Aesthetic pruning and immersive landscape design for outdoor spaces that are lush, living works of art.
Aesthetic Pruning
A Japanese-influenced approach that balances horticultural science with visual judgment, the goal of Aesthetic Pruning is to support long-term plant health while revealing the natural structure, movement, and character of each tree.
My practice focuses on ornamental conifers, Japanese maples, and fruit trees, though these principles can be thoughtfully applied to many trees and shrubs.
I bring formal training and years of professional experience to this work and am currently on the path toward certification through the Aesthetic Pruners Association (APA).
Done well, aesthetic pruning results in landscapes that feel composed, legible, and alive — where plants are not forced into shape, but guided toward their best form over time.
Additional Services
Landscape Design
Thoughtful design rooted in how a space is used, experienced, and lived in. I work with existing conditions — light, soil, circulation, and architecture — to shape gardens that feel cohesive, grounded, and personal. My designs evolve from observation and intention rather than trend or formula.
Soil Health
Healthy gardens begin below the surface. I assess and improve soil structure through testing, organic amendments, and biologically informed practices that support roots, microbes, and long-term resilience. The result is a living foundation that allows plants — and entire gardens — to thrive naturally.
Bespoke Garden Elements
I design and build small-scale, purpose-built features that integrate seamlessly into the landscape — from trellises and arbors to raised beds, edging, and structural accents. Each piece is made to support plant growth, define space, and age beautifully over time.
Seasonal Garden Stewardship
Ongoing care that responds to the changing needs of the garden throughout the year. This includes attentive pruning, plant health management, soil care, and subtle refinements that keep landscapes vibrant, balanced, and ecologically active across seasons.
Backyard Habitat Certification
I’ve been through the program myself and can help you convert part—or all—of your yard into a thriving habitat of native species. From design and plant selection to long-term care, I guide the process with an eye toward beauty, resilience, and sustainability.
About
I’m Stephen, the founder of Landkind. I believe good design belongs everywhere — from shaping the structure of a single tree to composing an entire landscape. Whether the canvas is small or expansive, the work is the same: careful observation, clear intention, and respect for what’s already there.
My approach grew out of years studying bonsai, where patience, restraint, and attention to structure are essential. Before Landkind, I worked as an advertising copywriter, crafting narratives and helping global brands find their voice. Over time, those same instincts — shaping, editing, and clarifying — led me from brand to branches and screens to soil.
Today, Landkind brings those threads together. Design-thinking paired with hands-on horticulture to create gardens that feel thoughtful, grounded, and quietly magical. Spaces that invite you to linger. To notice. To breathe.
What clients are saying…
“I just stare at the tree out the window now. I can’t believe the transformation and I’m so happy with it! Thank you.”
-- Davis
“Everything looks SO good, Stephen. we’re truly thankful to have gotten to work with you on this.”
-- Brandi & Zachary
