Business Details
48 Years
experience
Award-Winning Landscape Design & Build in Alamo, CA
L & L Landscaping has been a trusted name in Northern California since 1978, delivering exceptional landscape design and construction services. With over 42 years of hands-on experience, we specialize in transforming outdoor spaces into functional, drought-tolerant environments that blend aesthetic appeal with practical infrastructure. Our owner-led approach ensures direct collaboration with clients throughout every project phase, from initial concept to final execution. We prioritize transparency, explaining material science decisions, cost tradeoffs, and functional benefits to empower informed choices.Our commitment to quality is underscored by a comprehensive guarantee, backed by decades of refining construction techniques and a zero-tolerance policy for subpar workmanship. Recognized with multiple Houzz Awards and a California Landscape Contractors Association accolade, we serve Contra Costa County with a focus on lasting value and client satisfaction.
Services
Landscape Design
Hardscaping
Drought Tolerant Landscaping
Pool Landscaping
Project Management
Garden Design
Patio Design
Deck Design
Water Features
Organic Gardens
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- We offer 42 years of specialized expertise in drought-tolerant landscape design.
- Our owner-led approach ensures direct oversight and accountability for every project.
- We guarantee all work with a 'do it right the first time' quality assurance system.
- Recognized with 3 Houzz Awards and a California Landscape Contractors Association accolade.
- We utilize construction techniques refined over four decades for superior durability.
What people say
Outstanding design
Excellent communication
Beautifully landscaped property
Fantastic job
Smooth process
Services
Custom Landscape Design
Our custom landscape design service creates tailored outdoor environments that balance aesthetics with functionality. We integrate drought-tolerant plant selections, durable hardscaping, and strategic drainage solutions. Each design undergoes rigorous client review to ensure alignment with budget, material science principles, and long-term maintenance needs.
Drought Tolerant Landscaping
We specialize in drought-tolerant landscapes that avoid conventional 'xeriscape' aesthetics. Our approach combines native plants with innovative irrigation systems and soil conditioning techniques. This creates visually striking, low-maintenance spaces that reduce water consumption by up to 70% while maintaining ecological balance.
Hardscaping
Our hardscaping services include patios, walkways, and retaining walls constructed with premium materials. We prioritize structural integrity through proper base preparation and drainage integration. Each element complements the overall landscape design while enhancing property functionality and value.
Project Management
We provide end-to-end project management from initial concept to final installation. Our owner-led oversight ensures seamless coordination between design, permitting, and construction phases. This single-source accountability guarantees adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards without subcontractor-related complications.
Pool Landscaping
Our pool landscaping integrates water features with surrounding hardscapes and plantings. We create cohesive designs that address safety, accessibility, and maintenance considerations. The approach combines aesthetic elements with practical drainage solutions to protect pool structures and adjacent surfaces.
People
Bruce Lance
Owner/President
Founder with 45+ years in landscaping, specializing in material science and construction best practices. Developed L & L's quality assurance system through decades of analyzing failed landscape components.
Ross Knazs
Owner/Vice President
Licensed Landscape Architect with 20+ years' experience. Combines design expertise with practical construction knowledge. Holds a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture degree from Louisiana State University and California license #5812.
Jesse Velasquez
Foreman
20-year construction veteran overseeing project execution. Specializes in translating design concepts into durable installations while maintaining strict quality control standards across all field operations.
Questions
What types of landscape projects do you specialize in?
We focus on large residential projects including complete outdoor living spaces, drought-tolerant landscapes, and new home construction. Our typical projects start at $60,000.
How does your design-build process work?
We integrate clients early in the design phase, explaining material choices and cost tradeoffs. After preliminary designs, we refine concepts through client collaboration before construction begins.
Do you offer project guarantees?
Yes, every project includes our comprehensive guarantee. We stand by our workmanship and materials, with a zero-tolerance policy for substandard results.
Are you licensed for landscape architecture?
Yes, co-owner Ross Knazs holds California Landscape Architect License #5812. We maintain all necessary contractor licenses for design and construction services.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Contra Costa County, including Alamo, Walnut Creek, and surrounding Northern California communities for residential landscape projects.
Reviews (4)
Joyce Kinoshita
Jun 13, 2018
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L and L redid my back yard in 2015 and I was so pleased with the outcome that I had them redo the front yard as well. I love the way both yards look and so do my neighbors! Bruce and Ross, the owners, are kind, honest and good people. They both have an eye for design and made recommendations that would work with the aesthetic I was looking for as well as work within my budget. Jesse, the crew manager, and his team are extremely hardworking, careful and knowledgeable.
They left the work area neat at the end of each day and the final cleanup at the completion of the job was unexpected and totally wonderful. L and L provides excellent value for the quality provided. They deliver what is promised (sometimes more) and stand behind their work. They're a pleasure to do business with.
They left the work area neat at the end of each day and the final cleanup at the completion of the job was unexpected and totally wonderful. L and L provides excellent value for the quality provided. They deliver what is promised (sometimes more) and stand behind their work. They're a pleasure to do business with.
Christine Vranesh
Apr 23, 2016
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We just finished our backyard renovation with L&L and cannot say enough about how great this firm is to work with. Ross and Bruce are a perfect compliment to each other. They are open to ideas and worked with us to give us the outcome we desired. They are responsive and accommodating and wanted to make sure we were happy with every detail. We would highly recommend hiring L&L to complete your backyard project.
Lon Phares
Mar 13, 2016
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After meeting with a few contractors I decided to hire L&L for a complete front and backyard renovation. This was a large project including design, tear-out and build. I had a couple initial meetings with Bruce and explained our vision which included a sport court, fire pit, hot tub, large patio, outdoor TV, built-in BBQ and patio cover. Bruce had some great suggestions and the vision was then turned over to Ross for design. Ross drew up a fantastic design plan that was on point with what we wanted.
Throughout the process both Bruce and Ross were prompt at responding to my questions and listening to our needs. All the crews that showed up were respectful and easy to deal with. We had several change orders throughout the process which they accommodated and didn't overcharge me on. I would hire them again and I would recommend them to anyone looking to improve their landscaping.
Throughout the process both Bruce and Ross were prompt at responding to my questions and listening to our needs. All the crews that showed up were respectful and easy to deal with. We had several change orders throughout the process which they accommodated and didn't overcharge me on. I would hire them again and I would recommend them to anyone looking to improve their landscaping.
Scott McMillin
Dec 28, 2015
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We were extremely satisfied with our complete backyard remodel completed by L&L Landscaping. We have recommended them to 2 of our neighbors that are currently under contract with them. Their attention to detail and cleanliness while completing the work was greatly appreciated. We are so happy that we paid a little bit more but ended up with our dream yard.
