About Us
Flowerchild Gardens is a landscape design studio, nestled in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area.
We listen closely to the needs and desires of our clients to make their vision for their outdoor space a reality. We take a thoughtful approach to design, blending Dry Mediterranean and English Style influences to create stunning landscapes that are not only visually appealing but also ethical, sustainable, and functional. We believe in preserving the legacy of heritage trees and property value, carefully assessing which elements should stay and what needs to go, ensuring a perfect balance in every project.
With a wealth of experience, we've had the pleasure of working with landscape teams at Bay Scenery, Common Grounds Garden, San Francisco Botanical Garden, Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden, Hakone Gardens, Pine House Edible Gardens, and numerous private residences in the SF Bay Area. Your property, no matter its size or style, is in capable hands with us.
Check out what's growing in Susan's own home garden, also known as the test garden to trial new plants for future design projects!
Meet Susan, Principal & Landscape Designer
Hey there! I'm Susan, and I've had the privilege of growing up in the sunny city of Los Angeles, which has made me truly appreciate California's incredible extended growing climate. Before landscape design, I had a background in digital experiences, working with brands like Nike, Walmart, L’Oreal, LG, Samsung, and more. My work and life experiences have taken me around the world, from LA to Sweden, Seoul, NY, and now, my forever place, the San Francisco Bay Area!
My design journey started at UCLA Design | Media Arts, where I began to explore my creativity. And deep into my first design career, I accidentally stumbled upon horticulture which led me to pursue studies at Foothill College and Merritt College. From there, I rode the wave and went from gardener to landscape designer to project manager to landscape designer again, most recently working for a design/build company, navigating permits and ensuring MWELO compliance. I also sometimes teach classes like the ones at Gamble Garden.
When I’m not in the garden, you can probably find me rock climbing. I'm mostly a boulderer but also enjoy getting on the rope!
With over 50 gardens designed in the Bay Area, 80% of which have been constructed, I'm always excited to take on new projects and design one-of-a-kind outdoor spaces!
Get to know me more
Education:
UCLA Design | Media Arts
Foothill College Environmental Horticulture & Design
Merritt College Aesthetic Pruning, Plant & Mushroom ID Classes
Ruth Bancroft Dry Garden Design Classes
ReScape MWELO (Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance)
ReScape Firescape Qualification Training
QWEL (Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper)
Work Experience:
Global design agencies & corporations - Staff (Digital products & services)
Jon Jeavons Common Ground Garden - Internship (Biointensive Edible Gardening)
Hakone Garden - Internship (Japanese Garden)
SF Botanical Garden - Internship (California Native Garden)
Napa Valley Reserve - Internship (Biodynamic Farming)
Pine House Edible Gardens - Staff (Edible Landscaping)
Lonely Little Petunia - Internship (Floral Design)
Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden - Staff (English & California Native Garden)
Bay Scenery - Staff (Residential Landscape Design w/ Permits)
Professional Affiliations:
APLD (Association of Professional Landscape Designers)
CNPS (California Native Plant Society)
Mediterranean Garden Society
“I had already hired a landscape architect, but I wasn't completely happy with what they did and their lack of involvement. Susan came in to help me review the plants and pick better alternatives. Her suggestions were original and at the same time kept in mind what kind of environment the plant needed to flourish. Susan really took the time to help. I would highly recommend her to anyone who is looking for a landscape designer.”
— Linda