About Garden Designs by Marlene Deel – Firewise Landscape Design and Native Ecology Services in California
Since 2003, Marlene Deel has been designing thoughtful, drought-conscious gardens that celebrate the quiet beauty of nature and the power of ecological connection. With academic roots in both Landscape Architecture and Art History, her work bridges artistic composition with natural systems, creating outdoor environments that feel timeless, resilient, and alive.
Each design reflects a commitment to the land, not just as a backdrop, but as a living system to be understood and nurtured. Her approach integrates core ecological principles: conserving energy and water, building soil health, supporting pollinators, enhancing biodiversity, and prioritizing native plants that form deep relationships with local wildlife.
Rather than forcing a garden into place, Marlene listens to the site, its rhythms of light and shade, its seasonal shifts, its capacity for renewal. Her goal is always to design landscapes that sustain life, soften the human footprint, and restore a sense of balance between people and place.
As a Firewise qualified designer, Marlene also incorporates fire-smart strategies that reduce risk while enhancing natural beauty. Her gardens are layered with intention, resilient, regenerative, and deeply connected to place.
Working throughout Lafayette, Orinda, Danville, Walnut Creek, Piedmont, and surrounding East Bay communities, Marlene brings clarity, sensitivity, and ecological purpose to every garden she creates.
MY SERVICES
MY SERVICES
Custom Landscape Design
Tailored landscape plans that reflect your values, lifestyle, and the ecological potential of your site. Each design balances artistic structure with climate resilience and long-term beauty.
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California Native Plant Expertise
Deep knowledge of native plant communities allows for the creation of habitat-rich, water-wise gardens that restore local ecosystems. Plants are selected not only for beauty but for their essential role in supporting native pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects.
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Firewise Certified Design
Designs that integrate fire-smart strategies with aesthetic intention. Using regionally appropriate planting and defensible space principles, your garden can be both safe and beautiful.
Ecological and Pollinator-Friendly Planting
Gardens are designed as living systems that support biodiversity. Intentional planting strategies invite butterflies, bees, and birds, helping reconnect fragmented habitats and promote ecological balance.
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Installation Oversight and Guidance
Marlene ensure the design is implemented with care and integrity.
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Why Garden Designs by Marlene Deel?
Years of Trusted Expertise – A track record of thoughtful, sustainable garden design across the East Bay.
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Deep Ecological Integration – From fire safety to
pollinator support, ecological value is a core principle.​
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Artistry Meets Resilience – The gardens we create are living works of art that stand the test of time.​​
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Let’s begin crafting a garden sanctuary that brings beauty, balance and life to your home.
Our Design Process
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1. Conversation and Discovery
Every project begins with a thoughtful conversation about your vision, lifestyle, site conditions, and ecological values. This ensures the design reflects how you want to live in your garden.
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2. Site Assessment
Marlene visits your property to observe its microclimates, soil health, existing plantings, and natural views. She studies how the site moves through light, shadow, and seasonal change.
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3. Conceptual Design
A detailed conceptual plan is crafted that integrates ecological function with visual harmony. Garden rooms, pollinator pathways, and circulation are considered to create a balanced, sustainable space.
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4. Plant Selection and Detailing
Plants are selected for their beauty, drought tolerance, ecological value, and seasonal interest. Hardscape elements are chosen to complement the plantings and create lasting structure.
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5. Collaborative Refinement
You are invited to review and respond to the design. Adjustments are made as needed to ensure the final plan aligns with your needs and the natural rhythm of the site.
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6. Implementation and Stewardship
Marlene provides oversight during installation and guidance on planting techniques, maintenance, and ecological care. Whether working with professionals or DIY gardeners, the process is supported every step of the way.
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7. A Sanctuary That Evolves
Gardens are living spaces. Marlene offers ongoing consultation to support thoughtful maintenance, allowing your garden to deepen in beauty and ecological richness over time.