You’re tired of looking at that bland backyard. You want something that looks incredible but doesn’t eat up your weekends with maintenance.
Here’s what changes when you work with a landscape designer who actually understands Cupertino: your outdoor space becomes the part of your home you’re most proud of. No more apologizing for the landscaping when friends come over. No more stressing about water bills or dead plants.
You get drought-tolerant designs that thrive in our climate. Outdoor entertaining areas that are ready when you are. And a landscape that adds real value to your property while fitting your busy Silicon Valley lifestyle.
Lakota Design Group has been designing custom landscapes in Cupertino and throughout the Bay Area since 1975. Three generations of family ownership, over 5,000 completed projects, and clients ranging from tech executives to growing families.
We’ve seen every type of property challenge Cupertino can throw at a project. Steep slopes, clay soil, water restrictions, HOA requirements—none of it phases us. Our approach combines decades of local knowledge with cutting-edge 3D design technology.
What sets us apart is our commitment to making the process effortless for you. We handle everything from initial design through final installation, with guaranteed start and completion dates that actually mean something.
It starts with an in-person consultation at your property. We listen to what you want, assess what you’re working with, and discuss your timeline and budget. No pressure, just honest conversation about what’s possible.
Next comes the design phase. Using 3D technology, we create realistic visualizations of your new landscape before any work begins. You’ll see exactly what your space will look like, make any adjustments, and approve the final plan.
Then our vetted, licensed contractors handle the installation. Daily updates, clean worksites, and direct oversight from our project manager. We guarantee completion dates because we control the entire process. When it’s done, you get a final walkthrough to ensure everything meets our standards and your expectations.
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Every landscape design is tailored to work with Cupertino’s unique conditions. Drought-tolerant plant selections that thrive in our Mediterranean climate. Hardscaping materials that handle temperature swings. Irrigation systems designed to meet water restrictions while keeping everything healthy.
For busy professionals, we focus on low-maintenance solutions that look high-end. Artificial turf that stays green year-round. Paver patios perfect for entertaining. Outdoor kitchens and fire features that extend your living space. Smart lighting systems that highlight your landscape’s best features.
We understand that Cupertino homeowners want spaces that work for their lifestyle. Whether you’re hosting clients, entertaining friends, or just want a peaceful retreat after long days, every design element serves a purpose. Form and function, working together.
Design costs vary based on project scope and complexity, but here’s how we make it work for you: if you use one of our vetted contractors for installation, your design cost gets refunded since the contractor pays us directly.
For design-only services, costs typically range from $2,000 to $8,000 depending on property size and project complexity. This includes site analysis, 3D renderings, detailed plans, and material specifications. Most clients find the investment pays for itself through better material choices, proper planning, and avoiding costly mistakes during installation.
The real value isn’t just the drawings—it’s having someone who understands Cupertino’s soil conditions, climate challenges, and local regulations guide every decision.
The key is choosing plants that naturally thrive in Cupertino’s Mediterranean climate with minimal water and care. Native California plants like lavender, rosemary, and ornamental grasses are excellent choices. Drought-tolerant perennials such as salvias, catmint, and society garlic provide color without constant maintenance.
For structure and year-round interest, consider olive trees, Mediterranean fan palms, and dwarf citrus trees. Succulents like agaves and sedums work well in sunny spots and require almost no water once established.
The trick is proper plant placement—matching each plant’s water and sun requirements to your specific microclimates. A landscape designer who knows Cupertino can create plant combinations that look lush while using 50% less water than traditional landscaping.
Timeline depends on project scope, but here’s what you can typically expect: design phase takes 2-4 weeks from initial consultation to final approval. This includes site analysis, concept development, 3D renderings, and any revisions.
Installation varies widely—simple projects might take 1-2 weeks, while comprehensive landscape renovations can take 4-8 weeks. Weather, permits, and material availability can affect timing, but experienced contractors build buffer time into their schedules.
We guarantee start and completion dates because we control both design and installation coordination. We don’t move on to other projects mid-stream, and our project manager provides daily updates so you always know where things stand.
Most landscape projects don’t require permits, but certain elements do. Retaining walls over 4 feet, electrical work for lighting, plumbing for irrigation systems, and structures like pergolas or outdoor kitchens typically need permits.
The good news is that experienced landscape contractors handle permit applications and inspections as part of their service. We know Cupertino’s requirements and have relationships with city planners that help move things along smoothly.
For HOA-governed properties, you’ll also need design approval from your homeowners association. Professional landscape plans make this process much easier since they provide the detailed drawings and material specifications HOAs require for approval.
In Cupertino, fall and spring are ideal for most landscape installations. Fall planting (September through November) gives plants time to establish root systems before summer heat, while spring (March through May) provides good growing conditions without extreme temperatures.
Winter can work for hardscaping projects like patios, walkways, and retaining walls since weather doesn’t affect these installations as much. Summer installations are possible but require more intensive watering and care to establish plants successfully.
Smart scheduling also considers your lifestyle—many clients prefer fall installations so they can enjoy their new outdoor spaces during the holidays and have everything established by the following summer entertaining season.
The beauty of properly designed drought-tolerant landscapes is how little maintenance they actually need. During the first year, you’ll water more frequently to help plants establish, then gradually reduce watering as root systems develop.
Once established, most drought-tolerant plants need deep watering only once or twice per month during dry periods. Mulching around plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Annual pruning keeps shrubs shaped and removes dead growth.
The key is starting with the right plant selection and proper soil preparation. Plants suited to your specific conditions will naturally thrive with minimal intervention. A well-designed irrigation system with smart controllers can automate most of the watering, making maintenance nearly effortless.
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