You’re not getting another landscape company that promises everything and delivers mediocrity. You’re getting 50 years of proven expertise as a licensed landscaper in Portola Valley, CA.
Your outdoor space transforms into something that actually works with your property’s unique challenges. No more contractors who don’t understand the difference between approved native plants and the discouraged species that can create expensive problems later.
You get guaranteed start and completion dates. Not estimates. Not “weather permitting” excuses. Actual dates you can count on—something most outdoor landscaping company options in Portola Valley, CA simply can’t offer because they don’t have the systems and experience to back it up.
Since 1975, Lakota Design Group has been the outdoor landscaping company Portola Valley, CA residents trust when their property matters. Three generations of Silicon Valley executives—Apple, Yahoo, SF 49ers leadership—have chosen us for a reason.
This isn’t about being the biggest landscape contractor in Portola Valley, CA. It’s about being the most reliable. Over 5,000 completed projects have taught us exactly what works in your microclimate, what meets your strict native plant requirements, and what creates the sophisticated results you expect.
We understand what makes Portola Valley different: wildfire risk management that actually works, water conservation that doesn’t sacrifice beauty, and the aesthetic standards of homeowners who chose this location because they refuse to settle for ordinary.
Your project starts with a real consultation at your property. Not a quick sales pitch—a comprehensive analysis of soil conditions, drainage patterns, sun exposure, existing vegetation, and your specific vision for landscape construction in Portola Valley, CA.
Next comes 3D design that shows you exactly what your finished space will look like. Every plant placement, hardscape element, and lighting feature gets visualized before any work begins. Three free revisions ensure the design matches your vision perfectly, not our convenience.
Construction begins with those guaranteed dates and daily progress updates. Our vetted contractor network handles installation while we manage every detail. You’re not left wondering what’s happening or when it’ll be done—you know, because we tell you.
Ready to get started?
Every landscape company in Portola Valley, CA claims to be full-service. Here’s what that actually includes when you work with professionals who’ve been doing this since 1975.
You get comprehensive site analysis, custom 3D design renderings, detailed construction plans, complete plant and material specifications, and full project management from consultation through final walkthrough. Plus access to our network of pre-vetted contractors who understand Portola Valley’s specific requirements—not just generic Bay Area landscaping.
The native plant expertise isn’t optional here. Portola Valley’s strict indigenous plant guidelines mean using the wrong species creates expensive problems. We know which plants thrive in your microclimate while meeting all local compliance requirements.
Fire-wise landscaping gets handled properly—defensible space planning, fuel load management, and drought-tolerant species selection that reduces water usage and fire risk without making your property look institutional or bare.
Most residential landscape construction in Portola Valley, CA takes 2-6 weeks from start to completion, depending on project scope. We provide guaranteed start and completion dates upfront—not estimates or weather-dependent promises.
The design phase typically requires 2-3 weeks, including comprehensive site analysis, 3D rendering creation, and your requested revisions. Once you approve the design, we schedule construction with specific dates based on project complexity and current workload.
Weather impacts get built into realistic timelines from the start. Our project managers understand Portola Valley’s seasonal patterns and create schedules that account for actual conditions, not wishful thinking. You’ll never wonder when work resumes or when you can start enjoying your transformed outdoor space.
Portola Valley requires only California-native plants, with an extensive list of discouraged species that can crowd out indigenous plants and harm local ecosystems. Many contractors don’t understand these requirements until it’s too late.
Wildfire risk management adds another layer of complexity. Your landscaping must incorporate defensible space principles and fuel reduction strategies. This affects everything from plant selection to irrigation placement to hardscape material choices.
Water conservation regulations are particularly strict here. Projects need drought-tolerant plant selection, efficient irrigation systems, and often include permeable surfaces and rainwater capture. When handled correctly by experienced professionals, these requirements actually enhance property value instead of limiting design options.
Yes, navigating Portola Valley’s approval process is part of our comprehensive project management. We handle necessary permits, HOA submissions, and town approvals so you don’t deal with bureaucratic complexities.
Fifty years of local experience means we know exactly which projects require formal approvals versus standard maintenance guidelines. We understand specific documentation requirements and submission timelines that keep projects on schedule.
For larger projects involving significant hardscaping or structural elements, we coordinate with local engineers and ensure all plans meet both town requirements and HOA standards. This prevents costly delays and revision requests that derail project timelines and budgets.
Plant selection starts with comprehensive soil testing and microclimate analysis of your specific property. Portola Valley has surprising variation in growing conditions—what thrives in one area might struggle elsewhere.
We specify only plants with proven performance records in your exact location. After 5,000+ projects throughout the Bay Area, we know which native species perform best in different soil types, sun exposures, and elevation zones throughout Portola Valley.
Every plant comes with specific care instructions and establishment timelines. Our maintenance recommendations ensure your investment thrives long-term, not just survives the first growing season. This focus on long-term success drives the consistent property value increases our clients experience.
Fire-wise design in Portola Valley requires balancing safety requirements with aesthetic goals. We create defensible space zones using appropriate plant spacing, fuel management, and strategic hardscape placement without making your property look bare or institutional.
Our approach includes fire-resistant native plant selection, fuel breaks created with pathways or patios, and irrigation systems positioned to maintain green zones during dry seasons. We also consider evacuation routes and emergency access in overall design planning.
This isn’t about eliminating vegetation—it’s about smart plant selection and strategic placement. Proper fire-wise landscaping enhances property value while providing safety benefits that insurance companies and local fire departments recommend for Portola Valley properties.
Every project begins with transparent budget discussions and detailed cost breakdowns. We provide itemized estimates separating design costs, materials, labor, and project management fees so you understand exactly where your investment goes.
Our vetted contractor network provides competitive bidding on installation work. If you choose one of our recommended contractors, design costs get credited back since contractors pay us for detailed plans and project management services.
Realistic contingency planning gets built into project budgets from the start. Unexpected site conditions or client-requested changes get handled through clear change order processes—never surprise bills. This approach has earned long-term client relationships and consistent referrals from satisfied homeowners.
Our Client's Reviews
Posted on Josh RubioTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Larry was absolutely fantastic to work with and his design was incredible. He was very detailed, thorough and graciously interactive with our vision, and produced a masterpiece for us. Total dream come true for our project.Posted on Sam PetersTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I hired Lakota Design Group to re-do my Front and Backyard landscaping. During the design process, Larry listened to all of my requirements & incorporated them. He showed me multiple options, and really worked with me to create an amazing design. We used one of his recommended contractors to install our project and Larry managed it all. They did great work, kept our property clean, and finished ahead of their estimated completion date. We are extremely happy with the final product. I strongly recommend Lakota Design Group for your landscape design and construction needs.Posted on Randy D. ThomasTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently hired Lakota Design Group to redesign our front yard. We needed a complete removal and replacement of both our hardscape and plants. Larry did an excellent job on the design. He was very patient with us as we made revisions and provided guidance throughout the process to help us choose a design style that we loved. Larry also recommended a contractor who gave us a reasonable price compared to other bids we received. Larry managed the installation from start to finish, making it effortless on our part. Larry's team completed the installation in just eight days, and the final result is fantastic! I highly recommend Larry and Lakota Design Group for your landscaping needs.Posted on Laura FerranteTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had our front and back yard done by Larry and his team. Larry is very meticulous and detail oriented. He was very patient in taking my landscape ideas and then creating my dream landscape. We used one of his suggested contractors and are extremely happy with the outcome. We really enjoyed having Larry manage the project as we didn’t have to do a thing. Larry always kept us in the loop, supervised the progress, ensuring our satisfaction and meeting the agreed timeline. I would highly recommend Lakota Design Group for their landscape design and contracting services.Posted on Peter CoprivizaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am very happy with Larry’s design and creativity. His videos and graphics really helped the decision process. Jose and the team at Loya’s Landscaping are excellent craftsmen. They are hard workers who kept a clean worksite. I am very satisfied with the end product!
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