Business Details
16 Years
experience
Expert Landscape Architecture Services in San Francisco
DesignIntent is a landscape architecture firm dedicated to creating sustainable and beautiful outdoor spaces. Our process combines client vision with innovative design, utilizing sketches, 3D models, and collaborative workshops to develop functional, aesthetically pleasing environments. With over 13 years of experience, we specialize in integrating indoor and outdoor living areas through meticulous site analysis, material selection, and construction oversight. Our team collaborates closely with architects, contractors, and suppliers to ensure every project reflects the client's unique needs while maintaining environmental responsibility.We prioritize client involvement throughout the design journey, from initial concept to post-occupancy evaluation. Our expertise spans residential and commercial projects, ranging from small backyard renovations to large-scale developments requiring multi-year planning. We emphasize long-term maintenance strategies to preserve the beauty and functionality of every landscape we create.
Services
Landscape Design
Outdoor Living Spaces
Construction Administration
Site Analysis
Maintenance Planning
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We offer 13+ years of landscape architecture expertise
- Our team collaborates with top architects and contractors
- Specialize in sustainable, client-centered design solutions
- Provide full-service project management from concept to completion
- Emphasize long-term maintenance and environmental responsibility
What people say
Creative and talented
Excellent company
Super professional
Beauty and functionality
Highly recommend
Services
Landscape Design
We create custom landscape designs that integrate indoor and outdoor spaces. Our approach combines aesthetic appeal with functional layouts, using sustainable materials and plant selections tailored to each property's unique characteristics and microclimate.
Outdoor Kitchens
Designing premium outdoor kitchen spaces that extend living areas into exterior environments. We incorporate durable materials, efficient layouts, and weather-resistant appliances to create functional entertainment spaces that complement architectural styles.
Construction Administration
Providing expert supervision during construction phases to ensure design integrity. Our team reviews contractor work, addresses implementation challenges, and maintains quality control while respecting budgetary constraints and project timelines.
Site Analysis
Conducting comprehensive evaluations of property conditions including topography, soil composition, drainage patterns, and existing vegetation. This data informs design decisions to create sustainable, contextually appropriate landscape solutions.
Maintenance Planning
Developing customized maintenance strategies to preserve landscape beauty and functionality. We provide guidance on plant care, irrigation management, and seasonal adjustments to ensure long-term success of designed outdoor spaces.
People
Ruhina Surendran
Founder & Lead Landscape Architect
Ruhina founded DesignIntent in 2010 after gaining experience at Oikos Landscape Architects and SWA Group. With a background in engineering and landscape architecture, she specializes in sustainable design solutions that balance aesthetics with functionality across residential and commercial projects.
Questions
What services does DesignIntent offer?
We provide full-service landscape architecture including site analysis, schematic design, construction documentation, contractor coordination, and maintenance planning for residential and commercial properties.
How does the design process work?
Our collaborative process includes site analysis, concept development, material selection, construction documentation, and ongoing project oversight to ensure design intent is maintained throughout implementation.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve the San Francisco Bay Area, including Palo Alto, Tiburon, Burlingame, and San Mateo, with experience in both urban and suburban environments.
How are your fees structured?
Fees typically range from 5-12% of construction costs, with fixed pricing for schematic design and hourly rates for documentation and administration phases.
Do you handle both small and large projects?
Yes, we manage projects of all scales from small backyard renovations to multi-year developments requiring extensive permitting and construction coordination.
