed up everyday despite snow, rain, and frigid temperatures to complete the job ahead of schedule and on budget. On top of that, they were neat, polite, and went above and beyond in every aspect of the job. Joe and his team were fantastic; so much so we already have our next project in the works with them!

**★★★★★ — P Ronco, Feb. 2019**

> Distinctive Design delivered a quality backyard renovation including a multi level patio with planted beds, built in BBQ area, lighting and drainage. The process from design to completion was executed with attention to detail and oversight of all workmanship.   We highly recommend Distinctive Design!

**★★★★★ — Kelly Cicillini, Oct. 2017**

> Joe D’Avi from Distinctive Desgin and Management is the absolute BEST!  From our first meeting to the finished product he was so great and we are beyond pleased with our finished outdoor space.  After interviewing a few different companies for the job we decided to go with Joe from Distinctive. Together with his expertise, we came up with a drawing and a plan for our backyard. We did a custom pool with waterfall and hot tub, outdoor bar and kitchen, fireplace, new patios, outdoor lighting and landacading. Joe handled everything from the beginning to the end. He was here everyday making sure the job was getting done exactly how we both wanted it to. He is a true professional. If you need an outdoor living space big or small, Joe is your guy! You will not be disappointed!

**Comment from Distinctive Design & Management LLC:**

> Thank you! what a wonderful blank slate we had and appreciative clients.  We really appreciate the opportunity to meet you guys, and for allowing us to deliver what we envisioned.   Enjoy that all year round brand new outdoor living space!  Cheers!
>
> Joe D'Avi

**★★★★★ — wdstorey, Sept. 2017**

> Distinctive Design worked with us to create a gorgeous outdoor entertaining space complete with a wood burning fireplace, flat screen TV and an outdoor kitchen. Distinctive Design thought completely out of the box by drawing up a plan that carved out an area for the patio, fireplace and TV that made the space more private and cozy than the standard patio that many people build straight off of their deck.  The stonework and granite countertops are beautiful and the appliances are top of the line. All recommendations made by Distinctive Design. In addition, we engaged them to add lighting to our yard and to do our landscaping. They are professional, responsive and I will continue to use them for any future services that we need and they provide!

**★★★★★ — V Alfonso, Oct. 2016**

> We are in the final stages of our home renovation/addition and our construction manager suggested Joe for landscaping plans.  We met with him at the site and within a few weeks he had color plans for us.  We were very pleased with the recommendations.  We have lots of landscaping to do in front and back and are breaking up the work in phases.  Joe worked with us on making adjustments to keep within a budget for phase 1.  We look forward to phase 2 in the spring to make our backyard come to life.

**Comment from Distinctive Design & Management LLC:**

> Looking forward to the Spring project as well!  Enjoy your beautiful new home!  Cheers-

**★★★★★ — Erica Amato, Oct. 2016**

> We have just completed an entire yard landscape and hardscape project with Joe D'Avi and Distinctive Design.  It was a fantastic experience starting with the initial meetings where he came with many ideas and different products that we weren't thinking of using.  We did our project in 2 phases and I am THRILLED to say that I visually loved it and all my plants and trees have survived some harsh conditions and that led us to be very comfortable in jumping in to Phase 2.  We installed a blue-stone patio with stone walls, stoned grill area and a 6' gas fire pit upon his recommendation that we LOVE.  The unique trees he lined the space with and the contractors that he used we were very happy with.  We would definitely DEFINITELY recommend him to use.  We are very happy with our space and every part of our interaction and follow-up with him.

**Comment from Distinctive Design & Management LLC:**

> Perfect time of year to get your patio & fire-pit project done. I am so thrilled with the finished work, and so happy for your family to enjoy that amazing new space.   Happy Grilling !

**★★★★★ — Sharon S, Oct. 2016**

> When we were built our contemporary home in Chatham, we knew we had to find the right landscape designer who understood exactly what we were hoping to achieve with the exterior of the house. Our builders introduced us to Joe D’Avi and from the very first meeting he brought insight and exciting ideas to the project. He and his team put together a comprehensive and well thought out plan to tie our beautiful interior space seamlessly into our outdoor space. His ideas completely complement the architecture and style of our home. Distinctive Design met every deadline, adhered to  our budget and delivered exactly what we hoped. We have already recommended him to friends and family and begun our second phase with him.

**Comment from Distinctive Design & Management LLC:**

> This was such a great project to be a part of.  The finished results and complete transformation is just breath taking.  I go out of my way on my drive home just to pass by and enjoy the serene/tranquil vibe the yard now omits!  Enjoy the Zen space! Namaste-

**★★★★★ — Eric F, Aug. 2016**

> Joe was a real professional to work with - thorough, flexible, collaborative, and responsive.  He did not rush us through the design phase (and our multiple changes during the process).  The work of Joe and his team was impeccable and the end result exceeded our expectations.  I highly recommend Distinctive Design & Management for outdoor hard-scaping needs.

**★★★★★ — Dita G, Aug. 2016**

> We have just finished addition to our Victorian house with modern feel and needed to create a landscape to go with it. The challenge was our very narrow but deep lot with some drainage issues. Joe was able to deal with it and create a beautiful design from front to back including a driveway. Our favorite is the back patio which is really extension of our living space and where we love to dine as a family or with friends whenever possible.
> Joe was very pleasant to work with. He is very professional and stuck with the schedule. He created design based on our needs and on our lifestyle. I myself love gardening and Joe knowing this created nice vegetable beds and left some space in the yard for me to plant our fruit bushes, herb garden and some smaller plants.
> We absolutely love enjoying our outdoor space.

**★★★★★ — spinglake, June 2016**

> Simply put they are amazing in every aspect whether it was landscape hardscape lighting or our pool we couldn't be happier

**Comment from Distinctive Design & Management LLC:**

> The collaboration of a client that knew exactly what they wanted, and knew what it would take to get there is an absolute winning formula.  This property now belongs in a hard cover book...it is truly magnificent and now a resort.  From conception, that was the goal and our team absolutely delivered...It was a pleasure working with you.   Salute!!

**★★★★★ — michaelmostmd, May 2016**

> Joe contracted the restoration and improvement of our back yard patio and fireplace.  the work was exquisite.  job was done on time and on budget.  He was there overseeing the work regularly and was very responsive to any issues that arose. plan to use him for a bigger project down the road.

**Comment from Distinctive Design & Management LLC:**

> It was a pleasure working with you Michael and we can't wait for the phase 2 next season.  This is one of my favorite before and afters!  Enjoy that amazing fireplace...

## Selected projects

- [Pools & Patios](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pools-and-patios-pj-vj~1685437)
  - Location: Spring Lake, New Jersey
  - Photos: 23
- [Outdoor Kitchens](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/outdoor-kitchens-pj-vj~1685433)
  - Location: Englewood, New Jersey
  - Photos: 20
  - Description: We are lynx and sedona Marvel dealers, incorporating rhe finest of appliances into our custom built kitchens- our grill prices cant be beat!
- [Landscapes](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/landscapes-pj-vj~1685416)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 46
- [Walls, Walkways, Stairs](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/walls-walkways-stairs-pj-vj~1685442)
  - Location: Chatham, New Jersey
  - Photos: 21
- [Before & After](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/before-and-after-pj-vj~1685463)
  - Location: Franklin Lakes, New Jersey
  - Photos: 21
- [Landscape Lighting](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/landscape-lighting-pj-vj~1685455)
  - Location: Orangeburg, New York
  - Photos: 15
- [Master & Site Plans](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/master-and-site-plans-pj-vj~1685466)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 20
- [Solo stove wood burning pits](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/solo-stove-wood-burning-pits-pj-vj~6160697)
  - Location: Florham Park, New Jersey
  - Photos: 7
  - Description: Solo stove dealer- add this to any finished patio space or wood decks. Call or email for pricing
- [Progress photos firepit](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/progress-photos-firepit-pj-vj~6185357)
  - Location: Morristown, New Jersey
  - Photos: 7
  - Description: Add on side yard gravel sitting area , and wood burninf solo stove
- [Nightlife outdoors](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nightlife-outdoors-pj-vj~6185353)
  - Location: Mendham, New Jersey
  - Photos: 6
  - Description: Custom built pool, night lighting, firepits and natural travertine patio.
- [Landscape work](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/landscape-work-pj-vj~6185350)
  - Location: Basking Ridge, New Jersey
  - Photos: 4
- [Backyard dining room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/backyard-dining-room-pj-vj~6160677)
  - Location: Westfield, New Jersey
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: Implemented a homeowners own design custom build new patio retaining walls firebowl and outdoor bar.
- [Farmhouse style modern retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/farmhouse-style-modern-retreat-pj-vj~6160670)
  - Location: Morristown, New Jersey
  - Photos: 6
  - Description: Custom built multiphase project in florham prk/morristown NJ. Yellow cedar privacy style fence and pool with autocover.
- [Landscape lighting low voltage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/landscape-lighting-low-voltage-pj-vj~6160658)
  - Location: Far Hills, New Jersey
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: Landscape lighting adds both a sense of security but also highlights all the beauty that went into the project while we built it. Accent the architecture, frame the entrance points, guide people to your front door safely with path lights.
- [Fire pits](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fire-pits-pj-vj~6160654)
  - Location: Tenafly, New Jersey
  - Photos: 4
  - Description: Custom built firepits and firetables.
- [Custom build home and new landscape](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-build-home-and-new-landscape-pj-vj~6160649)
  - Location: Basking Ridge, New Jersey
  - Photos: 4
  - Description: Custom build on a maximum lot coverage home, coordination with builder and engineers. Outdoor kitchen stone built in seating natural patios and new low voltage lighting.
- [Landscape and patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/landscape-and-patio-pj-vj~6160643)
  - Location: Westfield, New Jersey
  - Photos: 4
  - Description: Custom home and new landscape.
- [In-Progress Landscape Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/in-progress-landscape-design-pj-vj~1703918)
  - Location: Bernards, NJ
  - Photos: 22
- [Fire pits & Fire Places Designs & Construction](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fire-pits-and-fire-places-designs-and-construction-pj-vj~2582937)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 9

[See all 19 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/distinctive-design-and-management-llc-pfvwus-pf~505352888)

## Ideabooks

- [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/65033826/list/wish-list) — 9 ideas

[See all 1 ideabook](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/joedavi)

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*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-23.*