California Smartscape

Everything went very well on time and according to plan. Very nice and professional work.

Andrew, Richard, Scott, and Bridget were great! We went into the bid unsure that we wanted a full-service landscaping company to handle our yard - thinking we might instead save some $ by managing things ourselves. But their proposal was a game-changer for us, and from the beginning they were very receptive to working with us on parts of the plan that were important to us. One of these was of course the cost, and we worked together with creative ideas to manage costs while maintaining the design (like some work we will finish up on, but appropriate space or pipes, etc. was installed for us to do this easily). Other areas that we didn't have strong feelings about were managed for us, and we felt all along like we were getting great professional advice and service. The job went really smoothly, and was finished in 2 weeks, with the original quote being 2.5-3 weeks. We had good interactions with all the workers on-site, and felt like our questions or concerns were quickly addressed or passed up the chain of command for further communication. We had only one change order come up during the construction, and felt like this was very reasonable for unanticipated added cost. We're really thrilled that we went outside our comfort zone and had Andrew and CA Smartscape do our whole yard project. The cost was likely higher than if we had tried to piece this together ourselves, but the design is beautiful and cohesive, and has in two weeks changed our outdoor space dramatically. The neighbors can't stop commenting about how great it looks, and they can only see half the work!

California Smartscape was referred to us by Rob Romero from Majestic Pools. The two companies worked very well together to build pool and do the landscaping. Jesse listened to what we liked in terms of landscape and came up with an initial plan. With a few changes, it was just what we wanted. They provided us with blueprints that helped getting our home owner?s association approval. Jay had a schedule for us at the start of work and stayed on schedule through to the end. The work crews were super-nice and were specialists in what we needed ? pavers, irrigation, drainage, and plant selection. Overall we are very happy with them; felt we got good value for the price, and would hire them again if we needed more landscaping done.

The tech stopped by the place to look at the issue. I already knew the valve was broken because it was spraying water all over the place. He gave me a price (the cost was a little higher than typical because there was a lot of root growth they had to address) and they did the work within a week.

California Smartscape was great! From the beginning, they were on time, friendly and professional. I called on a Sunday and received a call on Monday morning. We scheduled a time to get together and Andrew created a vision that we are really happy with. Andrew spent time understanding what we wanted and he was available and responsive throughout the entire project. Once the project started, Tony and his team jumped right in. They were polite, hard working and did an amazing job! Tony really knows what he's talking about and was available for any questions we had. We are loving our front yard and I would recommend California Smartscape to anyone looking for an incredible transformation to their home or business. Thank you Andrew, Bridget, Tony, Jesus and the rest of the team!!

California Smartscape is a professional company and a pleasure to work with. Everyone from the Owner, Project Managers and entire staff and crew were courteous, dependable and organized. They provide expertise and knowledge to make the decision process as easy as possible. The software tools they used help us to understand how the changes would appear when completed. They provided 3D drawings for visual presentation. They explained the entire project and kept us informed as we stepped through the process. They understood our needs and worked with us to achieve our goal. The crew was always respectful. Our project completed in a timely manner, sooner than anticipated. The work performed was excellent and exceeded all of our expectations. The best review is the compliments we have received from our friends and neighbors. We will highly recommend California Smartscape to everyone. We now have a beautiful and peaceful sanctuary and look forward to creating new memories.

This is a complete start to finish company. Everyone involved was also friendly, professional and respectful of us. The Company was easy to work with and accomplished the initial plan and a number of additions by us within a reasonable time frame and their internal timeline. There were people working on our project everyday until the job was done. We were referred to the Company and after checking out the reviews here and elsewhere, we all met with Richard (an owner) and Jesse (designer) on site to discuss our desires and dreams. After meeting with us, they went back to the think tank and developed a overall design plan using software that allowed for an incredible visual complete with our dog and the two of us in the spa. Back at their office we later reviewed the design and the detailed cost proposal. We had a general idea of what some of the major additions would cost so our sticker shock was not life threatening. You usually get what you pay for and this company did not disappoint us. Throughout the project I would meet with Leo each morning to make sure I knew what was going on and to express any concerns that I had. Leo was very polite and understanding of what I am sure are very common questions and concerns of homeowners. Like I explained, they do this all the time but for the homeowner this is a one time deal so you want to make sure that you address the issue before the execution because some things are irreversible. For those days the construction of enhancing the patio support beams and building the spa "patio" roof, I would also talk with Blake who was also informative and polite. Besides these daily journeys into the world of construction, each week Richard, Bridget, Jesse and Eliel would meet with us at our house for a progress meeting and go over any concerns we had and equally important listen to the additional things that we would like to have done. Our questions and concerns were answered quickly in person, by phone, text or email. There is quite a bit of natural stone in our oasis and it was amazing to watch the craftsman cut and chip and grout slabs of stone into such a masterpiece. Eliel and Leo were absolute gems to work throughout the construction process to give us the oasis we have today. Each night the crew would clean and put away all their tools and materials as orderly as possible. Overall we are very pleased with the entire construction process and the visual outcome and would highly recommend this company to people who want a high quality job understanding that quality requires a fair price. None of us work for free and quality design, construction and installation is no different. Thank you to California Smartscape and especially everyone who worked on our project!

Jesse is the designer and we thought his design was FAR superior to other designs that were submitted. He really paid attention to what we were asking for, what we liked and disliked and came up with many ideas that we would never have thought about ourselves but were perfect for the space. His design was the reason we selected the company because their prices were about on par (maybe slightly higher) than most of the other landscape contractors we contacted. Once we started the project, Jay is the one that we dealt with day to day. Jay made sure that he was always available. He worked with a crew headed ably by Noel and the team was really fantastic. They showed up promptly at 8:00 in the morning and worked diligently up until about 6:00. All the workers are courteous and kept the site very very clean. Demo and cleanup took less than a week, then the fireplace and patio itself was built in about 2-3 weeks. The plants and irrigation followed and finally the decomposed granite path was built. The project took about 6-7 weeks to complete. Two things about this company that really make it stand out: 1) Midway through the project, we realized we would like more green and color. Jay and Jesse worked with us to incorporate more plants into the design. Then as the work was almost complete, my husband and I took a look around and realized that the decomposed granite pathway was too wide in places. Again, we just had to talk to Jay and he listened carefully and made the changes we asked for promptly. 2) A couple of weeks after the work was complete and the bill all paid, we realized that a couple of the plants were not thriving the area they had been planted. Also some of the trees planted along the fence were not getting enough water. Jay and team replaced the two dead plants at no charge. They came to look at the trees on the day after I called them, fixed the irrigation issue and told me that we would wait for a week and see if the trees were doing better and if not then they would replace the ones not thriving as well. Again this is all at no extra charge. They really stand by the quality of their work. We are thrilled with our new backyard and couldn't be happier with the service that Jay, Jesse and team provided us.

It was great! First of all, we love the plan and design that Andrew drew up for us. I don't think we changed a thing. They did everything they were contracted to do and it looks amazing! When they did encounter a problem or suggested something extra, they explained it clearly, offered suggestions and the cost adjustment. They never did anything without our permission. We are very pleased with our new yard and would use them again or recommend them!

From the beginning the employees were positive and professional. Andrew took our ideas into consideration, and with his own vision, designed a landscape option that fit our budget. Due to their software, he was able to provide us with a virtual design. Envisioning our project was a fun process! The crew and the foreman (Eliel) were always polite, informative, and worked very hard! The owner Richard, Bridget (office manager), Andrew (landscape architect), and Eliel (foreman) met with us first to go over initial estimate, make changes, and address concerns prior to starting the project. Bridget checked in weekly to ensure that things were going smoothly. I had contact numbers to each person in case I had questions or concerns. My calls and text messages were returned promptly. If there were any concerns that created additional costs, these options were thoroughly discussed to avoid any surprises at the end. The crew that installed the pavers did a beautiful job. They also installed a drainage system and irrigation. We chose the color and style of the pavers, and they chose the pattern. We were very pleased with the pattern they implemented! It looks really nice! As with any large project, there were some concerns that occurred along the way. These concerns were addressed. The positive energy these employees manifest help to de-escalate any stress. At the end of the project, Richard, Bridget, Andrew and Eliel did a final walk through. Again, they addressed any concerns that I had, and reassured that if concerns came up in the future to just give them a call. Overall, my experience with this company was positive. The remodel is beautiful from the pavers to the drought resistant (but, very pretty) plants. The only thing I would recommend is to thoroughly read up on pavers. There are a few things I have learned about them that I don?t like, but overall they are a great alternative to other hardscape options.

Little did Bridgette know that I do have a large scale project but I needed to test their business approach and workmanship. They clearly were not flexible or professional enough to set an appointment and bid on my projects. Little did they know I have two friends who respect my opinion waiting to see who I hire and recommend so they can work on their landscape. Please read the low grade California NotSo Smartscape reviews and you will see a consistency in over-inflated pricing (no discount unless you spend over $10,000??). You will also see a lack of communication, creativity and flexibility. They're obviously not interested in competing with other companies. I would not hire much less bother to contact them.

They were great to work with especially given the short time line we gave them to get the job done. From an initial meeting on May 12 until the deadline date of July 19, Jesse and Bridget met with us numerous times to understand our needs, our taste and our budget. They worked quickly and provided estimates and preliminary plans on schedule. The job encompassed an 8,000 square foot courtyard that was totally demo'd, including a large cement patio, vintage 1950s. They had to work around an existing 50 year old pine tree and develop a design to incorporate some large sculptures and potted cactus. The work included pouring a new cement patio, some slate work and steps to the house, two low stone walls to match existing work already in place, a drip/sprinkler system, electrical, fencing for both privacy and as a backdrop for the sculpture. Of course, there was a new plant/landscaping plan and they worked with us to gain approval on all the different plants, very sensitive to our taste and desires. The entire project was completed by the July 19 deadline and was ready for our son's birthday party on the 19 th. Their follow up after the completion date has been great, including the replacement of several plants. At times they had six guys on the job at once and they cleaned up at the end of each day. I have already recommended California Smartscape to two friends and would certainly use them again.

I worked with Andrew and Scott on re-landscaping my small backyard. They are polite and professional and really know their business. My project was estimated to take about 2 1/2 weeks and it was finished in under 2 weeks. Scott's crew were fantastic. Every night the work area was left clean. When I asked for minor changes, they were more than happy to comply. I am very happy with the finished project and would recommend them highly.

This provider did not perform any work for us. I called to schedule a consultation for a retaining wall in our backyard. I had to leave a message, because no one answered. I did get a call back, but the message left for me said "you are a bit out of our service range." Oh really? Cause you claim to serve all of San Diego based on the info and map listed under this provider on Angie's List. Apparently 20 miles from PB to Lakeside is "too far." I would not call this contractor again, based on the fact that their statements of work area are untrue.

Great job and a wonderful experience of having a renovation of a simple backyard to a amazing relaxing place to come home to. From the beginning to end of the job it was quick and painless, very professional company.

We went to a number of companies for bids on our backyard project, and California Smartscape got our business because 1.) of Jay Gardner's enthusiasm and integrity, and 2.) they showed us what they planned to do without charging us. Enter Jesse York. Jesse created his design using a 3-D model that exceeded our expectations, and honestly, our budget. Fortunately, we had gone through the "cost shock" with the other companies, so we knew what we were looking at wasn't out of line. After a few tweaks, we hit upon a design and cost that worked. And did it. All of this, before we gave them a dime. Before the project, our backyard was lovely, but the pool dominated, there wasn't enough comfy spots for sitting, it was extremely warm in the summer, and too cool in the "San Diego winter." Now, our backyard is our go-to place. Jesse's knowledge of design helped us create a space that had elements that we couldn't identify going in, because honestly, we couldn't see it beyond what was already there, and couldn't picture the possibilities. Once we rolled up our sleeves and nailed down what we wanted and where our financial line in the sand was, we hit upon a 3-D model of our backyard that amazed us. CA Smartscape served as our general contractor throughout the project, bringing in Majestic Pools/Spas and subcontracting with JPL Construction for our outdoor living space. Whenever we had questions or concerns, we went to Jesse or Jay, who then had answers or got answers. And sometimes they went beyond getting answers. There were times when our drainage problems became worse, and Jay spent his weekend digging out our side yard, making sure that water was flowing downhill. We cannot say enough good things about Jay. And Jesse's 3-D original design that we tweaked and signed off on is spot-on. It's not often that the beginning design looks just like the end result. The Bottom line: Jay Gardener is a man of his word and he follows through to make sure the job is right. Jesse is as good as Jay. He has a good eye and great design ideas. All the workers on the job were professional and easy to communicate with. They transformed our back yard into a beautiful resort. We couldn't be happier with the results.

After meeting with several landscaping companies and reviewer designs, we felt very comfortable with Richard and California Smartscape. Mark designed a beautiful pool and surrounding yard that captured many of our requests. When it came time to start, Bob made on-the-fly changes to accommodate what would look best and function well for what we were looking for. Once Bob's crew finished the hard-scape, Tony's crew completed the irrigation, planting and lighting. The crew were very polite, clean and accommodating. They even created an improvised walk-way during the rainy season for my in-laws while they stayed in our guest cottage. The crew completed our job quickly and worked well with our pool contractor (Majestic Pool & Spa). Having both team up at the start was the best decision we made. They were very accommodating to replace out trees and other plants that did not seem to do well. A great company with very experienced crew.

Our front yard was a mass of weeds. We are not gardeners and had ignored it for years. We are on a corner and the yard sloped from the front and side doors to the street. California Smartscape constructed a large raised patio/porch with blocks and pavers at the level of the doors. They designed a great stepped entry flanked by two lighted columns at the corner. The patio covered all but a strip about 5 feet wide around the edge. They landscaped that area beautifully and installed irrigation and lighting, using low maintenance plants which gave the tropical feel that we wanted. They were friendly, helpful and cleaned up at the end of each day. They even came back several months later when we thought we had a leak from the irrigation (we didn't, the water came from next door). This was the best contractor experience I have ever had.

It went extremely well. Came on time. Detailed a plan and we are good to go. Super guys!

We had a fabulous experience with California Smartscape from start to finish! Richard and his entire crew were dependable, fair, professional, responsive and talented in every aspect of the job. Richard and designer Allison spent the time necessary to determine what I wanted and what I could afford before starting the job. They really cared about my happiness and satisfaction. Allison's suggestions and ideas for plants and design were spot on. It looks wonderful - and all within budget. The workers were very polite and hard working and I could trust them to always make sure the gate was latched when they left at the end of the day. I appreciate that Richard and his team treated me with the utmost respect, even though I am sure mine was not one of their biggest or fanciest jobs, due to my budgetary constraints. Thank you to Richard and the entire crew at California Smartscape for my beautiful back yard! Our whole family is thrilled with the result!

California Smartscape did a great job designing and constructing our yard just the way we wanted it. I met with and obtained quotes from four contractors. Although California Smartscape didn't provide the lowest quote (they were second-lowest), I saw the great work they did for my neighbor and I liked the people I first met with - Jay, the owner, and Jesse, the project designer - so we decided to hire them. I'm confident we made the right choice in selecting California Smartscape. My wife and I are both demanding, but I think fair, clients - we know what we like and we like to get what we bargained for. Jesse did the design for our yard. He listened to what we wanted, drew up the plans, and discussed with us. We tweaked the design several times, both before and after we hired them, and Jesse was always willing to do what we wanted to ensure we would be happy with the end product. Once construction started, the work crew led by Brett kept the project moving and on track. The worksite was cleaned up at end of every day. If I noticed something that I wanted done differently or that I thought needed more attention, I raised it with Brett and he took care of it. Jay kept in touch with me throughout the two-month work period to make sure I was happy with the work. Jay got more involved onsite toward the end of construction. At that time, Eliel was also brought in to put finishing touches on the project. At all times, I was in contact with Bridget, their office manager, and she was my main point of contact for various items, including scheduling and billing/payment. The majority of the work was completed a couple months ago and Jay and Jesse have been great about addressing final "punch list" items that need attention/touch-up. I've worked with other contractors in the past whose approach to customer service changed after the client signed on the dotted line. That is definitely not the case with California Smartscape. All of the staff, from Jay to Jesse to Brett to Eliel to Bridget, are great to work with and put the customer first. I definitely recommend California Smartscape to help make your outside space a place you and your family can enjoy for years to come.

short conversation see above

Quick to reply and service was done in a timely manner. Friendly staff but in the end I felt it was a little overpriced for what I needed done, which were simply some design plans for my yard.

They came out -and quickly gave us a bid- which we did not accept.

I had another contractor do the job using a different landscape plan for $12,000 and more hardscape.