Services

Marin County Landscape Architecture Services

Cara Nelson provides complete landscape design services throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, Peninsula, and North Bay.  Services include site analysis, code compliance research, Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance advice, permit submittal drawings, plant procurement, and consulting on installation. 

  • master planning
  • site planning and analysis
  • Full range landscape design drawings from schematic, to design development, as well as construction documentation
  • Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO) compliant plans
  • Lighting plans including specifications
  • WUI compliant drawings including Vegetation Management Plans (VMP)
  • Grading and drainage research, compliance, and interfacing with engineers
  • Retaining wall design
  • hardscape material selection consultation
  • outdoor living accessory selections and procurement including furniture, pots, fire pits, and shade structures
  • plant procurement and on site placement
  • permitting services including permit submittal drawings
  • project management including construction administration
  • Stormwater Management
  • Drainage Solutions
  • Native plant design
  • Water conservation

Landscape Architect versus Landscape Designer

A landscape architect or landscape designer may provide some of the same services.  However, the differences between a landscape architect and a landscape designer include education, training and licensing as well as types of projects each professional may perform. 

A career in landscape architecture requires a specialized degree.  The rigorous landscape architecture curriculum encompasses design principles, horticulture, site planning, and environmental science.

In California, landscape architects are required to be licensed by the state. The licensing process involves passing the Landscape Architect Registration Examination and meeting specific educational and experience requirements. Licensing ensures that landscape architects possess the knowledge and skills necessary to protect consumers as well as public health and safety. 

In contrast, a landscape designer is not required to be licensed by the state; anyone may operate as a landscape designer, regardless of their education or experience.  A landscape designer might possess an undergraduate degree, but designers are typically self-taught or learn their skills through on-the-job training.

Cities and Counties Served

Cara’s stellar designs can be found in the following cities and counties:

  • San Mateo County including Menlo Park, Redwood City, San Carlos, San Mateo, Belmont, Hillsborough, Burlingame, Portola Valley and Woodside
  • Santa Clara County including San Jose, Los Gatos, Los Altos Hills, and Saratoga
  • Marin County including Corte Madera and San Anselmo