Business Details
19 Years
experience
Award-Winning Sustainable Landscape Design in Washington D.C.
Hawthorne Garden Design is an award-winning landscape design firm founded in 2007 in Washington D.C. Our expertise lies in transforming outdoor spaces into functional, ecologically regenerative environments that harmonize with local ecosystems. With over 15 years of experience, we specialize in sustainable design principles, utilizing native plants and locally sourced materials to create resilient landscapes. Our portfolio spans from intimate urban gardens to expansive estates, reflecting our commitment to solving site-specific challenges while prioritizing ecological integrity.We collaborate closely with skilled artisans and contractors to ensure precision in execution, from concept sketches to final installation. Our team, led by owner Tamara Belt, combines academic rigor in environmental economics with hands-on design expertise, evidenced by our community leadership in historic garden restoration and public school garden initiatives. Client testimonials consistently highlight our ability to deliver aesthetically stunning, budget-conscious projects that exceed expectations while supporting biodiversity.
Services
Landscape Design
Hardscape Installation
Planting Design
Outdoor Kitchens
Fire Pits
Fences
Rooftop Gardens
Sustainable Gardens
Garden Maintenance
Custom Stone Walls
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We have 15+ years of experience in sustainable landscape design across the DMV region.
- Our designs integrate native plants and materials to support local ecosystems.
- Owner Tamara Belt combines environmental economics expertise with hands-on design leadership.
- We collaborate with top-rated masons and contractors for precision in execution.
- Community involvement includes historic garden restoration and public school garden programs.
What people say
Stunning transformation
Thrilled with results
Beauty exceeds expectations
Budget-conscious execution
Ecological benefits
Services
Landscape Design
Our landscape design process begins with site analysis and client consultations to create tailored master plans. We integrate planting schemes, grading, and hardscape elements to optimize functionality and aesthetics. Using 3D modeling and iterative revisions, we ensure designs adapt to site conditions while prioritizing ecological sustainability through native plant selection and permeable materials.
Hardscape Installation
We specialize in durable hardscape solutions including patios, retaining walls, and walkways using premium stone and wood materials. Our team collaborates with expert masons to ensure precise installation that enhances garden structure while maintaining long-term durability. Features like custom benches and fire pits are designed to complement natural surroundings and extend outdoor usability.
Planting Design
Our planting designs focus on native species selection to support local wildlife and reduce maintenance needs. We create layered plant palettes that provide seasonal interest while improving soil health and water retention. Installation includes soil preparation, plant sourcing, and strategic placement to ensure thriving, low-maintenance gardens that evolve beautifully over time.
Outdoor Kitchens
We design custom outdoor kitchens with premium grills, countertops, and storage solutions tailored to client lifestyles. Our layouts optimize workflow and social interaction while integrating seamlessly with existing landscapes. Features include weather-resistant cabinetry, built-in seating, and complementary lighting to create functional, inviting entertainment areas.
Fire Pits
Our fire pit designs range from rustic to modern styles, incorporating custom seating and safety-compliant construction. We use durable materials like stone and steel to create focal points that extend outdoor seasonality. Each installation considers spatial flow and client preferences for ambiance, ensuring year-round usability and aesthetic cohesion with surrounding landscapes.
People
Tamara Belt
Owner & Lead Designer
Tamara Belt founded Hawthorne Garden Design in 2007 after earning a Ph.D. in environmental economics. With 15+ years of experience, she combines ecological expertise with creative design, leading projects from concept to completion. She actively contributes to community gardens and historic landscape preservation efforts.
Questions
What services does Hawthorne Garden Design offer?
We provide full-service landscape design, hardscape installation, planting design, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and sustainable garden solutions tailored to Washington D.C. properties.
How does HGD incorporate sustainability into designs?
We prioritize native plants, permeable materials, and on-site resource reuse to create ecologically resilient landscapes that reduce maintenance and support local biodiversity.
Do you work with both residential and commercial clients?
Yes, we serve residential homeowners and commercial properties across the DMV region, adapting designs to meet diverse functional and aesthetic needs.
What is your design process timeline?
Projects typically take 2-4 months from initial consultation to completion, depending on scope complexity and client availability for decision-making.
Are financing options available for landscaping projects?
We recommend exploring home equity loans or lines of credit for financing, as we currently do not offer in-house payment plans.
