Website
Business Details
We are Seed Studio, a residential landscape design studio serving San Francisco, Marin, and the greater Bay Area. We have over 25 years of combined experience in landscape, architectural, and ecological design, founded by Steve Ritchey in 2012. We specialize in modern, nativeplant gardens that blend clean lines with Californias ecological context. Our designs prioritize drought and fire resilience, reducing the need for frequent gardener visits. We incorporate full MWELO compliance and firedefensible planning into every project. We coordinate closely with architects, engineers, local officials, and contractors to streamline permit acquisition and construction.

We guide each project through a clear process from concept through construction documentation, ensuring informed decisions. We create outdoor living spaces for gathering, entertaining, dining, and quiet relaxation that enhance homeowners quality of life. We employ lowwater irrigation design and high ecological impact planting to conserve resources and support local biodiversity. We are committed to delivering projects that stand the test of time, offering lasting aesthetic value and functional performance. We pride ourselves on transparent communication, professional standards, and a clientfocused approach that earns lasting trust.
Highlights and features
  • We have over 25 years of landscape design experience.
  • Our designs meet full MWELO firedefensible standards.
  • We specialize in lowwater native plant gardens.
  • Our team coordinates permits, engineers, and contractors seamlessly.
  • We guide projects from concept through construction documentation.
Services
FullProperty Transformations
We reimagine entire residential sites, creating cohesive modern landscapes that reflect the clients vision. The service targets homeowners seeking a comprehensive upgrade of all outdoor areas, from lawns to patios. Clients benefit from a unified design that reduces water use, improves fire resilience, and adds lasting aesthetic value.
New Home Planning
We collaborate with builders to integrate nativeplant landscapes into new home sites from the earliest design stages. This service serves developers and homeowners constructing new residences in the Bay Area who want sustainable, lowmaintenance yards. The result is a readytoplant plan that meets MWELO fire standards and conserves water from day one.
Exterior Remodel Design
We design exterior upgrades for significant home remodels, including accessory dwelling unit (ADU) additions. Homeowners renovating their properties receive tailored garden layouts that complement the new architecture while preserving ecological function. Benefits include seamless aesthetic integration, reduced irrigation needs, and compliance with local firedefensible guidelines.
Outdoor Living Spaces
We create outdoor living areas for gathering, entertaining, dining, and quiet relaxation. These spaces are designed for families and hosts who want functional, beautiful extensions of their homes that thrive in the Bay Area climate. Clients enjoy lowmaintenance environments that foster social connection while conserving water and enhancing fire safety.
Native Plant Gardens
We design nativeplant gardens that deliver high ecological impact, low water use, and firedefensible layouts. This service targets environmentally conscious homeowners throughout the Bay Area seeking resilient, selfsustaining landscapes. The outcome is a thriving garden that requires fewer visits from gardeners, supports local biodiversity, and complies with MWELO regulations.