Michael Muro Garden Design

Michael took my sad, disjointed, mess of a garden and transformed it beyond expectations. He cares deeply about his plants, his customers and he delivers.

We had a landscape project that we had been putting off for years and finally hired Michael to design and install our front and side yard. Not only was he incredibly responsive, but he is a plant nerd in the best way, has a wealth of experience, and takes pride in his well-honed craft. The project included a flagstone path/patio, a rock wall, and numerous plantings. He listened well to our ideas and gave us two designs to choose from. From there the installation timeline was quick and he was on site for all of it, making sure that everything went according to plan. We are completing the project in two phases due to seasonal availability of plants. We were very happy with the result of phase 1 and are looking forward to working with Michael again on phase 2. Our only regret is that we didn’t start the project with him sooner, which we would have if we had known it would be this painless. We have already recommended him to our friends who have hired him for their project as well.

Hello, In 2015 I contracted Micheal to completely landscape my front yard. He listened carefully to my ideas and completed my vision. Ten years later my yard is a lush showstopper. This spring (2025) we built a new home in Columbia City for sale. We handed our architect plans to Micheal and he specified just the right trees, shrubs, and flowers to showcase this new construction. This landscaping was the finishing touch. Micheal was prompt, communicative and reasonably priced. Wendy

Michael provided a beautiful design that dramatically enhances our landscape. Not only do the new plantings look attractive during the glorious days of summer, many of them continue to look wonderful even after the leaves of autumn have fallen.....a very pleasing feature that he incorporated very effectively into his creative and sustainable plan.

I reached out to Michael Muro for help with my 70 year old yard. It was completely overgrown, the ground was rock hard with root systems and back yard was even worse with weedy lawn and weedy gravel. I was overwhelmed and didn't know where to start. Flash forward 7 months and I'm sitting here looking at my gorgeous yard and gardens. Michael created wonderful plans and then he and his team made the plans a reality. His creativity and knowledge of plants and trees are stunning. We have had ugly trees removed, healthy trees thinned, soil restored and new garden beds created. The plants Michael brought in are all native to the area, healthy and interesting. His plan shows off the yard, my home and has been designed so that something is always blooming. I could write an entire paragraph just about the perennial garden with rock pathway he created in my back yard.... it is like something out of a fairytale. The final result is exactly what I requested: beautiful, low maintenance and within my budget. Michael is delightful to work with and generous with his extensive knowledge. I could not be happier.

After decades of staring at a mundane front yard and drab driveway in Edmonds, it was time for a landscaping change. My wife and I interviewed a few designers and, as design-challenged individuals, we were a little skeptical of the process. We chose Michael Muro largely based on viewing his website and reviews . . . and he did not disappoint! While we needed an occasional “trust me” comment to move us from schematic, to “what the hell?”, to final product, Michael delivered us an incredible yard and driveway. It is curb appeal on steroids where we still wander out daily to take it all in. Michael was very communicative and professionally managed all aspects of our six-week project with grace. We highly recommend Michael Muro Garden Design for those interested in developing a quality outdoor living space and/or an inviting entrance to your home.

Michael did an amazing job revamping our boring, stoic front and back yards. We picked Michael because we loved the aesthetic of his portfolio and we’re so glad we did! During the design phase, he listened and paid close attention to our needs and design preferences and provided helpful guidance and suggestions. I appreciated that he also created an online board that showed us pictures of all the plants that would be installed in addition to detailed drawings of how all the plants would fit in the space. The installation was swift and efficient. This was a fairly large project that included hardscaping but it only took Michael and his team 2 or 3 days. We were super impressed with the speed of the overhaul and transformation. Michael was here every step of the way to walk us through the changes and provided helpful tips on how to take care of everything. He also agreed to come out every quarter to help make sure everything is growing in as expected. We’re so happy with the work — our yard is looking more beautiful by the day. We highly recommend Michael’s services!

Michael did a fantastic job completely overhauling both our front and back yards. He listened to our needs (increased functional space for kid play, low maintenance but interesting plants, new turf/hardscaping, and weed reduction) and a designed something that met all those needs and more. He was flexible, merging features from the two designs he originally provided and he worked to incorporate some plants we knew liked and many he introduced us to. I appreciated how he thought creatively (and frugally) and convinced us that with better design and improved construction, we could actually reuse our existing retaining wall materials and greatly improve the eye sore that was our former retaining wall (he was right!). We ended up with a space that feels larger, more functional, and far more beautiful while still being low maintenance. Not only was Michael creative and fun to work with, but he was also incredibly professional and timely in his communication and execution of the work. He and his team delivered everything on time and exactly as promised. We are thrilled with the transformation of our yard and can't wait to see how it continues to grow as time goes on!

After our first consultation I knew I wanted to work with Michael. He is very creative and professional. He created two designs for us one for our backyard and one for our front yard and both are looking amazing. I am very happy with the work he did, I trusted him and the entire process went very smoothly. I highly recommend using Michael. He know what is doing and he will help you create your dream project.

Michael was a wonderful help in revamping our yard. It’s beautiful! The plants are interesting and thriving because they are planted in the right conditions. Our large space is also easier to maintain, which was the goal. I loved working with Michael because he listened to me and offered ideas and choices. I highly recommend him for any size garden make over.

Wow, what a package! Professional, creative and delightful. Michael was great to work with. And my garden re-vamp turned out fabulous. So looking forward to the colors of spring that await me!

I took a long time picking a garden designer. I took months doing research and figuring out what was important to me in this project and how we wanted to interact with the space. I hesitated about hiring a garden designer because I had fear of them doing beautiful work and then it just doesn’t fit our aesthetic or our needs. My partner and I both create and value art and we have our own taste which is reflected in our house. Our yard doing that as well was top of importance. What stood out about the reviews I read prior to picking Michael was that each space was a beautiful blend of what fit with the space itself, how it was going to be used, and who lived there. It wasn’t like he had a specialty or cookie cutter approach to design. He does what fits the house and the client. Even though I didn’t design or plant it, it still feels like us. It fulfilled every wish that was on the list. It fits us, the house, and the neighborhood. I’m happy I did my research and I am very much looking forward to working with Michael again. We are already planning our second project early next spring, redoing the front yard.

Michael does lovely landscape design and installation. He’s transformed our yard with a great variety of plants that are drought resistant. Highly recommend. Cathy

Michael is amazing! Micheal is extremely professional, timely and detailed orientated. Our project included re-landscaping the front and side yards. The results were more than we could have asked for and we have received countless comments on how well the project turned out. We wouldn't hesitate to use Michael Muro Garden Design again and we highly recommend him for any landscape project.

Michael is a master in garden design. Give him a blank slate and he will fill it with wonders - both structural and plant life. This is the second time Michael has worked with us - and each time he captured and brought our not well-formed thoughts to reality. For our most recent garden, Michael provided us with three options - variations on a theme. We highlighted the design/plants that "spoke to us" and Michael then put together a final design with plant lists. We have had nothing but rave reviews from friends and family. And, more importantly, the garden is a place that show cases an arching sculpture designed by my husband and had a quiet place for reading and contemplation. As is apparent, we highly recommend Michael.

A few years ago I was visiting my son in the Wallingford area and noticed the beautiful yard of an adjoining neighbor. The house was a Craftsman, the yard quite small, but the overall effect was lovely. And....I have been able over the last few years to see it grow into what it is supposed to be. This year when I decided my yard was truly tired, I gave Michael a call. I happen to live in more of a contemporary home on the Eastside, which presented no problems for him at all. I felt I needed to approach my yard in phases and so we decided to begin with the front yard and will move into the the back yard next year. One of the things I most wanted was to have a more manageable yard on my part. That is exactly what I got. Michael came up with a couple of different design options and a thorough listing of all the plants shown on the plans. By choice I did the shopping myself and working off the plant list made selections and educated myself in the process. The actual planting was done by a crew. He seems to be open to whatever best works. Michael is meticulous, offers options and is very comfortable to be around. I enjoyed the process and am looking forward to next year when we move into the back yard.

We bought our first home in 2020 and wanted to redo the landscaping since it had been pretty neglected before we took ownership. We worked with Michael on this project and he was fantastic. He really listened to our wants and needs and created an interesting and beautiful design that we are thrilled with. The process was easy, and Michael and his team took care of everything except for some of the initial tree removals. Now that the work is completed, we are extremely satisfied and look forward to enjoying our new landscaping for many years to come!

Michael listened to my design ideas for hardscaping, type of plants, and overall look I wanted. He came up a couple of designs, and after we spoke further, he incorporated other ideas, presenting a final design plan. He problem solved issues as they came up always keeping my budget in mind. This project was a total front and back yard grass removal and redo and he and his crew worked diligently to get it done in a short period of time. My new gardens, pathways, and intimate, cozy areas are beautiful, wonderfully convenient, and I’m delighted with the outcome. I’m looking forward to watching my new trees and plants grow and my gardens change as time goes on. I’m happy to say Michael is easy to work with and I highly recommend him. Diane

I've hired Michael to do several projects for me, and he's designing another right now. Michael is great to work with - he's responsive, thoughtful, and meticulous. His vision and intuition really blows me away, but what's even better is his sense for my design preferences, which he always captures so well. I appreciate his presentation of options and his willingness to work collaboratively. I don't think I'll ever tire of the compliments I get for my garden and landscaping, but it's really Michael who should get the credit. I've given his name to friends and neighbors, and I'm happy to give him my strongest endorsement here.

After living in my house for ten years, it was time to improve the usability of the backyard. After seeing a beautiful landscape design in Capitol Hill, I asked for the designer’s name and met with Michael Muro. The initial meeting was a lot of fun and Michael really listened to my ideas. Michael came back with an insightful plan on how to utilize the entire yard, creating two level areas from the previous sloped yard. The juniper beam retaining wall dividing the areas not only addressed the height difference between the two areas but adds the natural element that is needed to create balance with all the pavers. I love the new area now, it is everything I could have hoped for.

We purchased a remodeled craftsman and quickly learned that our "nothing but bumpy poor grass" yard needed help. It was overwhelming to even think about how to design, plan and install both our front and back yards. We met with multiple designers, but one meeting with Michael and we hired him on the spot. Not only is he a joyful, fun person, but he offered us ideas at the first meeting that made us see what our ugly, lumpy yard could be. He provides us with 2 different design options, worked with us on plant and hardscape selections and made sure to meet our goals for a beautiful outdoor space. His love and knowledge of landscaping and plants is bar none. From a brilliant idea for a covered patio bench to how to give us space for our vegetable garden, Michael's vision, creativity and management has given us a front and back yard that is magazine worthy - but not magazine budget. If you get the chance to work with Michael, lucky you.

When we purchased our home, we were excited about finally providing our kids with their first backyard. After two years here, we spent very little time outside. Something was wrong but we didn't know exactly what. During our first meeting with Michael, he put into words what we were feeling and explained why the yard wasn't welcoming. We hired him on the spot. The design process was fantastic. He created two unique designs for both our front yard and backyard. The first one included all the elements of what we thought we wanted - room for large group entertaining with a dramatic focal point. The second was a serene woodland garden with walking paths and a more modest patio for cozy family gatherings. This second plan was what our family truly needed. The demo and build process was smooth. Any unexpected surprises were dealt with quickly and efficiently. Every square inch of our yard was touched and redone. Our driveway and walkways are now beautiful pavers instead of cracked concrete. We have amazing lighting on walkways and stairs, and even spotlights on some of the plants. Speaking of plants, this is where Michael's creative genius shines. His knowledge of plant varieties and their growing conditions is vast. The only way to describe our yard now is a symphony. So many different plants, each beautiful in their own light, coming together to create a delightful harmony. As for the kids, they are outside, playing in the yard daily. If you are struggling with your landscaping, I can't recommend Michael enough. He is incredibly talented.

It was a pleasure to work with Michael! He truly has a passion for garden and landscape design— I learned so much from him and appreciate all of his expertise!

Michael has designed a beautiful retreat for my Ballard home. He is sympathetic to any budget and will work with you regardless. His eye and talent are way beyond anything I could have come up with (even as a Master Gardener), and over the 5 years that my garden has been installed, it continues to surprise and delight.

I had struggled with my front yard for years, and then called Michael. on the recommendation of a family member who had used Michael for a landscaping design. Michael was very thoughtful in his design (a complete do-over of my front yard), providing me with several options. The execution was flawless. And I could not be happier with the result.

Every time I step out of my house I step into the beauty created by Michael Muro. His knowledge of landscape design is vast and he uses it to match what your land can do best with your what your needs are (i.e. retreat, entertaining or both, pet/child friendly, on trend or traditional). He will work within your budget and have his team do as little or as much as you want. We've been creating my landscape over four years now - each year doing a section or sometimes just the design in preparation for the future. It all works together. You don't have to do it all at once! Michael has transformed my yard from blah to beautiful.

Michael is very knowledgeable about plans and design. He came up with very good options for us to consider and executed quickly. He managed expectations and timelines very well. He was a great guide through the entire process and we are quite happy with the end result. He stuck to the budget and managed expectations of costs throughout the entire process, so we were never surprised.

Michael Muro was fantastic to work with. He was able to take my vision and make it a reality. He was patient and interested in my ideas and always willing to give me what I wanted. I had some unique challenges on the site with the grade and the privacy and he and his team were able to address everything and devise creative solutions. His plant ideas were great and brought a modern architectural aspect that I haven't seen in other people's yards. The neighbors and I have all been stunned with the transformation and the value it has added to the house and the neighborhood. Enjoying the yard every day.

I thoroughly enjoyed working with Michael. He was easy to talk to, responsible, creative yet realistic about my budget and the end result is even better than I expected!

Michael is just a joy to be around. He is honest, down to earth, and very creative.My clients used his services professionally and they were very happy, but he is also a good friend.

Michael brings to the landscape table extensive experience in building sustainable gardens in the Pacific Northwest. Our business relationship goes back many years, and I've witnessed him invest himself fully into his projects with compassion and thoughtfulness, providing his clients with amazingly beautiful results. His understanding of composition is outstanding, and he has a thorough knowledge of our regions climates and soils, and what plants are best suited for a particular location. Michael is hard working, creative and really passionate about partnering with his client to create their perfect vision while staying sensitive to meeting budgetary requirements. I've recommended Michael to my own clients, and always the feedback is more than favorable. I highly recommend Michael for his design excellence, project execution and partnership. Plus, he’s a really nice guy!

I have worked with Michael off and on over the years and found him to be friendly, knowledgeable and responsive.