Inspired Landscape Design +
Strategic Construction Guidance
Services
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Core Landscape Design
Custom Landscape Master Plans:
Site-specific layouts that guide your project from concept to completion—designed for comfort, function, and long-term beauty.3D Design Models + Walkthrough Videos:
Photorealistic visuals created with VIP3D software that allow you to explore your design before building begins. I simulate lighting, seasonal shifts, and spatial flow.2D CAD Construction Drawings:
Precise plans ready for contractor bidding, permitting, and HOA submittals.Phased Design Planning:
Flexible layouts that support staged construction aligned with your timeline and budget.Planting, Lighting, and Irrigation Design:
Integrated systems that support water-wise planting, soft evening ambiance, and smart irrigation.Design Audits + Second Opinions:
Clear, constructive feedback for refining existing plans or mid-project course correction. -
Outdoor Living Features
Outdoor Kitchens + BBQ Islands:
Custom layouts with prep space, sinks, refrigeration, and integrated storage.Fireplaces + Fire Pits:
Gas and wood-burning options designed for safety, comfort, and ambiance.Patios + Pavers:
Durable surfaces thoughtfully placed for gathering, circulation, and relaxation.Water Features:
Fountains, streams, and reflective elements that introduce movement and calm.Pergolas + Shade Structures:
Functional and attractive structures that provide daily comfort and visual interest.Lighting + Audio Integration:
Systems that extend your space into the evening with style and ease. -
Fire-Safe (Zone 0) + Sustainable
Zone 0 Design + Defensible Space Planning:
Fire-safe landscapes designed to meet California’s latest regulations while maintaining natural beauty.Permeable Hardscapes + Rain Gardens:
Eco-conscious surfaces that reduce runoff and support healthy drainage.Pollinator + Habitat Gardens:
Spaces designed to support bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial wildlife.
Drought-Tolerant + Native Planting Design:
Plant selections that thrive in San Diego’s climate and help conserve water. -
Family-Centered
The Play & Gather Garden:
Flexible spaces for outdoor games, imaginative play, and everyday connection.Sensory Garden Retreats:
Calming gardens tailored for sensory needs and neurodiverse family members.The Backyard Learning Lab:
Nature-based spaces that encourage hands-on exploration, creativity, and learning.Teen Hangout Havens:
Safe, social zones with fire pits, shade, and casual seating designed for tweens and teens.The Game Night Garden + Alfresco Movie Zones:
Comfortable outdoor spaces built for memory-making, laughter, and family fun. -
Unique + Meaningful
Garden-to-Table Design:
Edible gardens and seasonal planting plans to support homegrown meals and daily connection with nature.Spa + Wellness Features:
Cold plunges, saunas, outdoor showers, and spaces designed for rest and renewal.Sensory + Memory Gardens:
Therapeutic landscapes created in collaboration with caregivers, families, and healthcare professionals.Outdoor Art Curation:
Sculptural features, murals, and kinetic works—often created with local artists.Marketing + Showcase Support:
Photography, video, and presentation support for builders, architects, and public-facing homes.Collaborative:
Some of the above services call for collaboration.. When they do, I may bring in the specialists to assist. These may include artists, wellness consultants, therapists, audio engineers, drone photographers, or specialized craftspeople. I'm also happy to collaborate with professionals you already trust. -
Construction Guidance + Homeowner Advocacy
Contractor Vetting + Bid Review:
Guidance to help compare bids, identify gaps, and make informed decisions.Phased Budget Planning:
Smart planning that aligns design with short-term goals and long-term vision.Communication Support During Construction:
Continued involvement to clarify design intent, reduce friction, and keep progress moving.HOA Drawing & Submittals:
All required drawings, documentation, and visuals are prepared to meet HOA guidelines.
About Steve
With 25+ years of experience in design, building, and project management, I create outdoor spaces that feel personal, practical, and beautifully integrated with how you live. Beyond design, I provide guidance through budgeting, planning, and contractor vetting and selection—helping you avoid common construction missteps and move forward with confidence.
Each project begins with thoughtful conversation and a thorough review of your property’s assets and challenges. Together, we explore your goals, your family’s routines, and how you want to experience your outdoor space. From there, we develop a detailed Project Outline and a curated set of digital Inspiration Boards to help shape a clear and purposeful design direction.
As a San Diego-based landscape designer, my multidisciplinary background includes landscape architecture, furniture design, product development, and construction strategy. My experience includes leading design-focused companies and developing home collections for brands like Nordstrom, Restoration Hardware, and Crate & Barrel. For the past decade, I’ve focused on working with families to create outdoor spaces that are functional, inspiring, and reflective of how they live.
Originally from Long Island, I spent several years in Boston studying Architectural Engineering and Industrial Design while raising my twins. I later made San Diego home, where I bring calm, creative energy to each project—listening closely, collaborating fully, and helping ensure your outdoor space is both beautifully designed and thoughtfully executed.
Fun Facts
I’ve designed 5 of Oprah's "Favorite Things".
I've designed over 400 home collections for Nordstrom, Restoration Hardware, Crate & Barrel, Kate Spade, Pottery Barn, and Swarovski Crystal - both private-label and under my brand, Swing Design.
This gave me the tools to guide clients through every step, assemble the right teams, and keep client priorities at the center of the process.
