Business Details
Eco-Friendly Landscaping & Garden Design in Oakland
Mariposa Gardening & Design Cooperative is a women-led landscape design and build cooperative dedicated to restoring ecological systems through sustainable outdoor spaces. Founded on principles of environmental stewardship, we specialize in habitat gardens that attract pollinators, using ethically sourced materials to minimize environmental impact. Our worker-owned cooperative structure fosters inclusivity and supports local economies. With expertise in drought-resistant landscaping and dry stacked stonework, we create ecosystems that blend beauty with functionality.Our team combines decades of experience in ecological design, offering holistic services from concept to maintenance. Recognized in Pacific Horticulture and Sunset Magazine, we advocate for meadows over lawns in California's dry climate. Featured in KQED discussions on drought gardening, our approach prioritizes water management and biodiversity. We collaborate with clients to transform urban spaces into nature-connected sanctuaries. Our Seed Fountains and habitat gardens exemplify our commitment to integrating artistry with ecological health.
Services
Habitat Gardens
Stonework
Seed Fountains
Garden Maintenance
Ecological Design
Drought-Resistant Landscaping
Highlights and features
- We specialize in habitat gardens that attract pollinators and songbirds.
- Our designs use ethically sourced materials for minimal environmental impact.
- Worker-owned cooperative ensures equitable practices and community focus.
- Expertise in drought-resistant landscaping tailored to California's climate.
- Award-winning approach featured in Pacific Horticulture and Sunset Magazine.
What people say
Draws me out at all hours
Does it right from the start
Operating on a totally different level
Happy in my Mariposa garden
Services
Habitat Gardens
We design and install habitat gardens that support biodiversity by attracting butterflies, bees, and songbirds. Using native plants and seasonal blooms, our ecosystems blend aesthetic beauty with ecological function. Clients benefit from outdoor spaces that nurture wildlife while reducing water usage in California's climate.
Stonework
Our dry stacked stonework creates durable, mortar-free structures that harmonize with natural landscapes. Using traditional techniques, we craft retaining walls, pathways, and garden features that endure for generations. This method reduces environmental impact while adding timeless beauty to ecologically designed gardens.
Seed Fountains
Seed Fountains are handcrafted stone installations that provide water access for pollinators. Designed using the Golden Ratio, these functional sculptures attract birds and insects while serving as garden focal points. The flowing water design supports local ecosystems without relying on mechanical systems.
Garden Maintenance
We offer sustainable garden maintenance that preserves ecological balance. Services include seasonal pruning, habitat upkeep, and water-efficient irrigation management. Our approach ensures long-term garden health while maintaining the integrity of pollinator habitats and native plant ecosystems.
Ecological Design
Our ecological design process creates landscapes that harmonize with local ecosystems. From initial concept to implementation, we prioritize water conservation, soil health, and native plant integration. This approach results in low-maintenance, climate-resilient gardens that connect homeowners to California's natural heritage.
People
Andrea Hurd
Founder & General Manager
Andrea founded Mariposa Gardening & Design Cooperative to promote equitable employment and ecological stewardship. With expertise in drought-resistant landscaping, she advocates for habitat gardens through media appearances and published articles.
Gina Souhal
Lead Designer
Gina has served as Mariposa's lead designer since 2018, specializing in creating functional ecosystems that support local wildlife. Her work focuses on integrating native plants with artistic stonework in urban landscapes.
Lauren Bennett
Project Manager
Lauren manages installation projects at Mariposa, ensuring seamless execution of ecological designs. With over five years of experience, she oversees teams in constructing sustainable landscapes that prioritize environmental harmony.
Kari Ballesteros
Garden Care Manager
Kari leads Mariposa's garden maintenance division, applying sustainable practices to preserve ecological balance. Her expertise ensures long-term health of pollinator habitats and water-efficient landscapes through responsible care techniques.
Finn Wick
Install Team Member
Finn contributes to Mariposa's installation projects with a focus on creating durable, eco-conscious landscapes. As a co-owner, they combine technical skill with commitment to the cooperative's environmental and social values.
Questions
What makes Mariposa's landscaping approach unique?
We combine ecological restoration with artistic design, prioritizing habitat creation and drought-resistant plants. Our worker-owned cooperative model ensures ethical practices throughout every project.
Do you specialize in California-native plants?
Yes, we focus on native and climate-appropriate plants that thrive in California's dry environment while supporting local biodiversity through pollinator-friendly selections.
Can you help with water-efficient garden designs?
We specialize in drought-resistant landscaping that minimizes water use through strategic plant selection, efficient irrigation, and soil conservation techniques tailored to California's climate.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Oakland, Berkeley, San Francisco, Montclair, and Saratoga areas, creating sustainable landscapes that reflect each region's unique ecological characteristics.
How do you incorporate sustainability into projects?
We use ethically sourced materials, create wildlife habitats, and implement water-saving techniques. Our cooperative business model also supports local economies and equitable employment practices.
Do you offer garden maintenance services?
Yes, we provide eco-friendly maintenance that preserves ecological balance through seasonal care, habitat upkeep, and sustainable irrigation management for long-term garden health.
Reviews (1)
Margie Kay
May 09, 2022
Report
Mariposa Gardening stayed on budget, or notified of change orders right away. I've never seen people who work so hard. Questions were answered when I asked them - accommodations made without complaint when I needed the soil to not be on our roadway but in the driveway, due to neighborhood concerns. They were also very respectful or our property and cleaned up at the end of each day. Would highly recommend!
