About the designer
Nick Dean’s award-winning landscape design firm has its roots in the owner’s childhood immersion in the gardens of England, France, Italy and Spain, which inspired in him an early and life-long appreciation for the art of shaping the landscape. Having launched a design practice in his native London, Nick moved his business to Southern California two decades ago to take full advantage of the exciting possibilities of the year-round gardening environment, as well as the incredible variety of plants that thrive in this climate.
DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
Over the years, Nick has developed an intuitive ability to read a site, its topography and architecture - to understand what the land and structures need to harmonize the site into a cohesive whole, and to visualize design possibilities far beyond what many might perceive. He emphasizes the blurring of boundaries as we transition from indoor to outdoor living and entertaining, where alluring and relaxing outdoor rooms create a sense of tranquility and privacy and an essential refuge from our everyday city surroundings.
INTO THE GARDEN
The garden beyond may offer quiet contemplation or be the start of a journey of discovery, revealing itself to the explorer in enticing increments, rewarding them with unexpected vistas and inviting places to sit and relax. These principles apply to spaces from modest to grand, contemporary to traditional, from boldly symmetrical and structured to loosely flowing and organic – whether Nick is working with the client’s architect prior to new construction or adding a seamless garden to their existing home.
SUSTAINABILITY
For those clients considering a more sustainable route, Nick has replaced lawns and transformed thirsty landscapes into creative, drought-tolerant gardens, utilizing California natives as well as vibrant, fascinating plants from around the world. In our Gallery are many such dry gardens, including a recent winner of the coveted California Friendly Garden Contest, plus featured gardens from this year’s Theodore Payne Foundation Native Plant Garden Tour, which have also been showcased in the LA Times, Houzz and on the PBS series 'A Growing Passion'.