Business Details
24 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Custom Landscaping Solutions
Founded in 2002 by Matthew Baker, GSL Landscaping & Nursery has established itself as a premier design, build, and landscape contracting company in the Capital District. Our team of 10 full-time and 40 seasonal employees combines decades of industry experience with a passion for creating functional, beautiful outdoor spaces. We specialize in custom landscape design and installation, poolside and water feature construction, and comprehensive maintenance services for residential and commercial properties. Our phased planning approach ensures projects align with client budgets while maintaining the highest craftsmanship standards. With a focus on client collaboration, we guide homeowners through every stage of the process, from initial consultation to final walk-through.Our commitment to quality is reflected in our use of premium materials from trusted brands like Cambridge Paving Stones and Belgard. We offer year-round maintenance services including pruning, mulching, and snow removal, ensuring landscapes remain vibrant in every season. Our team's expertise extends to complex terrain challenges, having successfully completed projects on slopes and wooded areas that require innovative grading and drainage solutions. We pride ourselves on fostering long-term relationships with clients through transparent communication and meticulous attention to detail. Our leadership team brings diverse backgrounds in finance, construction, and horticulture, creating a well-rounded approach to landscape design and business operations.
Services
Landscape Design
Hardscape Installation
Poolside Construction
Water Features
Outdoor Lighting
Maintenance Services
Drainage Solutions
Tree Planting
Snow Removal
Pruning & Shearing
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We have 20+ years of experience in residential and commercial landscaping
- Our phased planning approach ensures projects stay within budget
- We offer comprehensive year-round maintenance services
- Our team includes certified landscape designers and construction experts
- We specialize in challenging terrain solutions with innovative drainage systems
What people say
Creative designs
Quality craftsmanship
Professional team
Transformed challenging spaces
Attention to detail
Services
Landscape Design
Our landscape design service creates customized outdoor environments tailored to your property's unique characteristics. We develop master plans that integrate hardscaping, plantings, and functional spaces while considering budget constraints. Our designers work closely with clients to transform visions into detailed plans that enhance property value and usability.
Hardscape Installation
We specialize in premium hardscape installations including patios, walkways, and retaining walls using materials from trusted brands like Cambridge Paving Stones and Belgard. Our expert crews ensure precise installation of natural stone and concrete pavers, creating durable, aesthetically pleasing outdoor living spaces that withstand New York's climate.
Poolside Construction
Our poolside construction service integrates swimming pools seamlessly into outdoor environments. We design and build complete poolscapes featuring custom patios, water features, and surrounding landscapes. From initial grading to final detailing, our team ensures safe, code-compliant installations that maximize enjoyment and safety around water features.
Water Features
We design and install custom water features that enhance outdoor spaces with soothing sounds and visual interest. Our expertise includes ponds, waterfalls, and decorative fountains that complement landscape designs. We ensure proper water circulation and maintenance systems for long-term functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Outdoor Lighting
Our outdoor lighting solutions enhance safety, security, and ambiance through strategic illumination of architectural features and landscape elements. We use energy-efficient LED systems from brands like Unique Lighting and Alliance Lighting to create functional yet artistic nighttime environments that extend outdoor living hours.
People
Matthew Baker
Owner
Founder with over 25 years in landscaping, graduated from UMass Amherst with landscaping expertise. Leads GSL's award-winning team in creating innovative outdoor spaces while maintaining commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Joan Wilmarth
CFO
Brings extensive financial expertise from Witt Caterpillar and equestrian business experience. Manages GSL's financial operations with precision, ensuring business stability while supporting growth and client-focused initiatives.
Marcos Reyes
Operations Manager
Guatemalan immigrant with construction expertise who rose from Hardscape Supervisor to Operations Manager. Oversees daily operations with dedication to quality standards and team leadership in executing complex landscape projects.
Questions
Do you offer design services for landscaping projects?
Yes, we have two in-house designers who create custom landscape plans tailored to your property and preferences.
What brands do you use for materials?
We work with Cambridge Paving Stones, Techo-Bloc, Belgard, and lighting brands like Unique Lighting and Alliance Lighting.
Can changes be made during a project?
Yes, changes require signed change orders to ensure proper documentation and budget adjustments.
Do you handle projects in phases?
Yes, we often implement phased projects to accommodate client budgets and seasonal considerations.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit cards with potential processing fees and use project-specific draw schedules.
Do you offer warranties on work?
We provide warranties on hardscaping and plantings, with additional manufacturer warranties on materials used.
