March 28, 2025

The East Bay is a dynamic hub of creative landscape architecture where innovative design meets environmental stewardship. From award-winning urban design practices to firms specializing in custom residential gardens, these companies bring a fresh perspective to transforming outdoor spaces. Whether you’re seeking to enhance a community park or create a personalized garden retreat, the following eight firms represent the best in the region.

1. EINWILLERKUEHL

Based in Oakland, EinwillerKuehl is an award-winning landscape architecture and urban design firm renowned for its collaborative approach and site-specific designs. Their work consistently reflects a deep sensitivity to the unique characteristics of each location.

2. SHADES OF GREEN

Serving the Bay Area and beyond, SHADES OF GREEN is a full-service landscape architecture firm that creates innovative and sustainable landscapes. Their projects range from intimate residential gardens to expansive, large-scale developments that demonstrate a commitment to environmental best practices.

3. PLANTED EARTH DESIGN & BUILD

Established in Berkeley, Planted Earth specializes in custom residential landscape design, construction, and garden care. They focus on seamlessly integrating outdoor spaces with the living areas of homes, ensuring that each design complements and enhances everyday life.

4. SARAH HERMAN LANDSCAPE DESIGN

With over 15 years of experience, Sarah Herman Landscape Design offers sustainable landscape solutions throughout the East Bay. Their excellence has been recognized with prestigious awards, reflecting their ability to create impactful and environmentally responsible designs.

5. STUDIO M MERGE

Located in San Francisco, Studio M MERGE provides comprehensive services in both architecture and landscape architecture. Their expertise spans master planning, design development, and construction administration, resulting in cohesive projects that elevate urban spaces.

6. PINE HOUSE EDIBLE GARDENS

Pine House Edible Gardens focuses on creating gardens that serve as spaces of opportunity and cultural connection. Their initiatives, such as the Black Sanctuary Gardens in Oakland, highlight a commitment to community engagement and sustainable, edible landscapes.

7. DANIEL NOLAN DESIGN

Specializing in blending lush plantings with minimalist hardscapes, Daniel Nolan Design offers refined landscape design services throughout the Bay Area. Their portfolio includes notable projects like winery landscapes, showcasing an ability to merge aesthetic beauty with functional design.

8. SOFT STUDIO

Based in Oakland, Soft Studio takes an expansive view of landscape design by addressing sustainability, cultural identity, and social justice. Their projects foster personal connections to the land while ensuring that outdoor spaces are both beautiful and inclusive.

These East Bay firms exemplify the region’s innovative spirit and dedication to creating landscapes that are both visually inspiring and environmentally sustainable. Whether you're planning a residential upgrade or a large-scale public project, these professionals are ready to transform your outdoor vision into a living, breathing work of art.