About Us

Garden Architecture is an award-winning landscape design-build firm based in Berkeley, California.

Over more than 35 years working in the Bay Area, we have developed a keen understanding of local architecture and garden traditions.

We design both residential and commercial projects and are known for our high level of craftsmanship and rich detailing.

We are always excited to build our own designs, and are able to insure a smooth transition from the first, broad concept through the completion of construction. The design-build process offers us the opportunity to seamlessly transition between design and implementation, with a hands-on knowledge of construction, as well as a proven sensibility to cost.

Robert Trachtenberg and his team of designers and craftsmen all share a commitment to the collaborative process, and we work alongside some of the area’s best architects and construction companies. We have worked hard to establish long-term relationships with many clients and relish working with them over the years as their needs evolve and their gardens mature.

Our open minded approach to design and our collaborative process offer a broad range of garden styles for our clients. We have learned to listen carefully to our clients needs and wishes and we balance those goals by understanding and working with the natural constraints and opportunities that are inherent in each project.

The world is changing before our eyes and everyone seems to be working harder these days. In an effort to keep our pulse on what is current we are constantly reinventing ourselves and learning to use new materials that are green and sustainable. And as designers we have been forced to think more creatively about how we can be more efficient with our methods of implementation, helping to ensure a more cost effective project.

There is always one constant, however: with each space we design, we strive to create garden spaces that invite active participation in that landscape, and offer opportunities to entertain and relax. Our attention to every detail has created many happy clients for more than two decades.

Give us a call to discuss a potential project or to learn more about what we have to offer.

35 Years
Experience
We've been working in the Bay Area to design both residential and commercial projects.
350+
Projects
Our work has been recognized by publications over the last 20 years in business.

Our Team

Principal

Robert Trachtenberg

Senior Landscape Architect

Teresa Kennedy

Senior Landscape Designer

David Lindberg

Meet The Rest OF Our Team

Awards & 
Recognition

Organization
Award
Year
Berkeley Design Advocates Award
Parklet on University
2019
Berkeley Design Advocates Award
School of the Madeline
2019
Berkeley Design Advocates Award
Chau Residence, Berkeley
2019
Berkeley Design Advocates Award
Comal Restaurant, Berkeley
2013
Berkeley Design Advocates Award
The Loretta and Alfred Suckling House
2012
Berkeley Design Advocates Award
John Hudson Thomas Home
2011
Berkeley Design Advocates Award
The Read Building
2010
Berkeley Design Advocates Award
Rose Street Townhouses
2006
Berkeley Design Advocates Award
Backroads Corporate Headquarters
2002
San Francisco Landscape Garden Show
Edifice Award
1998
San Francisco Landscape Garden Show
People’s Choice Award
1998
San Francisco Landscape Garden Show
Pacific Rim Award
1998
BAHA Award
1326 Scenic Ave. Risley Residence, Berkeley
1995
San Francisco Landscape Garden Show
Best of Show
1991
Houzz
Best of Houzz: Design
2013