landscapes at the intersection of sanctuary and connection
Welcome to SVS Landscape Design, a small firm led by me, Sarah Van Sanden.
A passion for designing beautiful, practical outdoor spaces
The unique natural and cultural conditions of the Pacific Northwest and the broad-reaching impacts of climate change and urban development are undeniable forces on our landscape. I believe that between these realities lies fertile ground to explore resilience, beauty, and responsive transformation. These values are at the heart of my studio process.
As owner and lead designer, my work is to help socially- and ecologically-conscious homeowners develop low-maintenance landscapes that compliment their personal style while enriching their social and environmental surroundings.
Building instead of blocking healthy connections
Most of us lead busy, stressful, often challenging lives and look to our home spaces for relaxation and restoration. I believe fostering curiosity and connections—to place, to a rich network of other living beings, to our neighbors—provides more restorative benefits than constructing fortresses to the outside world.
Creating a container for appreciation of the fleeting moments that engage our sense of wonder
My first line of business is to build a foundation of trust and clear communication with my clients. I listen deeply and bring years of expertise, technical knowledge, and creative problem solving to the challenges of each project.
Meanwhile, I remain open to the shifts of seasonal change and cycles of life.
The resulting designs offer the right amount of clarity and order to highlight the beauty of the unexpected.
Are you ready to start this journey together? Contact me to discuss your project.
Sarah Van Sanden, Owner