The 7 Best Landscape Designers in Chicago

Transforming an outdoor space into a stunning oasis requires the vision and expertise of a top-notch landscape designer. Whether you’re looking to revamp a backyard or enhance a commercial property, Chicago is home to a diverse array of talented professionals ready to bring your dream landscape to life. In this guide, we explore the 7 best landscape designers in Chicago, each offering unique skills and services to cater to your specific needs.

When selecting a landscape designer, consider the following services and aspects:

Design Consultation: Initial meetings to understand your vision and objectives.
Site Analysis: Evaluating the space’s conditions, such as soil quality, climate, and topography.
Hardscaping: Designing and installing non-plant elements like patios, walkways, and walls.
Softscaping: Selecting and planting trees, shrubs, flowers, and other greenery.
Irrigation Systems: Implementing efficient watering solutions to sustain plant life.
Lighting Design: Creating ambient and functional outdoor lighting solutions.
Maintenance Services: Ongoing care to ensure your landscape remains beautiful and healthy.
Sustainability Practices: Using eco-friendly materials and techniques.
Budget Planning: Providing detailed cost estimates to fit your financial plan, with projects typically ranging from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.

Explore our guide to find the perfect landscape designer who can elevate your outdoor space with creativity and professionalism.

1. City Escape Garden Center and Design Studio
2. Christy Webber Landscapes
3. Terrace

4. Home-E Designs
5. Topiarius
6. Chicago Roof Deck and Garden
7. Hoerr Schaudt Landscape Architects

Number of companies

518

Verified reviews

4,36

Average rating

(773)6382000

1. City Escape Garden Center and Design Studio

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,3/5

3022 W Lake St, 60612.0, Chicago

Landscape designer
Garden center

Why we chose them

City Escape Garden Center and Design Studio stands out as a premier destination for gardening enthusiasts in Chicago. Offering a comprehensive range of services, this full-service garden retailer combines the expertise of a landscape designer with the charm of a boutique studio. With a focus on both indoor and outdoor plants, home and garden décor, and a variety of planters and vases, they provide a rich selection for every season and reason. Their offerings also include unique artwork and silk flowers, catering to those looking to enhance their living spaces with beautiful, lasting pieces.

In addition to its retail offerings, the company excels in landscape design and maintenance, providing design-build services to transform any landscape into a thriving oasis. Their commitment to quality and creativity ensures that each project is tailored to the client’s vision, making them a sought-after choice for landscape properties. This dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction is why they have been chosen for our directory, as they inspire their clients to create and maintain stunning outdoor environments.

(773)5330477

2. Christy Webber Landscapes

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,1/5

2900 W Ferdinand St, 60612.0, Chicago

Landscape designer
Landscaper

Why we chose them

Christy Webber Landscapes, an award-winning landscape provider, has been transforming the outdoor spaces of Chicago for over 30 years. Known for their work on iconic landmarks like Soldier Field, Millennium Park, and Navy Pier, they also cater to residential and community properties. Their comprehensive services include design, construction, and maintenance, ensuring that every project reflects the unique vision of their clients. Through collaboration with architects and contractors, they deliver exceptional outdoor spaces, from gardens and roof decks to commercial campuses and city parks.

The company’s expertise extends to a wide range of services, including landscape design, build, maintain, enhance, and snow removal. Their skilled construction team brings designs to life with precision, while their horticulturists maintain landscapes year-round, creating lasting impressions. Clients praise the team for their creativity, responsiveness, and dedication to enhancing community spaces, making them a top choice for both residential and municipal projects in Chicago. Their commitment to building inspiring and beautiful environments sets them apart in the landscaping industry.

(773)9440467

3. Terrace

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,9/5

1329 W Wilson Ave, 60640.0, Chicago

Landscape designer
Furniture store
Garden center
Interior designer
Home goods store
Lighting store
Plant nursery
Rug store

Why we chose them

Terrace stands out as a vibrant hub for both interior and exterior design enthusiasts in Chicago. Known for its unique blend of furniture and plant offerings, the company provides a diverse range of services including landscape design, interior design, and a fully stocked garden center. Visitors can explore an extensive selection of home goods, from rugs and lighting to botanicals and accessories, all curated with a focus on quality and style. The founders, Charlie and JT Murray, have created a space that reflects their passion for craftsmanship and community, making it more than just a shopping destination but a celebration of design and inclusivity.

Beyond its impressive product range, the company offers a series of engaging workshops at The Terrace Studio, encouraging customers to deepen their connection with the botanical world through terrarium and plant-focused classes. This interactive approach fosters a sense of community and shared learning. With a commitment to resilience and diversity, the company exemplifies the power of design to unite people, offering a distinctive shopping experience where furniture meets foliage in an inspiring way.

(773)7505220

4. Home-E Designs

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,9/5

111 N Wabash Ave, 60602.0, Chicago

Landscape designer

Why we chose them

Home-E Designs is a distinguished landscape design company renowned for its comprehensive services tailored for residential and small business clients in Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. As a proud woman-owned business, they offer a wide array of landscaping and lawn care solutions, ensuring projects of almost any size are executed with precision and creativity. Their team excels in transforming outdoor spaces with services ranging from basic mowing and lawn care to sophisticated hardscaping, including the installation of paver patios and retaining walls. The company is fully licensed, bonded, and insured, providing clients with peace of mind and an assurance of quality.

Specializing in both design and maintenance, the company enhances property value through elegant and functional landscaping solutions. Their professionals bring a unique touch to every project, whether it’s a simple property cleanup or the construction of custom grill areas for family gatherings. Their commitment to exceptional service is evident in their attention to detail and dedication to customer satisfaction. Additionally, their expertise extends to snow and ice removal, ensuring clients’ properties remain pristine and safe year-round. With a solid reputation built on reliability and creativity, this company is a top choice for those seeking superior landscaping services in the region.

(773)9445400

5. Topiarius

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,9/5

5030 W Lake St, 60644.0, Chicago

Landscape designer
Landscape architect

Why we chose them

Topiarius, established in 2003, is a premier landscape design, build, and maintenance company dedicated to redefining the urban landscape in Chicago and southwest Michigan. Specializing in creating luxurious outdoor sanctuaries, they transform rooftops and yards into exquisite spaces where luxury meets tranquility. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including landscape design, architecture, construction, and maintenance. With an award-winning innovative design team and exceptional craftsmanship, they provide clients with a seamless journey from concept to completion, ensuring each project is tailored to meet unique needs and exceed expectations.

Known for their attention to detail and solutions-based approach, Topiarius has built a reputation for elevating outdoor living experiences. Their offerings include luxury seasonal rotations and specialized services like garage rooftop designs and winter containers. With an emphasis on creating spaces that foster relaxation and connection, they believe in the transformative power of nature. Their dedicated team, praised for being attentive and communicative, ensures peace of mind for clients by eliminating risks associated with poor craftsmanship. Clients consistently commend their ability to blend high-quality products with creative solutions, resulting in beautifully transformed outdoor spaces.

(773)8572277

6. Chicago Roof Deck and Garden

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

1859 N Elston Ave, 60642.0, Chicago

Deck builder
Architect
General contractor
Landscape architect

Why we chose them

Chicago Roof Deck and Garden stands out as an award-winning leader in transforming outdoor spaces since 2009. Specializing in custom roof decks, the company offers a comprehensive range of services including deck building, architecture, general contracting, and landscape architecture. Their expertise is evident in their thorough process, which involves everything from design and permitting to construction and maintenance. With a talented team comprising architects, structural engineers, and design directors, they ensure each project adheres to the highest standards of quality and compliance, catering to commercial, hospitality, and residential sectors.

The company’s innovative approach has been recognized with numerous accolades, such as the Excellence in Landscape Awards 2021 and the Gold Key Award for Outdoor Spaces in 2021. Their commitment to excellence is reflected in featured projects like the Astor Roof Deck and Graffiti Sports Roof Garden. By integrating cutting-edge techniques in fabrication and construction, including precision laser cutting and custom aluminum work, they create unique and functional outdoor living spaces. Their dedication to client satisfaction and creative vision makes them a premier choice for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor environment.

(312)4926501

7. Hoerr Schaudt Landscape Architects

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 2,8/5

1555 W Fulton St, 60607.0, Chicago

Landscape architect
Landscape designer

Why we chose them

Hoerr Schaudt Landscape Architects stands out for its innovative approach to landscape architecture and design. With a presence in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Kansas City, the firm excels in crafting gardens that captivate and inspire. Their portfolio spans diverse environments, including commercial spaces, public gardens, parks, plazas, mixed-use developments, academic institutions, rooftops, streetscapes, workplaces, and residential properties. They skillfully blend traditional and modern styles, creating both urban and pastoral landscapes that reflect their clients’ visions.

Renowned for their creativity and expertise, Hoerr Schaudt’s team is dedicated to transforming spaces into vibrant, functional environments. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every project, whether it’s a serene residential garden or a bustling public plaza. The firm’s impressive range of services and dedication to crafting delightful outdoor spaces make them a distinguished choice for those seeking top-tier landscape architecture and design solutions.

FAQs

What services do landscape designers in Chicago typically offer?

Landscape designers in Chicago offer a range of services, including design consultation, site analysis, hardscaping, softscaping, irrigation system installation, lighting design, maintenance services, and sustainability practices.

How much do landscape design services cost in Chicago?

The cost of landscape design services in Chicago typically ranges from €2,500 to €30,000, depending on the project's size and complexity.

How do I choose the right landscape designer for my project?

When choosing a landscape designer, consider their portfolio, experience, client reviews, and whether their design style aligns with your vision. It's also important to discuss your budget and timeline expectations upfront.

What should I expect during the initial design consultation?

During the initial design consultation, expect to discuss your vision, objectives, budget, and any specific features you want. The designer will also assess the site and provide initial ideas and recommendations.

How long does a landscape design project typically take to complete?

The timeline for a landscape design project can vary greatly, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on the project's scope and complexity.

Are there sustainable practices used in landscape design in Chicago?

Yes, many landscape designers in Chicago incorporate sustainable practices, such as using eco-friendly materials, native plants, and efficient irrigation systems to create environmentally conscious designs.

What is the difference between hardscaping and softscaping?

Hardscaping involves designing and installing non-plant elements like patios, walkways, and walls, while softscaping focuses on selecting and planting trees, shrubs, flowers, and other greenery.

How important is budget planning in landscape design?

Budget planning is crucial in landscape design to ensure your project aligns with your financial plan. A detailed cost estimate helps manage expectations and avoid overspending.