Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Sustainable Landscape Architecture Solutions
Owen Dell & Associates is an internationally recognized landscape architecture firm specializing in sustainable design since 1971. Our mission centers on creating landscapes that transcend sustainability to become integral parts of a better future while providing beautiful, functional spaces. With over 50 years of experience, we combine deep expertise in sustainable practices, including certified master water auditing and permaculture design, with a commitment to client service. Our work spans residential, commercial, and public projects, emphasizing environmental stewardship through innovative solutions like rainwater harvesting and habitat restoration.We prioritize education, having authored industry-leading books and developed the Sustainable Landscape Action Plan (SLAP) to reduce costs and ecological impact. Our teams accolades, including ASLA membership and regional advisory roles, reflect our leadership in sustainable landscaping. We serve Oregons Willamette Valley, offering design, consultation, and coaching services tailored to client needs while maintaining a philosophy of community improvement and environmental responsibility.
Services
Landscape Architecture
Sustainable Design
Garden Coaching
Rainwater Harvesting
Habitat Restoration
SLAP Consultation
Permaculture Design
Public Landscape Planning
Eco-Friendly Irrigation
Native Plant Selection
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of pioneering experience in sustainable landscaping practices.
- Our team includes certified master water auditors and permaculture designers.
- We developed the proprietary Sustainable Landscape Action Plan (SLAP) methodology.
- Our work has shaped industry standards adopted globally for eco-friendly design.
- We provide actionable education through books, lectures, and hands-on coaching.
Associations and certifications
- ASLA (American Society of Landscape Architects)
What people say
Marvelous layout and plant selections
Beautiful peaceful outdoor space
Professional collaborative approach
Deep environmental knowledge
Excellent communication skills
Services
Landscape Architecture
We create custom landscape designs integrating sustainable principles for residential, commercial, and public spaces. Our approach combines ecological science with aesthetic considerations to produce functional, low-maintenance environments. Services include site analysis, planting plans, and construction documentation tailored to local climate conditions.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable designs minimize resource consumption while maximizing environmental benefits. This includes water-efficient irrigation systems, native plant selection, and permeable hardscapes. We focus on creating self-sustaining ecosystems that reduce maintenance costs and chemical dependencies for long-term ecological and economic advantages.
Rainwater Harvesting
We design rainwater collection and management systems that reduce municipal water usage. Our solutions include cisterns, bioswales, and infiltration basins tailored to site-specific hydrology. These systems improve water efficiency while addressing stormwater management challenges in residential and commercial properties.
Habitat Restoration
Our restoration projects revive native ecosystems through invasive species removal and native vegetation reintroduction. We create wildlife corridors and pollinator habitats while maintaining aesthetic appeal. These projects enhance biodiversity and improve environmental resilience in urban and suburban settings.
Garden Coaching
We provide personalized guidance for homeowners and professionals through our SLAP methodology. Coaching covers sustainable practices, plant selection, and maintenance optimization. Our goal is empowering clients to maintain ecologically responsible landscapes while achieving their aesthetic and functional objectives.
People
Owen Dell
Principal Landscape Architect
Award-winning landscape architect with 50+ years of sustainable design experience. ASLA member, certified master water auditor, and permaculture designer. Author of multiple landscaping books and former TV host of Garden Wise Guys. Holds Oregon landscape architect license LA798.
Jeff Ard
Associate Landscape Architect
BLA degree from University of Oregon with 30+ years of experience in sustainable design. Specializes in native plants, rainwater systems, and CAD drafting. Former principal at Habitats, Inc. and collaborator on major public projects like the Three Waters Project.
Questions
What is a Sustainable Landscape Action Plan (SLAP)?
SLAP is a proprietary methodology to optimize existing landscapes for cost efficiency and environmental performance through behavioral changes and targeted upgrades.
Do you offer physical landscaping services?
We specialize in consultation and design only. We can recommend qualified contractors for implementation.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Oregon's Willamette Valley with travel charges for locations beyond Corvallis/Albany.
Can you work with my existing gardener?
Yes, we provide implementation guides and can collaborate directly with your current landscaping professionals.
What credentials does Owen Dell hold?
Owen is a registered landscape architect (RLA), ASLA member, certified master water auditor, and permaculture designer.
How much money can I save with sustainable landscaping?
Case studies show up to 80% reduction in maintenance costs, with savings varying based on current landscape inefficiencies.
