Merit Landworks

Name: Merit Landworks
Address: Scottsdale, AZ, 85260, United States
Telephone: (480) 390-2986
Rating: 5

25 Reviews

Landscape Contractors

Write a Review

About Us

13x Best of Houzz winner

References available

Locally owned

Scottsdale's Premier Landscape Design Build Contractors- Best of Houzz

Merit Landworks is a firm specializing in creating exterior environments. Our highest level of detail in both the design and construction process makes us a leader in landscape design and implementation. Merit Landworks prides itself on the evolution of our client’s goals from the initial design phases to the construction phases ultimately achieving their vision. Our working experience with our clients makes for a lasting relationship over the lifetime of their exterior environment. As designers, we take pride in understanding our client’s goals and ultimately creating the vision for them. It is important for us to establish lasting relationships with our clients and the evolution of the properties that we are involved. Services include: SITE ANALYSIS SITE PLANNING COMMUNITY COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS RELATED TO EXTERIOR DESIGN OF COMMUNITY HOMES DESIGN GUIDELINES COLOR RENDERINGS AND SKETCHES CAD CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION NATIVE PLANT SALVAGE ASSESSMENTS PLANTING DESIGN OUTDOOR LIVING DESIGN COURTYARD DESIGN GARDEN DESIGN POOL AND SPA DESIGN WATER FEATURE DESIGN LIGHTING DESIGN IRRIGATION DESIGN FURNITURE CONSULTATION COMMUNITY ENTRY FEATURES CONSTRUCTION BUDGETING CONSTRUCTION BIDDING CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION PROJECT MANAGEMENT Merit Landworks specializes in design/build in effort to keep close watch on your project from start to finish. Choosing a design/build firm is essential in creating your environment on a timely manner and within a desired budget. Working with design/builds ensures that your designs are executed through our expertise in contracting from inception to completion. Design/Build Elements: TREE SALVAGE AND REPLANTING CACTUS SALVAGING LANDSCAPE PLANTING BOULDER INSTALLATION COURTYARDS AND GARDENS RAMADA AND SHADE STRUCTURES BARBEQUES AND OUTDOOR KITCHENS DECORATIVE LANDSCAPE POT WATER FEATURES WALLS EXTERIOR LIGHTING PAVERS IRRIGATION FIREPLACE AND FIREPITS SYNTHETIC TURF POOLS AND SPAS Whether it is creating curb appeal or delivering a private resort, Merit Landworks assists in the many facets of the design/build process. We work with a variety of high quality builders and architects to enhance properties to improve the entire exterior of the property.

Awards

Licensed, Bonded and Insured

81 Projects

Inspiration for a modern landscaping in Phoenix.

Business Details

Business Name

Merit Landworks

Phone Number

(480) 390-2986

Website

meritlandworks.com

Address

Scottsdale, AZ 85260

License Number

Please Email for Contact

Followers

106 Followers

Socials

Back to Navigation

Services Provided

Landscape Construction

Hardscaping

Patio Construction

Garden Design

Deck Building

Pergola Construction

Paver Installation

Custom Fire Pits

Pool Landscaping

Outdoor Kitchen Construction

Custom Water Features

Outdoor Lighting Installation

Outdoor Fireplace Construction

Masonry

Swimming Pool Construction

Drought Tolerant Landscaping

Gazebo Design & Construction

Landscape Lighting Installation

Artificial Grass Installation

Planting

Tree Planting

Sod Installation

Irrigation System Installation

Custom Putting Greens

Drip Irrigation Installation

Trellis Construction

Demolition

Sprinkler System Installation

Lawn Care

Gate Installation

Custom Bocce Ball Courts

Arbor Design and Construction

Site Preparation

Irrigation Repair

Tree Removal

Living Walls

Lawn Mowing

Dog Run Construction

Land Clearing

Hedge Trimming

Artificial Living Walls

Lawn Seeding

Stump Grinding

Yard Waste Removal

3D Rendering

Landscape Design

Landscape Plans

Swimming Pool Design

Drafting

Back to Navigation

Areas Served

Phoenix

Scottsdale

Fountain Hills

Paradise Valley

Sedona

Cave Creek

Carefree

Back to Navigation

Credentials

Back to Navigation

Featured Review

J Schaefer

Write a Review

25 Reviews for Merit Landworks

Newest first

5.0|25 reviews

Work Quality

5.0

Communication

5.0

Value

5.0

Mike & Jill Cunningham

We hired Merit Landworks to do the landscaping for our new home and we are so happy we made that decision. Merit truly created a work of art with our landscaping. Everything they did is stunning and at the same time natural and blends well with the surrounding land. They created many special areas with lighting and spectacular plant specimens. We really feel lucky that we found Merit here on Houzz!

June 28, 2025

corkerysteve

To work with a landscape designer who brings vision into focus and manages your project with care, communication and an experienced understanding of the desert environment...is as rare as it is enjoyable. Merit Landworks - Jamie Santiago and his considerate, hardworking team - is truly exceptional. We feel fortunate to have watched artistry and genius merge with practicality. And we were educated, coached and listened to during every step of the journey. Ours was not a big project, but we're confident we received the same honest attention to detail and budget as Merit Landworks' larger 'showcase' jobs. Merit. The word says all anyone needs to know when choosing a desert landscaping company. We could not be more satisfied and thankful without choice. We love our yard. Thank you Jamie!

June 26, 2024

knowlden

If you are in search of a knowledgable and reliable company to create your outdoor space, my husband and I could not recommend Jamie and his team at Merit Landworks more. Jamie and his team completed a full remodel of our backyard including the following: demo of entire yard, cactus removal/relocation, demo of supporting column and installation of new beam, new pool coping and water line tile, construction of custom fire pit, water feature, planters, island for BBQ and pizza oven with gas line, installation of exterior fans, lighting and artificial turf which included a checkerboard pattern among porcelain pavers and selection of all plants. His team was diligent in performing the work, completing it with precision and craftsmanship. We really appreciated their thoughts and insight when questions arose, and the timely and accurate communication. It was a pleasure to have them onsite and we would not hesitate to work with them again. More specifically, Jamie's knowledge of the DC Ranch HOA was key to getting our project approved timely. All of his suggestions were on point. He kept us informed of cost, provided us with a detailed budget and timely invoicing. We also appreciated his management of subs and delivery of materials. He was in constant contact with us, so we were able to pivot quickly if changes were needed. We are thrilled with the final design and could not be happier with how things turned out!

November 15, 2023

J Schaefer

If we could give Merit more stars we would, say 10. We consider ourselves lucky to have worked with Jamie and his team. Jamie is a talented designer, a great listener and fun to work with. He has positive relationships with his suppliers and sub contractors which helps a great deal in today's world. He is honest, a rare find in an overheated renovation market, and he kept an eye on the budget at all times. We are incredibly happy with the result. Renovation during Covid shortages requires a sense of humor, and despite some completely out of anyone's control delays, we were kept informed and knew that they were on it. Both of the crew chiefs on Merit's staff are flexible and have a can do attitude. In fact, we're having them back to work on the front yard.

October 5, 2022

Kimberly Niehaus

The Merit team is absolutely incredible, and I would recommend them wholeheartedly to anyone looking for help with a landscaping project -- both for ideas as well as execution. I started working with Jamie almost two years ago. Our home was newly constructed in 2018, but the builders had simply put in gravel for the majority of the backyard "landscaping". I wasn't really sure exactly what I wanted to do, but Jamie quickly picked up on my style and came up with several ideas for a variety of layouts that he thought may fit the space. Once we agreed on the "big picture", I let Jamie run with the implementation, and he has done an absolutely outstanding job... so much so that two years later, I still have him doing new things to our backyard, and he's landscaped the front yard as well (planted trees, added a walkway to my front door with flowers lining either side, added vines to some walls of the house, etc). If you're looking for a creative landscaper who has extensive knowledge about both building materials and plants/flowers/shrubs, look no further. Thank you, Merit, for all of your hard work making my outside oasis so beautiful and inviting!

September 17, 2021

Thomas Koppelman

Merit Landworks did an incredible job on our landscape project in DC Ranch - Scottsdale. Jamie is very collaborative, but also has very good ideas when you are starting from a clean slate. We had a small space to work with, but maximized the space with both beauty and functionality. In addition, for any post-project maintenance needs I have, Merit is also very responsive and does excellent work. I would highly recommend Merit Landworks for any landscape project you have!

February 22, 2021

Lisa Cohen

Working with Jamie has been absolutely wonderful! I interviewed 7 landscape general contractors and hired Jamie without hesitation. He was prompt for every meeting we had. He quickly and efficiently answered my calls, emails, and texts. The entire process from discussion to demolition to installation was efficient! Jamie's crew is 5 STAR STELLAR. They are super courteous and respectful. My favorite part about working with Jamie was our collaboration time. He listened to my ideas and visions. He is extremely knowledgeable about the HOA hardscape and softscape regulations, planting materials, irrigation, and lighting installation. Sometimes, Jamie offered suggestions about minor changes to our landscape plans. His tweaks turned out fabulous! Additionally, those tweaks ended up saving us money, or we redirected the money to another area of our design to make it our own. Now that the project is complete, we have a beautiful backyard to enjoy. My neighbors have all been curious to see the results. When we walk people through our back yard, every single person seems to be delighted

February 21, 2021

David M.

Outstanding job! Every detail was taken care of. It was so nice to completely trust the work and to see it turn out even better than imagined. Merit Landworks took special interest in what we wanted and stayed within our budget. No surprises. Honest. Reliable. Hardworking. Can’t recommend them enough. You will not be disappointed!!!

February 19, 2021

Ann Griffith

We couldn't be more pleased with our newly refreshed backyard. The experience we had with Merit Landworks was top-notch from beginning to end. Jamie is a true professional who takes pride in delivering quality results. From the initial inquiry to project completion, Jamie listened intently, collaborated, shared his knowledge, and offered ideas. He communicated timely, often and clearly. His crew showed up on time and were extremely courteous. When changes arose, he was flexible, provided guidance, options and clearly communicated impact. There were never any surprises. Project progress was inspected regularly with attention to detail and delivered on time. Jamie is a rare find...an experienced professional who plans the work and works the plan, an excellent communicator, and delivers quality results all while being friendly and fun.

February 23, 2020Last modified:February 23, 2020

Lane Heimsoth

We recently had our backyard landscaping completed by Merit Landworks. We completely re-did our side patio, back patio and backyard. They did a great job, they got the work done on time, they delivered as promised and we are extremely pleased with the work they did and how our yard looks! Not only was the work well done, they provided excellent consultative ideas and recommendations while taking into account what we wanted. Our side and backyard landscaping looks great and we highly recommend Merit Landworks.

December 17, 2019

Carolyn Marston

Appreciate your professional hard working staff in reviving and maintaining my property. Very pleased with the results of Merit Landworks. I would recommend this company to anyone! Thank you Jamie and team.

October 28, 2019

Megan Bopp

Jamie was patient with us during our backyard gut & redo. The end results were outstanding and he worked with our other contractors and vendors every step of the way.

October 16, 2019

Daisy

Jamie at Merit Landworks made my vision come true and more! When we met he came over to the house to go over our project. Once he understood the look I was going for, there was no time wasted.. he started shooting out different ideas and his enthusiasm and energy was very contagious; I was pumped and ready to start this project! Once they broke ground I was kept in the loop every step of the way! Jamie and his crew are professional, courteous and clean. He is extremely talented and trustworthy! Jamie's work has become the focal point of our home! I highly recommend Merit Landworks for any landscape design needs.

September 22, 2017

H T

Working with Jamie was a great experience. His customer service is top notch. He has great ideas and a good eye for design. He was at our home every day his crew was. We met with him regularly during the project and continually reviewed our budget versus actual cost. When he said something was going to be done it was and in the time frame promised. The workmanship is outstanding. We are so happy with our backyard remodel and highly recommend Jamie and Merit Landworks.

September 17, 2017Last modified:September 17, 2017

Gracie and James Lyons

We were lucky to find Merit Landworks on the Houzz site. Jamie took extra time to personally show us previous projects to help create a vision for renovating our backyard. He was very involved throughout the entire process and great at coordinating all the work. His team worked hard in the Arizona heat and were very detail oriented. The craftsmanship was superb. Jamie was very clear in his communications regarding budget and ready with add on's and adjustments as the project continued to come together. Our backyard has been transformed into a beautiful retreat for our entire family to enjoy. We plan to use Jamie again when we are ready to redo the front yard... he is happy to work in phases. We highly recommend Jamie and his team!

July 18, 2017Last modified:July 18, 2017

Adrienne Green

Jamie and Merit Landworks were recommended to me by my neighbor. Jamie was prompt in his reply to me and understood what I wanted and needed in updating my landscape. They repaired irrigation system. They used my existing light fixtures but rewired them to increase efficiency by converting to LED. Also added some additional lights to enhance the effects. Also, Jamie moved some of our existing large rocks to enhance the front landscape while adding some drought resistant plants. The whole project was accomplished in a timely manner and I was always informed on progress and schedule. We are completely satisfied with the work, outcome, and cost of the project. We would hire Jamie again and highly recommend the company.

January 20, 2017Last modified:January 20, 2017

Bob Johns

Working with Jamie at Merit Landworks has been a pleasure. Working long distance can be quite a challenge but Jamie stayed in touch and made it a nice and uncomplicated process. His design skills are spot on, and his understanding and use of materials (both plant materials and hard-scape) is excellent. His crew is professional and highly skilled. The project was finished on time and turned out beautifully. I highly recommend Merit Landworks.

January 10, 2017

sharon_shermanpc

I was lucky enough to find Jamie on line on a Saturday and he was at our home within a couple hours notice! Put together a bid for us in a timely manner and executed the job to perfection! But most importantly stayed right on budget! Whatever Jamie tells you something will cost, that's what it will be! A true professional and great guy to work with!

December 18, 2016

Edward & Leah Vanderslice

We had the opportunity to work with Jamie and Merit Landworks for our new home landscaping. Jamie and the crew were fantastic! He was onsite almost every day overseeing the work and ensuring everything was just right. Jamie also worked closely with us to adjust the design as we evolved our thinking and saw how it was coming together. I would strongly recommend Merit Landworks to anyone looking for beautiful and top quality landscaping.

December 17, 2016

bsf139

Jamie is a professional in all definitions of the word. He has incredible vision and can help bring the wow factor to your front and backyard! He will work with you at every step along the way to make sure you understand and are happy with how the project is progressing. There are no surprises because he is always a step ahead in his communication. His attention to detail is paramount and he and his team care about quality standards from demo to clean up. Most impressively, he takes the time to really get to know his clients. During our job alone, two other neighbors hired Jamie because they were so impressed with his team. Whenever we have a landscaping need, Jamie is our first call.

September 1, 2016

ldalbey

Merit Landworks and its owner Jamie Santiago completed my backyard renovation in North Scottsdale and have my highest recommendation. Jamie allowed me to design-as-we-went and this flexible approach gave me confidence in the process. I also appreciated his meticulous - and I mean meticulous- eye for detail and commitment to quality. We never proceeded to the next step until he was 100% satisfied with the work to date. Furthermore, he personally checked on my project on a daily basis and sometimes multiple times a day. I couldn't be happier with the outcome and with Merit's overall performance.

July 7, 2016

jwiese1

Design and execution of front and back yard landscaping. Jamie was a true professional in every way. He took our ideas and made them better. The work was done in a timely way and his communication was consistent and clear. He followed up when he said he would and the work he did was excellent. I would highly recommend Merit Landworks!

April 20, 2015

lmwatkins

We initially used Jamie Santiago and Merit Landworks in 2013 for a complete re-do of our back yard. What initially started out as a small addition (by another contractor) quickly morphed into a large scale project with removal of existing pavers, BBQ and fire feature, and an overall re-design of the back yard spearheaded by Jamie. From start to finish, he was on site every day supervising and directing the laborers and tradespeople. While the project took a little longer than I had hoped, it was no fault of his - the scope of the project was just that big. Gas lines had to be relocated, a new BBQ island/kitchen was constructed, water lines moved and pool equipment repaired as a result of another contractor's poor workmanship. Even if it was not his responsibility he remained in the loop to ensure his project kept moving forward smoothly. At the end of the day, when the project was finished every person that has seen it has said it looks just like a resort! In fact, the professionalism and vision that he brought to this project are just part of the reason we brought him back last year (2014) to re-do the front yard and courtyard. This project, again was rather extensive in scope with a complete make over of the landscaping as well as adding stone and tile work to the facade. The courtyard saw the removal of a water feature, new pavers, new lighting, construction of an herb garden and shade structure. Again, he nailed it and we could not be happier. And he did something I did not quite expect. As the end of the plant warranty approached for both projects, he contacted us to walk the property and identify areas and plants where replacement would be necessary. Now, that is a true professional. We highly recommend and trust Jamie's work and that of the people that work with him.

March 23, 2015

Supreme Pools

I have worked with Merit Landworks on several landscaping and pool projects. They produce very beautiful and creative designs. It has been a pleasure to help build the pools associated with these designs. Their professionalism extends beyond design to very thoughtful and thorough project management. The customers we have worked with together have been very pleased with the designs, construction process, and final product. I highly recommend Merit Landworks for design services and complete project management and construction.

March 12, 2015

narvell

We hired Merit Landworks for a particularly difficult landscaping and pool renovation that required, in essence, the services of an engineer. Jamie Santiago proved that and more with a creative design that met all our criteria and fit perfectly in what was a challenging space to navigate. His energy and enthusiasm never flagged, nor did his dedication to the project. He was on site throughout using his skill and keen instinct to envision problems before they would occur, then engineer a solution. This enabled us to be continually confident in the management of the project from our home overseas. We have nothing but high praise for him and his excellent team.

March 12, 2015

Back to Navigation

Frequently Asked Questions

We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured, providing you with peace of mind and professional service for all your landscape projects. Our commitment is to deliver high-quality work with complete accountability.

We offer a comprehensive range of landscaping installation services, including planting design, outdoor living areas, courtyards, gardens, pools, spas, water features, and lighting. Our design/build approach covers everything from tree and cactus salvaging to boulder installation, ramadas, outdoor kitchens, pavers, irrigation, fire pits, and synthetic turf, ensuring a complete outdoor transformation.

Yes, we absolutely build retaining walls and a variety of outdoor structures. Our services include masonry, walls, ramadas, shade structures, pergolas, gazebos, outdoor kitchens, and fire pits. We integrate these elements seamlessly into your landscape design to create functional and beautiful outdoor spaces.

Yes, site preparation is a fundamental part of our design/build process. We handle everything from site analysis and planning to demolition and thorough site preparation, ensuring a solid foundation for your new outdoor environment. This meticulous approach guarantees the success and longevity of your project.

Absolutely! Hardscaping is a key component of our expertise. We specialize in installing patios, walkways, and other hardscaping features using high-quality pavers and masonry. Our goal is to create durable and aesthetically pleasing surfaces that enhance the functionality and beauty of your outdoor living space.

FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.

Back to Navigation

23 Ideabooks

Back to Navigation

31 Comments

Commented: What material / color is the kitchen / bar counter top?It is Dekton by Cosentino. Comes in variety of colors. Very durable for inside/outside. Have used it frequently and very happy with it. It is on the higher $ range and very time consuming to cut slabs...

December 2, 2023

Commented: Where did you obtain the large turquoise planters? They are beautiful!The Plant Stand in Phoenix

May 30, 2021

Commented: Where is the pergola from?Custom designed and made here in Phoenix. It is not a kit that comes pre made.

May 6, 2021

Commented: This is gorgeous! what material is the slab on top of the grill?Her desire was to have a marble look w/ light grey streaks. We looked at all types of granite and just didn't find the most desirable. She also wanted smooth finish so leathering was not an option. Yo...

May 17, 2020

Commented: What are the names of the brick and travertine used?Cafe or Walnut. It is turkish travertine. Not from Mexico.

January 27, 2020

Commented: Can you tag our furnitureWe are glad you like our work. Unfortunately, this is intellectual property our company cannot share at this time. Our photographer will be contacting you to discuss the photography you are requesting...

February 23, 2018

Merit Landworks

About Us

Awards

Category

81 Projects

Silverleaf III

Highlands at Canyon Ridge

Pinnacle Peak Vistas

North Scottsdale - Rancho Terrasina

Desert Highlands III

Paradise Valley IV

Business Details

Business Name

Phone Number

Website

Address

License Number

Followers

Socials

Services Provided

Areas Served

Credentials

25 Reviews for Merit Landworks

Frequently Asked Questions

23 Ideabooks

31 Comments

Landscape Contractors near Scottsdale

Professional Categories in Scottsdale

Related Services from Similar Professionals

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US

About Us

Awards

Category

81 Projects

Silverleaf III

Highlands at Canyon Ridge

Pinnacle Peak Vistas

North Scottsdale - Rancho Terrasina

Desert Highlands III

Paradise Valley IV

Business Details

Business Name

Phone Number

Website

Address

License Number

Followers

Socials

Services Provided

Areas Served

Credentials

25 Reviews for Merit Landworks

Frequently Asked Questions

23 Ideabooks

31 Comments

Find Landscapers to Help Get the Job Done

Read Reviews from Scottsdale Homeowners Like You

Easily Contact Trusted Landscapers

Landscape Contractors near Scottsdale

Professional Categories in Scottsdale

Related Services from Similar Professionals

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US