Business Details
16 Years
experience
Expert Landscape Architecture Services in San Francisco Bay Area
Founded in 2010, DesignIntent has established itself as a leader in landscape architecture through its commitment to sustainable design and client collaboration. Our iterative process combines creative exploration with technical precision, ensuring each project reflects the client's vision while integrating the latest sustainable materials and practices. With over 130 completed projects, we specialize in transforming outdoor spaces into functional, aesthetically pleasing extensions of the home. Our team collaborates closely with architects, interior designers, and contractors to deliver cohesive solutions tailored to both residential and commercial needs.We prioritize client involvement throughout the design journey, from initial concept to construction oversight, ensuring transparency and alignment with budgetary and functional goals. Our expertise spans site analysis, schematic design, construction documentation, and post-occupancy maintenance planning. Recognized for our ability to bridge design intent with practical execution, we maintain a philosophy rooted in listening to client challenges and innovating solutions that endure. Our work has been praised for its attention to detail, responsiveness, and ability to exceed expectations while maintaining ethical standards and environmental stewardship.
Services
Landscape Design
Outdoor Kitchens
Paved Courtyards
Garden Maintenance
Site Analysis
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We offer 13+ years of landscape architecture expertise with 130+ completed projects
- Our iterative design process includes clients at every stage
- Specialized in sustainable material selection and eco-friendly solutions
- Proven track record managing projects from $1,000 to $100,000+ budgets
- Direct collaboration with architects and contractors ensures cohesive execution
What people say
Very creative
Excellent company
Highly recommend
Professional yet easy to talk to
Outstanding to work with
Services
Landscape Design
Our landscape design service creates customized outdoor environments that blend aesthetics with functionality. We develop detailed plans incorporating plant selection, hardscape elements, and sustainable practices. Clients receive 3D models and material specifications to visualize their transformed spaces while ensuring compliance with local regulations and environmental standards.
Outdoor Kitchens
We design and plan premium outdoor kitchen spaces that extend living areas into functional culinary environments. Our designs integrate weather-resistant appliances, durable countertops, and complementary seating arrangements. Each project considers workflow efficiency, storage solutions, and seamless integration with existing landscape features for year-round usability.
Paved Courtyards
Our paved courtyard solutions combine elegant materials with practical design to create inviting outdoor gathering spaces. We specialize in selecting appropriate paving materials, incorporating drainage solutions, and designing patterns that complement architectural styles. Projects include lighting integration and planters to soften hardscape elements while maintaining accessibility.
Garden Maintenance
We provide comprehensive maintenance planning to preserve the longevity and beauty of completed projects. Our services include seasonal plant care, irrigation system checks, and hardscape cleaning protocols. We also offer consultations for ongoing improvements and collaborate with trusted maintenance professionals to ensure design integrity remains intact over time.
Site Analysis
Our pre-design site analysis identifies critical factors influencing successful landscape implementation. We assess topography, soil conditions, drainage patterns, and existing vegetation to inform design decisions. This phase includes regulatory research and feasibility studies to establish realistic project parameters while maximizing the site's natural potential.
People
Ruhina Surendran
Founder & Lead Designer
With 13 years of experience, Ruhina founded DesignIntent after studying Landscape Architecture at UC Berkeley. She brings expertise from working with SWA Group and Oikos Landscape Architects, having completed 130+ projects across residential and commercial sectors. Her background in engineering and passion for sustainable design inform her client-centered approach.
Questions
What services does DesignIntent offer?
We provide full-service landscape architecture including site analysis, schematic design, construction documentation, and project oversight for residential and commercial properties.
How does the design process work?
Our collaborative process begins with understanding client needs through site analysis, followed by concept development, material selection, and construction oversight to ensure design intent is maintained.
What project sizes do you handle?
We work on projects ranging from small backyard renovations ($1,000+) to large-scale developments exceeding $100,000, including new constructions and multi-year projects.
Do you work outside the Bay Area?
While based in San Francisco Bay Area, we consider projects throughout Northern California and have experience managing remote collaborations effectively.
How are design fees structured?
Fees range from 5-12% of construction costs, with fixed pricing for schematic phases and hourly rates for documentation and administration services.
