
Landscape Design & Construction in Salem, OR
Transforming Salem and the Portland Metro Area with Expert Landscape Design & Construction Since 1974
For those of us fortunate to live in this region, the breadth of landscape design and construction possibilities is as expansive as the Willamette Valley itself. Inspiration and ideas surround us, creating an exciting canvas from which to create the perfect outdoor lifestyle. That perfect landscape starts from the beginning: the construction process. While nature is an incredible architect, a perfectly crafted landscape involves meticulous planning for everything from the size and shape of features to where they will be located to what materials they’ll be constructed from. Once a plan is in place, executing that plan requires not only the finest materials available but also skilled contractors who can get the work done to the highest level of quality. That’s the level of service we aspire to offer at DeSantis Landscapes, and it’s the standard we hold ourselves to with every residential landscaping construction project we offer.
With DeSantis Landscapes, every design-build project is a collaboration. Since we opened our doors in 1974, we made it our mission to take landscape design and construction to the next level through sustainable practices and world-class customer service. We work together with you from start to finish to make sure your plan and our execution are exactly what you hoped for. Our streamlined design-build approach ensures everything is completed internally, offering:
Benefits of Design/Build:
- Streamlined Communication: A single point of contact ensures realistic designs align seamlessly with the construction process.
- Cost Efficiency: Accurate budgeting and fewer change orders keep your project on track.
- Time Savings: A collaborative approach removes redundancies and delays, delivering a faster start-to-finish timeline.
- Accountability: With one team managing the entire project, there’s no blame game—we take full responsibility for the final result.
Our integrated process stands out because the build stage is part of the design process itself. Midway through, we review budget pricing during the concept stage to ensure we’re on the right path and can make adjustments as needed. At the final design review, we deliver a comprehensive construction proposal. Most importantly, your designer stays involved throughout the build as project manager, ensuring that every detail is installed as intended while keeping you informed and engaged every step of the way.
For those seeking truly personalized landscapes, our approach ensures your preferences are paramount. Whether it’s incorporating native plantings for an eco-friendly garden or crafting a serene backyard retreat, we tailor our services to fit the unique dynamics of your property. Our commitment is to transform outdoor areas into functional, aesthetic spaces that captivate and endure.
Bring your dream landscape to life with our Salem-based design and build services. Call DeSantis Landscapes at (503) 782-7356 or message us online for service today.

What Our Clients Say
Hear From Those Who Have Experienced Our Commitment to Quality
-
Fabulous job on our fountain and our back patio.- Wendy K.
-
Our organization could not be happier with the company.- Todd F.
-
Everything on time, crew always on time.- Lynn B.
-
Sure appreciate your thoughtfulness.- Michael W.
-
In short, we would enthusiastically recommend DeSantis for design, construction, and maintenance.- Jeanne C.
-
They completed their work in a very timely manner, and the end result is amazing.- Ken W.
-
Not only are we getting high quality service but top that off with fantastic quick communication and super friendly employees.- Stefin M.
-
Speedy demolition of dead brush but sensitive avoidance of "keeper" plants.
- Jeri H.
Why Choose DeSantis Landscapes for Landscape Design in Salem?
One of the attributes of a well-designed DeSantis Landscapes project is its versatility. We understand that your landscape is going to be more than just a decorative feature—it’s an area where you want to spend time, host people, and enjoy the beauty that Oregon has to offer! We also recognize that your landscape will need to grow, evolve, and adapt as the year goes by and seasons change. That’s why we strive to make our landscapes into flexible-use spaces that you can enjoy just as much for function as you can for form.
Our team strives to use bold textures and foliage when selecting plants that will go into your outdoor space, whether in the front, the rear, or along the side of your home. However, we also recognize that plant choices are an important part of your property’s environmental impact and sustainability. We use plants that are native to the area, including many that are locally raised in our own nursery! This allows us to carefully craft your property into a masterpiece that not only blends in ecologically with the world around us but makes maintenance easier too!
Start planning your dream landscape with the team at DeSantis Landscapes! Contact us at (503) 782-7356 or send us a message online today to get started.
Commonly Asked Questions in Landscape Design
What is the meaning of landscape design?
Landscape design refers to the art and process of planning and creating outdoor spaces that are functional, beautiful, and sustainable. It involves the arrangement of elements like plants, hardscaping, and structures to enhance the natural environment. In Salem, this means blending your landscape with the lush natural beauty of the Willamette Valley, making your outdoor space both aesthetic and harmonious with the region's climate.
Beyond aesthetics, landscape design in Salem focuses heavily on integrating native plant species that thrive in local soil and climate conditions. These native choices not only enhance the beauty and functionality of the space but also support local wildlife and ecological balance. By prioritizing environmental harmony, our design strategies aim to create outdoor spaces that are both sustainable and breathtaking year-round.
What is the concept of landscape design?
The concept of landscape design centers on creating environments that are visually appealing, functional, and ecologically sustainable. It combines art and science to craft outdoor spaces that meet the needs of the homeowner while complementing the local surroundings. In Salem and the Portland Metro Area, it means designing landscapes that thrive in our unique climate, with native plants and water-efficient systems.
The philosophy of landscape design also embraces innovation in water management through the use of smart irrigation systems that adapt to seasonal rainfall patterns. This reduces water waste and ensures that all plantings receive the necessary hydration with minimal environmental impact. By leveraging modern technology and sustainable practices, landscape design becomes a comprehensive approach to creating enduring and enjoyable outdoor spaces.
How can I enhance my Salem garden with native plants?
Native plants are perfect for landscapes in Salem because they are adapted to the local climate and require less water and maintenance. They also attract local wildlife and support biodiversity. Our team at DeSantis Landscapes can help you choose the best native plants to create a low-maintenance, environmentally friendly garden that blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural beauty.
Integrating native plants into your landscape not only contributes to a thriving ecosystem but also adds layers of color and texture that are distinct to the region. By selecting various flowering and foliage plants, you can achieve a garden that changes with the seasons while remaining vibrant and healthy. These choices enhance garden aesthetics and serve as natural fertilizers and pest deterrents, fostering a self-sustaining garden environment.
What is the best time of year to start a landscaping project in the Portland area?
In the Portland Metro Area, the best time to start a landscaping project is typically in early spring or late fall. This allows for planting in the optimal weather conditions and ensures your landscape is established before the summer heat. Our team at DeSantis Landscapes is ready to help you plan your project during these ideal seasons to ensure the best results.
Scheduling your landscaping project during these seasons not only capitalizes on milder weather but also provides the opportunity for plants to acclimate and root more deeply. This establishes a solid foundation leading into either the warm, dry summer months or the wetter winter period. Planning these strategic timings with professional guidance ensures robustness and longevity for your landscape.
Can you help with irrigation systems for my Salem landscape?
Absolutely! Irrigation systems are crucial for maintaining a healthy landscape in Salem, especially with our fluctuating rainfall patterns. At DeSantis Landscapes, we design and install efficient irrigation systems that ensure your plants get the right amount of water, reducing waste and supporting sustainable water use in our community.
We assess each landscape's specific hydration needs and recommend systems, such as drip irrigation or sprinkler setups, tailored to conserve water while maximizing coverage. Our sustainable options integrate real-time weather adjustments and soil moisture sensors, providing precise water distribution to each section of your landscape. This enhances plant health and reduces unnecessary water use, contributing to sustainability goals.
How does hardscaping contribute to landscape sustainability in Salem?
Hardscaping plays a vital role in landscape sustainability by structuring outdoor spaces and reducing water use. In Salem, using permeable paving materials allows rainwater to seep into the ground, replenishing groundwater and reducing runoff. Incorporating elements like retaining walls can manage erosion, while strategically placed stone walkways can define space usage without harming the soil structure underneath. Our professional setup emphasizes the dual purpose of beauty and functionality, making your landscape both attractive and environmentally conscious.
By selecting materials that match the local aesthetic and climate, we ensure that your hardscapes endure Salem's seasonal shifts. Opting for recycled or locally sourced materials reduces the carbon footprint and enhances the eco-friendliness of your design. Our deliberate planning guarantees that every hardscape feature integrates seamlessly with your landscape's natural flow, marrying sustainability with artistic appeal.
What factors should I consider for a landscape design in Salem?
Creating a successful landscape design in Salem involves considering several key factors: the local climate, soil conditions, and indigenous plant life. It's crucial to choose plants that thrive in the wet, mild winters and hot, dry summers typical to this region, ensuring year-round vibrancy and ease of care. Working with local topography is also essential, as it guides drainage solutions and the placement of features.
Moreover, reflecting personal lifestyle in the design—such as spaces for entertainment, relaxation, and gardening—ensures the landscape is not only attractive but functional. Incorporating eco-friendly designs, like rain gardens or bioswales, aligns with community interests in sustainability, preserving Salem's natural beauty. At DeSantis Landscapes, we integrate these considerations into your design to provide a landscape that is both personalized and in tune with Salem's unique environment.
Start planning your dream landscape with the team at DeSantis Landscapes! Contact us at (503) 782-7356 or send us a message online today to get started.
