Verdance Landscape Architecture

09/03/2026

Drab to fab… swipe to see how we transformed this boring San Mateo front yard with bodacious color!

08/26/2026

Flashing back to our collab with Ana Williamson Architect to bring new life to a classic Palo Alto house, patio, and garden.

As a designer it’s tempting to want to work with new homes where you imagine you’ll shape circulation patterns and define palettes. But it can be an advantage to work with a home owners who has observed their site for years: they can tell you where the water collects, how they like to move from point A to point B, what time of day the light is best.

Add in an architect who cares as much about these things as you do, and sometimes updating an old home is the most fun of all!

Architect: Ana Williamson Architect
Building contractor: Peter von Clemm
Landscape contractor: Modern Landscaping, Inc.
Landscape architect: Verdance Landscape Arch. 😊

08/21/2026

California just approved its long-debated “zone 0” rules for homes in fire-prone areas.

The new regulations will affect new construction immediately, homes in high-risk areas over the next 3–5 years — and many homes not at all.

Before planning any new landscaping, home owners should consult with a professional or who knows the rules. Assocation of Professional Landscape Designers - CA Chapter is a great resource to find a designer near you, or contact us to learn more.

08/18/2026

The Homegrown National Park initiative celebrates native plants as the cornerstones of healthy, biodiverse landscapes. Our “Hacienda Hillsborough” project is rich in natives, not only to reduce irrigation needs but also to attract native bees, birds, beetles, lizards, caterpillars… the whole food chain! Add in sources of shelter and fresh, moving water, and we are creating a habitat that nurtures wildlife even as it inspires its human residents. ~That~ is the essence of “Califriendly” design!

08/02/2026

07/27/2026

For our ‘Hacienda Hillsborough’ design we needed a very-low-water shrub that could act as a screen without feeling like a hedge. We hadn’t used the CA native Malacothamnus fasciculatus (Chaparral Mallow) previously, but this won’t be the last time!

Thanks to Brian Henry for finding these gorgeous specimens and planting them impeccably!

07/26/2026

Painted ceramic tile stair risers and wall insets convey authentic Spanish style at our ‘Hacienda Hillsborough’ project. Such hand-crafted details elevate the home’s character and invite exploration and engagement.

Architect: Beausoleil Architecture
Building Contractor: Conrado Home Builders
Landscape Contractor: Brian Henry
Structural Engineer: Lea & Braze Engineering, Inc.
Landscape Architect: Verdance Landscape Arch.

05/03/2026

A sneak peek at our ‘Saratoga Transformation’… and what a change it is! The “before” shots are barely recognizable.

The project endured massive storm damage, vendor delays, and more than a few rounds of revisions. But with amazingly patient clients and the steady hand of Modern Landscaping, Inc., the completed project is a family friendly destination for the ages!

Special thanks to .co for keeping nerves calm and resilient landscaping in focus. 🐝

More to come!

04/28/2026

Sometimes foliage, not flowers, carries the day.



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