--- title: "The Land Collaborative — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/the-land-collaborative-pfvwus-pf~973723538 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~973723538.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "The Land Collaborative" category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/9dc39c58020b95dc_0451-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "26 Hamilton Drive, Suite A, Novato, California 94949, United States" latitude: 38.0618 longitude: -122.5404 phone: "(415) 819-5263" website: http://thelandcollaborative.com/ rating: 5 review_count: 21 best_of_houzz_awards: 4 followers: 168 last_updated: 2026-11-08 --- # The Land Collaborative Original Houzz profile: [The Land Collaborative](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/the-land-collaborative-pfvwus-pf~973723538) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers - **Location:** Novato, CA - **Serves:** San Rafael, Mill Valley, Larkspur, San Anselmo, Corte Madera, Tiburon, Kentfield, Sausalito, Lucas Valley-Marinwood, Fairfax, City of Sonoma, Greenbrae, Marin County, Sonoma County - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (21 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2015–2018), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - 5 Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves The Land Collaborative is a dual-licensed landscape architecture, design, and construction firm based in Marin County, CA. Our projects range from country estates and historical farmhouses to contemporary urban oases. We are known for our ability to listen to and implement our clients’ desires, the high quality of our work, exceptional project management and clear communication throughout the project. We have developed a seamless, client-centered process with a single point of contact from landscape design through construction and maintenance. This greatly simplifies communications throughout the process, enabling us to transform your ideas into an outcome that exceeds your expectations. As a Bay-Friendly certified firm, we stay up-to-date on the most recent concepts in water conservation, including drought tolerant plants and grey water systems. We understand how to work with nature to conserve water, while still creating a landscape that is healthy and beautiful. ### 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 - Gazebo Design & Construction - Outdoor Lighting Design - Deck Design - Project Management - Drafting - Edible Gardens - Custom Bocce Ball Courts - Dog Run Construction - Rooftop Deck Installation ### Areas Served - San Rafael - Mill Valley - Larkspur - San Anselmo - Corte Madera - Tiburon - Kentfield - Sausalito - Lucas Valley-Marinwood - Fairfax - City of Sonoma - Greenbrae - Marin County - Sonoma County ### Typical Job Cost $500,000 - 3 million TLC business model is full service Landscape Master Planning. Taking on projects that are full front to back and larger land planning, design build projects. Every project is unique so please send your questions or request an initial consultation. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | The Land Collaborative | | Address | 26 Hamilton Drive, Suite A, Novato, California 94949, United States | | Phone | (415) 819-5263 | | Website | http://thelandcollaborative.com/ | | License Number | LA: 4691 & CLC: 954204 | | Followers on Houzz | 168 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/thelandcollaborative - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-mcpherson-bb19b76 - Blog — http://thelandcollaborative.com/index.html ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [The Land Collaborative](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/the-land-collaborative-pfvwus-pf~973723538) - **Website:** http://thelandcollaborative.com/ - **Phone:** (415) 819-5263 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Licensed: Landscape Architect & Landscape Contractor (C-27) - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2015–2018), for Service. **Affiliations** - [American Society of Landscape Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/american-society-of-landscape-architects-pfvwus-pf~2014062207) - [California Landscape Contractors Association](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/california-landscape-contractors-association-pfvwus-pf~127371204) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 21 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Sue Powers, Sept. 2017** > We could not have been more pleased with the backyardspa and landscaping project by TLC. They managed every aspect of the project - design, demolition, spa construction, lighting, hard scape and landscape installation, irrigation, and project management. Best of all the initial bid and contract was the final price; no surprises or change orders! They are professional, have attention to details, and are committed to customer satisfaction. They totally transformed our backyard. **Comment from The Land Collaborative:** > Thanks for the review Sue! It was great to work with you and we're glad you are pleased with final product. We'll see you soon for your garden maintenance program! **★★★★★ — Peter Hekemian, Dec. 2016** > We used TLC for a backyard redo. They had great ideas, did what they said they would, delivered ontime, and actually cared about the project as though it were their own. I would definitely recommend them. **Comment from The Land Collaborative:** > Thanks for the review Peter. We're glad we could help you out and very pleased that you are happy. We hope the garden is treating you and your family well. **★★★★★ — User, Dec. 2016** > I am a high end swimming pool contractor and have worked with Brett, Brian and TLC for many years. Their projects are always designed intelligently, well budgeted and practical. Their construction abilities are top notch. I highly recommend The Land Collaborative for landscape and pool design/construction. **Comment from The Land Collaborative:** > Thanks Lee. Looking forward to kicking off another one soon! **★★★★★ — kayvanmalek, Dec. 2016** > Brett and his crew provide both excellent installation and maintenance. Their communication pre, during and post project should be an industry standard. Billing is precise and throughout the build of a new home was the only component that did not come in above the estimate provided. TLC's hands one crew are respectful, polite, efficient and keep a clean job site. I would be happy to provide a personal reference for their work in person or over the phone to any potential clients. **Comment from The Land Collaborative:** > Thanks for the kind words Kayvan. We look forward to our continuing services with you and wish you the best for the Holidays. > > TLC **★★★★★ — cbviii, March 2016** > As a general contractor we have used TLC for many landscaping projects; both directly and indirectly. It is easy to recommend them as a design-build solution because they listen well to their clients and respond with a design that attempts to incorporate their client's goals and aesthetics. They also do a really great job on the construction side and respect the neighborhood as well. **★★★★★ — ruthbanez, March 2016** > Very professional and bright inspiring ideas every step of the way. Brett has years of experience and it shows. The project moved along smoothly and we were very happy with the finished project. Exactly what we envisioned! **★★★★★ — dhindley, March 2016** > We hired Brett and TLC in October 2015 and they are amazing! > > We were introduced by our GC after a first landscaper flaked and stopped responding. TLC jumped in and gave us first class treatment through the entire process. Our project was entirely new construction on 5300 sq ft lot. Scope included grading, drainage, sump pump, driveway/sidewalk, fencing, pathways, bluestone bench/wall, irrigation, trees and planting. We think it looks beautiful and everyone that passes by compliments the work. Some of the things that stood out: > > 1\. Design eye. Landscape design had been afterthought in our project and it showed on the plans. TLC picked up those plans and with their design-build experience were able to add the tweaks and additions to make the entire project work together cohesively. Everyone compliments how great it looks. > > 2\. Thoughtful input. They do not just build what is planned or give you the response you want to hear. They give you all the information and context to let you make the best decision. They are not just interested in moving onto the next project but getting this one right. > > 3\. Constant communication. I never wondered what was going on or what was next. They kept us very in the loop for plans, schedules, billing, etc. Everything was very clear, organized and timely. > > 4\. Crew. The crew was great. Incredibly hard workers, respectful, timely. Great communication between Brett/Brian and crew on the ground. > > 5\. Neighbor maintenance. We live in relatively close quarters with neighbors on both sides and Brett went above and beyond in helping me maintain good relations. This included several meeting and phone calls and some design/scope changes to address their concerns. > > Bottom line - I consider myself incredibly lucky to have been introduced to TLC and that they were able to work on our project. I recommended them to my friend who has a large project and he hired them as well. If you want your project to look like it was done with care and attention to detail you should talk to TLC and get on their calendar - I will never hire another landscape architect/contractor. **★★★★★ — lisaleeb, March 2016** > TLC is wonderful. We hired them to design a plan that would complement, fill in and complete our existing landscape. Brett and Brian were so flexible, accommodating and just great guys to work with. Their crew was equally as great. They were efficient and always left the site clean. TLC did a fabulous job and we are thrilled with the final result! **★★★★★ — laurie3282, Nov. 2015** > I've spent many years in the construction industry and come across a lot of different architects, engineers, builders, subcontractors etc. Working with TLC has always been great. Brett and Brian are very professional and personable. They are clear communicators with others that they work with including their own crew. They've recently completed multiple jobs with us and performed well. We plan on continuing to use TLC into the future. **★★★★★ — paul\_whitehead4, Oct. 2015** > The Land Collaborative's unique approach of combining design, planning, and full implementation allowed our project to move from concept to completion efficiently and with the exact outcome we hoped for. Brian and Brett were creative, listened well, and had great ideas to control cost and deliver a high quality outcome. With any project, you run into challenges and course adjustments. Having design and construction managed through one team meant decisions were quickly made and there were little to no delays due to bringing architects and contractors together. The outcome of our project was exactly what we wanted, will last through time due the the high quality work, and add value to our home. We would definitely work with TLC again should future needs arise. **★★★★★ — laudoug1948, Feb. 2015** > The Land Collaborative (TLC), a landscape architecture/design company, did a total renovation of our yard- front, back, two sides. They designed and built a large deck, a pergola, new fencing, terraced the back yard and put in gravel pathways and steps between the flower beds. They also put in two grass areas. > > Brett McPherson and Brian Klein incorporated all aspects of landscaping, including drainage, irrigation, and very beautiful plantings. They were always available to discuss any changes we wanted to make. Once we decided on a budget, their billing process was very clear, and there were no hidden costs. > They were very professional and courteous. Their crew, who has been with them for many years, was always on time, worked hard, and was respectful to the homeowners. Brett and Brian aways commended them on their good work, and it was obvious in the quality of their work that there was a mutual respect between employer/employee. We highly recommend The Land Collaborative. **★★★★★ — alisadat, Jan. 2015** > We hired TLC (Brett & Brian) to design and remodel our backyard. While we wanted an adult play area, we have small children and a dog so the design considerations had to balance all 3 needs. The result has been an amazing backyard that we love to spend time in. TLC worked with us on making the project fit within the budget. While there can always be unexpected costs during a remodel (some had been called out as risk), all-in-all, we were prepared and trusted TLC's advice & options provided. We did uncover some issues underneath the 40yr old concrete that made us pull in some Phase II items to Phase I. It made more sense to do then patching and postponing. The project was amazingly completed on time with exception of very minor touch-up type work that TLC stayed on top of until completion. Brett & Brian used subcontractors that were also extremely professional and did a great job. > > We would use TLC - Brett & Brian - on another job (soon). **Comment from The Land Collaborative:** > Thanks again for the great review! We're looking forward to getting started on Phase II next week! > > TLC ## Selected projects - [Top of the Hill Contemporary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/top-of-the-hill-contemporary-pj-vj~443737) - Location: Sonoma, CA - Photos: 13 - Description: This flat-roof wine country home had an expansive yard with a spectacular view of Sonoma Valley. Although the property had lovely, mature oak trees, the remaining landscaping needed updating. Its new owner desired an outdoor living environment that invited leisure and entertaining, while taking advantage of the hilltop location. The Land Collaborative replaced the entire front and back yard, except for the native oak trees, resulting in landscaping that showcases this unique property and its vie… - [Wright Ranch Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wright-ranch-estate-pj-vj~1721171) - Location: Healdsburg, CA - Photos: 9 - Description: This newly constructed family farmhouse and barn is nestled into a 113-acre property in the Chalk Hill wine appellation of Healdsburg. Originally part of Wright Ranch, the surrounding landscape evokes a feeling of old California. The new farmhouse engages the natural landscape on all sides, offering a true indoor-outdoor living experience. Bluestone terraces provide space for outdoor dining and lounging as they navigate the slope down to an infinity pool. The view over the pool looks out towards… - [Mill Valley Modern](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mill-valley-modern-pj-vj~2514151) - Location: Mill Valley, CA - Photos: 8 - Description: Tucked into the hillside, this modern garden offers a series of terraced outdoor experiences for family enjoyment. Complimenting the architecture and oriented toward sweeping views of San Francisco, each terrace provides a unique perspective of the property. The front sloped deck, wrapped with the contemporary forms of Cape Rush plantings, provides a cozy sitting area with water views. Behind the house, the main floor opens into a series of outdoor rooms including a fire pit lounge, dining area… - [Kitchen Garden Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchen-garden-renovation-pj-vj~2215884) - Location: Sonoma, CA - Photos: 8 - Description: Hosting a fun, young family, this garden has been renovated to provide joy for culinary enthusiasts and children alike! This hillside property is oriented toward unparalleled views of Sausalito and San Francisco. Stepping down the grade with terraced outdoor spaces, the garden has been renovated with contemporary touches of stone and Ipe hardwood to echo the architecture of the house. With the removal of several pyrophytic trees in the front garden, an opportunity for a lounge area oriented towa… - [Marin Family Living](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/marin-family-living-pj-vj~2139637) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - Description: Adjacent to open space, the rear of this Marin suburban home was underutilized for this active family of four. The design weaves together a seamless series of family friendly elements - a swimming pool, pool house and entertainment deck with outdoor kitchen and fire pit. Precise tree work opened views to the hills beyond, transforming the garden into a true view lot. Contemporary materials like Ipe decking, colored concrete paving and board form concrete retaining walls are used to detail the sp… - [Stinson Beach Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/stinson-beach-retreat-pj-vj~2711590) - Location: Stinson Beach, CA - Photos: 8 - Description: Located on a lagoon lot in the private Seadrift housing community of Stinson Beach, this vacation getaway garden was remodeled to meet the Client inspiration of a uniquely designed spa experience. Building on a 20-year relationship with this repeat Client, TLC worked with collaborators to incorporate a large therapy hot tub oriented for views down the lagoon and up to Mt. Tamalpais. The hot tub drops down to a lower deck creating a cozy nook to enjoy a firepit protected from the coastal winds. B… - [Stone Barn Farm](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/stone-barn-farm-pj-vj~7385451) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 8 - Description: The newly built single-story farmhouse and complimentary landscape improvements on this 4.5-acre property are expertly stitched into the historical fabric of the estate. Established elements on site include a historic stone barn erected in 1896, as well as, a working dry farm vineyard and Olive grove. Enhancements along the street frontage incorporate a rhythm of freestanding stone walls built by local artisans, custom wood gates and ornamental fencing. The front courtyard offers stone patios an… - [Mt. Tamalpais Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mt-tamalpais-cottage-pj-vj~527793) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 8 - Description: Cradled by Mount Tamalpais, this classic Mill Valley property has been lovingly renovated to provide quality outdoor experiences for entertaining and relaxation. With unique outdoor opportunities on both the front and back sides of the house, one with generous views of San Francisco and the other with the unusual potential for flat usable area, this property offers the best of both worlds for Marin hillside living. A deck off of the great room offers an easy connection to a fire pit lounge and o… - [Sonoma Green Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sonoma-green-design-pj-vj~7385445) - Location: Sonoma, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: Located east of the renowned Sonoma plaza, this 1.3-acre parcel sits adjacent to the historic Bartholomew Park vineyards. Green building inspired, both the newly constructed home and guest cottage have an integrated living roof. The landscape design compliments the contemporary vernacular of the architecture and is driven by the Client’s artistic nature. The arrival to the property navigates through a custom Corten steel auto gate with gabion stone walls. The rear of the property incorporates an… - [Sonoma Farmhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sonoma-farmhouse-pj-vj~873980) - Location: Sonoma, CA - Photos: 7 - Description: Located on the walkable east side of Sonoma proper, this charmingly renovated farmhouse is now complete with the addition of a swimming pool. A lawn and planting area were removed in the rear garden to include what seemed like an impossible feat on a compact lot, space for a swimming pool and integrated hot tub. Limestone was used to create an integrated water feature wall at the rear of the pool, layering in planting to provide visual interest and softening the rear fence. This dark bottomed po… [See all 10 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/the-land-collaborative-pfvwus-pf~973723538) ## Ideabooks - [Trellis](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/22336761/list/trellis) — 6 ideas - [Material combinations](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/32735033/list/material-combinations) — 8 ideas - [Pools and Spas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/26763859/list/pools-and-spas) — 3 ideas - [Pool Finishes](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/34486591/list/pool-finishes) — 4 ideas - [Drought Tolerant](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/22099219/list/drought-tolerant) — 3 ideas - [Sloped walking surfaces](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/22336697/list/sloped-walking-surfaces) — 2 ideas - [Veggie Gardens](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/32735042/list/veggie-gardens) — 3 ideas - [French garden styles](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/24777098/list/french-garden-styles) — 3 ideas - [Drainage concepts](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/24777126/list/drainage-concepts) — 1 idea - [Garden jewelry](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/22158030/list/garden-jewelry) — 1 idea [See all 10 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/tlcdesignbuild) ## Community Q&A **Q: What is the material on the top of the wooden structure?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi there, Thanks for the inquiry. This a 1 of 2 trellises designed (along with a structural engineer) and constructed by TLC for shade above a pool terrace. The trellis is made of 6x6 and 6x8 Rough Redwood and attached with structural / ornamental connections. The material on top of the trellis is shade fabric that you can get from just about any local home improvement store. Be certain to attach it to the top of the trellis with proper connections (as attached in the attached images) so that the wind can't catch the fabric and cause it to tear. These are screwed down thru galvanized metal flat bar that has the fabric stretched and folder around it. The lifespan on this should be ~10 years. Hope this helps. Best of luck, TLC **Q: QUEL REVETEMENT POUR LA TERRASSE?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: This is an integral color concrete paving with a light acid wash finish. The color is by the Scofield company. Color: Limestone C-20. Hope that helps! **Q: any idea what doors were used for this project?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Good evening, Thanks for the inquiry. The doors are Weiland doors. They were custom designed and made for the specs on this project. The model is, "Liftslide". The doors cost ~30k plus installation. The doors turned out great with the seamless threshold condition and the indoor outdoor space. Hope that helps! TLC **Q: Flooring** *(in Photo Questions)* What kind of flooring is this? A: This is a Full range Bluestone with a natural cleft finish (1" thick on mortar, 4" of concrete and compacted base rock) . The pattern is custom and the color is specified for this project without rusts or lilacs. There is a finished (gauged/flamed) edge on the steps. The step treads are what they call 'select blue' which means they are hand selected (and specified) for the amount of true color. Let us know if we can be of any assistance with your project or if you have additional questions. Good luck and happy 'Houzzing!' Thanks, TLC **Q: Type of stone?** *(in Photo Questions)* What type of stone was used along the stairway? Where can it be purchased? How difficult is it to shape? Can a chisel and hand sledge be used? Thanks A: Thanks for the inquiry. The stone wall featured in this image is called 'Syar Stone' named after the local quarry in Napa, CA. Its is available at other local vendors as well but sometimes with different names. For an experienced mason, this is relatively good rock to shape especially if you hand pick for the angular rock at the quarry. Typical masonry tools will work great. Hope that helps! **Q: Planter box** *(in Photo Questions)* What's the distance between planters? 2 feet? 3 feet? Thank you! A: The distance between these planters is 3'. The main center path from the gate is 5'. In general, 3' is a comfortable path width for functionally working the beds. We had the space for it on this job which was great. For a smaller area 24-30" also works but ideally not less than that. Hope that helps. Happy gardening! TLC --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-11-08.*