Designing Small or Sloped Backyards in California: Make Every Inch Count

California living doesn’t always mean sprawling lawns—and that’s exactly where great design shines. Whether you’re working with a compact urban yard in Piedmont or a terraced hillside in Orinda or Lafayette, smaller outdoor spaces can be transformed into stunning, functional retreats with the right vision.

At Envision Landscape Studio, we specialize in small backyard landscaping and sloped yard design, creating intentional outdoor living areas that blend beauty with purpose. From cozy fire pit lounges to vertical gardens and terraced patios, our team focuses on custom landscape solutions that maximize every square foot.

We love working with homeowners across the East Bay, including Rockridge, Berkeley, and Alamo, to bring out the best in their outdoor environments—whether that means layered planting for privacy, climate-friendly hardscape materials, or transforming a hillside into a multi-level entertaining space.

Ready to reimagine your yard? Let’s Envision the possibilities, together.

When it comes to transforming your outdoor space, partnering with a professional landscape designer can be one of the most impactful decisions you make. Whether you're dreaming of a lush retreat, a lively entertaining space, or a drought-tolerant garden that thrives with minimal upkeep, thoughtful design makes all the difference.

There’s something about the sound of rain that resets the soul — especially here in California, where every drop is a gift. But even when the skies open up, our commitment to sustainable, water-wise landscaping remains essential.

In this post, I share how to design lush, low-water landscapes that support both beauty and biodiversity — from California native plant picks to smart irrigation systems and the magic of rain gardens.

It’s not just about saving water — it’s about embracing design that’s resilient, thoughtful, and built to thrive in every season.

Let’s make the most of every drop. [Read more ➝]

At Envision Landscape Studio, we believe that outdoor spaces are more than just beautiful backdrops — they’re essential to our mental and emotional well-being. In this post, founder and designer May explores how thoughtfully designed gardens can support mental health, from the science behind soil’s mood-boosting properties to the grounding rituals of daily garden care. Whether you're planting with intention or simply sitting in stillness, discover how connecting with your landscape can help you reconnect with yourself.

We’re honored to be featured in Irrigation & Green Industry Magazine! At Envision Landscape Studio, we prioritize sustainable design, smart irrigation, and innovative landscape solutions that enhance outdoor living. This recognition highlights our commitment to creating functional, beautiful, and environmentally responsible spaces.

A well-defined outdoor structure transforms a space from an open yard to a true extension of your home’s architecture. Whether it’s a pergola with strong, elegant beams or a custom shade cover that creates a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, these elements add purpose, style, and function to any landscape. Explore how structural design enhances outdoor living.

Curb appeal is more than just aesthetics—it’s the first impression your home makes. From elegant pathways to layered greenery and architectural accents like pergolas and structured hedging, a well-designed front yard creates a welcoming and lasting impact. Explore how a landscape architect’s perspective can transform your entrance into a statement of beauty and intention.

We’re honored to be featured in Sunset Western Garden: Easy-Care Plantings! This book celebrates thoughtful, low-maintenance landscape design—an approach we embrace in every project. Discover how our work blends structure, sustainability, and effortless beauty.

Say goodbye to traditional lawns and hello to a more sustainable, water-wise landscape. In California’s climate, drought-tolerant plants like manzanita, lavender, and native grasses not only conserve water but also enhance biodiversity and beauty. Discover how replacing your lawn with resilient, low-maintenance plantings can transform your outdoor space into a thriving, eco-friendly retreat.