Category Archives: Client Reviews

Completed Project Novato

This project in Novato was part of larger remodel with a redone swimming pool, new pool deck with Calstone Pavers, and modern planters featuring Star Jasmine Espaliers to soften an existing privacy fence. We worked to integrate our new materials into the look of the interior remodel work that was already complete as well as tie materials from the front yard throughout the whole landscape.

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to O’Connell Landscape for their outstanding work. Their dedication, creativity, and attention to detail have truly transformed our outdoor space into a haven of beauty and tranquility. Each element of their design reflects their passion for their craft, and their expertise has exceeded all expectations. Thank you for bringing our vision to life with such professionalism and artistry. Looking forward to working with Michael and O’Connell Landscape again for our next phase!
-Jill & Denny Finnie, Novato

Completed Project- Novato Front Yard

This project in Novato near Marin Country Club took an older landscape with overgrown elements and transformed it into a modern spatially efficient new space. The existing front yard suffered without an entry way to front, an old driveway, and failing retaining walls in the back yard. We installed new floating concrete steps for the entry, replaced the driveway with new Calstone pavers and installed a new block wall to open utility space in the side yard. The result was a clean and thorough make over.

Post Installation Video

Before and After Images

East Petaluma Back Yard Reboot

This project in Petaluma was an update of an older back yard in need of a facelift to make it more usable and replace some tired elements.

We installed a new porcelain bluestone patio, overlaid bluestone over existing concrete paths and steps, installed a new lawn with subsurface irrigation, built two large redwood planter boxes, and installed accent lighting and a fountain.

We had a great experience working with Michael and his team at O’Connell Landscape. We engaged O’Connell Landscape to renovate our front and backyard and couldn’t recommend the Company enough. From the outset, Michael’s approach was organized and detailed with proposal, planning, and execution. We appreciated his communication cadence and found the whole process to be very transparent. Michael’s crew were easy to work with and we appreciated their attention to detail. The final product far exceeded our expectations. We would work again with O’Connell Landscape in a heartbeat.

-Leah Blue, Petaluma

Completed Project- San Rafael Eichler

Sometimes new projects are just fun. That was the case with this install in San Rafael. I had gone to school with one of the homeowners, and they were excited and ready for the whole process. We started with a huge ugly concrete patio in the rear of this San Rafael Eichler. The goal was a more modern and kid friendly back yard. We designed a layout that incorporated beautiful Kronos Bluestone tile, combined with a renovated drainage system, synthetic turf, new planter boxes, and connecting paths. The work made the view from the large rear windows transformed.

Working with O’Connell Landscape to complete our back yard renovation was an incredible experience through and through. Michael and his team were prompt, professional, and thoughtful about every detail. Michael has such a creative eye for design and his masterpiece came to life beautifully. We needed EVERYTHING done, from drainage to root removal to hard scapes to artificial turf and garden installation. They proved to be experts with it all. I can’t rate them high enough. You won’t be disappointed!

Shanee & Josh, San Rafael

Completed Project- Novato

This project stared with a beautiful but unrefined setting right on Novato creek. Years of overgrowth and neglect minimized the property’s potential and beautiful natural setting. We developed a design incorporating a new back yard patio and firepit, natural stone water feature, dry laid retaining walls, new drainage, and flagstone pathways. The result is an inviting yard that welcomes you into a the unique creekside property.

Working with O’Connell Landscape was the best experience I have ever had working with a residential contractor. They completely exceeded my expectations in terms of the design, the experience and the result. After moving to a home on Novato Creek, we wanted to reclaim our yard from a jungle of ivy and untended plantings, level it out, improve the drainage, and create a beautiful, useable yard.

We wanted the project to include a patio, fire pit, sitting wall, paths, attractive retaining wail, and fountain. O’Connell gave us a design that incorporated all of our ideas, and worked with us to bring it into our budget. Once the job started and we inevitably wanted some changes, they gave us immediate feedback on the exact cost so we could make informed decisions.

As the job went on, I realized that they had incorporated small design elements that made the yard even more beautiful than I had imagined. They worked on the yard consistently, never abandoning it to work on other projects, and got it done before Christmas, which I had hoped for but not expected. After the job they walked us through the yard to provide information on running the systems and maintaining the plants, and gave us written information and a video.

Micheal O’Connell was easy to reach, very responsive, and the team was great. I can recommend them with no reservations.

-Alexa Foster

Completed Project- Petaluma Bluestone Tile

This project in West Petaluma was looking for a facelift for some old concrete and tile. The previous owners had installed Southwestern tones in the existing concrete and orange tile, whereas the client was looking for a different look. We retrofitted the existing rear terrace, patio, and front courtyard with new Kronos Bluestone tile and a phased landscape (to comply with water restrictions) to match. The result was a completely transformed look and front entry.

When I contemplated re-doing my worn out yard I knew I needed a firm that could manage a complete design-build project. Michael O’Connell of O’Connell Landscape exceeded all of my expectations.

Michael is a pleasure to work with; talented, responsible, honest, attentive to detail and completely trustworthy.

Michael used technology from the outset, filming my complete yard and emailing me a visual, verbal commentary of the planned work on each section of my property. (Who does that?!). He deftly managed my project from the initial consultation through ongoing work until completion. He has an eye for design and a command of all materials, organic and inorganic and the knowledge to bring a project through to completion and on budget.

His crew is highly skilled, also attentive to detail, and pleasant to have around.

Michael performed a miracle with my yard! I can whole-heartedly recommend Michael and O’Connell Landscape.

-Jean, Petaluma

Completed Project- Petaluma Compound

This project in central Petaluma was a referral from the client’s sister, whose project we had completed a few years earlier. The site was a multi-home family compound with some significant family history. The existing yard had become outdated and the homeowner was looking for more usable space for entertaining, while have something low maintenance. We developed a plan that incorporated a large paver patio, custom stone seat wall and steps, secondary seating area with Yardistry pergola, water feature, vegetable boxes, lights and connecting paths.

I had a very vague concept of what I wanted for my backyard re-do. Michael O’Connell, with O’Connell Landscape, met with me several times to get an idea as to my future plans with my yard. He came up with a plan that outlined what I wanted, was within the budget I set, and perfectly matched the surrounding areas of our family property. Prior to the commencement of work, Michael and I met several times to review the plans to ensure a smooth start to the project.

During the project, Ruben and Ubaldo were there every day! They were friendly and answered all my questions. The attention to detail was amazing to watch as the work progressed.

My project took 3 months, and it was seamless. My yard is beautiful, and I feel I’ve added another room to my house.

I recommend O’Connell Landscaping to anyone who is looking for a trustworthy, friendly, and detail-oriented company.

-Natale Dougerty, Petaluma

Completed Project- Santa Rosa

For this front yard project in Santa Rosa, the challenge was to take a tired front lawn and boxwood hedge and turn it into something more captivating and low water use.

To accomplish this we removed an old concrete pathway and installed a new curving paver entry walkway with inlaid boulders from an adjacent dry stream bed. At the entry a new Bluestone porch with space for seating was installed.  Plantings focused low maintenance  selections that dramatically cut water use. In an effort to mitigate effects of the on-going drought, we limited the planting footprint of the property to key areas.

The result was a front yard that has drawn raves in the neighborhood and will continue to mature and grow into something special.

We used O’Connell Landscape to reimagine our front yard. This was our second project with the O’Connell team. 

One of the main attractions of using O’Connell Landscape is that they are a design build firm. This is much less hassle than dealing with two separate firms. Another advantage of working with a design build firm is being able to quickly accommodate design changes and the unexpected. 

The design phase is made easier because not only does Michael have wonderful creative ideas but he welcomes your input as well. He also will gently tell you if your ideas are unworkable or could be improved upon. 

OCL provides detailed quotes. Working with Michael we were able to figure how much to do in this phase. Additionally, the change orders were minimal. 

The OCL build team are true craftsmen in all aspects of landscaping, including grading, paver installation, concrete and planting.  The build phase clicked along like clock work and was finished when projected. 

Professionalism and excellent communications are evident throughout. Michael keeps his team and the client up to date. You always know where you are schedule and budget wise. When completed you receive a booklet on all your systems (e.g., water, lights) and how to care for the plants. 

In summary the project finished on time and in budget. It was professionally executed. We are delighted with the outcome.

-Sylvia & Jim, Santa Rosa

Design, Before & After Images


Drought Resistant Plantings from this Project
From our Awesome Plantmaster Database

Intimate and Modern East Petaluma Installation

This renovation in Petaluma took an existing landscape and gave it a modern refresh. We installed new woodwork, including trellises and a Pacific Woodworks Gate, saw cut an existing concrete path to make it a modern focal point, and redid the back yard with patio, bluestone and synthetic turf. The result is a new landscape that integrates and updates the existing elements well.

Working with Michael at O’Connell Landscape (OCL) was an absolute pleasure. He was extremely knowledgeable about every aspect of the work, collaborative, always managed our expectations, and used technology (website photo surveys, online forms, etc.) to roll thru the design process efficiently. OCL may not be the least expensive option out there, but if you want extremely professional work with an eye for quality control and responsiveness, you will find it here. He was able to make our vision into a reality that extended our usable space outdoors. We will definitely be working with OCL again!

-Matt Johnson, Petaluma

East Petaluma Country Garden

This large corner lot in East Petaluma started with a blank slate, save a prominent chicken coop that was to be one of the anchors of the new garden’s design. We focused here on a creating an open and low maintenance yard that would be good for entertaining and would knit with recent renovations of the old farmhouse on site.

We installed a large paver patio, which in future phases will feature a pergola and outdoor barbecue. Off the patio is a large synthetic grass area with a seating circle for a firepit. We integrated these elements with hog panel fencing, low maintenance mediterranean plantings and several fruit trees. At the entry a second area of turf was installed with a tiered fountain that provides white noise.

I cannot recommend Michael O’Connell and his team enough. All of the work was done with the utmost integrity from start to finish. He was meticulous, organized, and knew exactly what I needed for my property. His depth and breadth of knowledge of agriculture, landscape, and carpentry is impressive. The transformation of my property was incredible. I started with a dirt lot and now I have an oasis I can relax in and enjoy every day. While he may not be the cheapest, he was worth every cent. I highly recommend you to contact him for landscaping.
-Anna DiGrande, Petaluma

 

Video- After Installation

Video- During Installation

 

Completed Project- East Petaluma Landscape Renovation

This compact front and back yard in East Petaluma was in need of a make-over after the builder installed landscape had run it’s course.

We replaced the existing lawn with low maintenance synthetic turf, expanded the patio with porcelain pavers to compliment the house and added a new vegetable garden area.

In the front yard a new rock garden style landscape of low maintenance succulents and mediterranean plants completed the renovation.

“We’ve been admiring the yard all afternoon as we set about cleaning things up and putting things away. The lights just came on and it was so wonderful to look out and see the olive tree & back wall illuminated as well as the front steps.

Thank you to you and your crew!  It’s Christmas, New Years and our birthdays all in one day!”

Completed Project- West Petaluma Versa-lok Wall

This year has been a roller coaster with the spring shut down, followed by an increase in project demand as folks spend more time at home. One of the nice surprises of 2020 is how many repeat client projects we have done this year. We have installed 6 projects for past clients as part of new phases or remodels of their landscapes.

This project in Petaluma featured a repeat client who downsized into a smaller home. We installed a new Versa-lok retaining wall to open up some additional space in their yard; renovated the existing irrigation system and installed new turf and a seating area in this preliminary phase.

This is a repeat performance (second home and landscape project) with O’Connell Landscape and we couldn’t be happier.  The first project resulted in an award-winning yard (which undoubtedly helped in last year’s sale).  In our current down-sized home we didn’t hesitate to call Michael and his crew, the same men were we worked with 12 years ago.  They transformed an overgrown yard into an attractive, low maintenance, functioning living space.  They offered detailed fore-thought, responsive collaboration, and quality implementation. We can’t recommend Michael and his team highly enough.
-Sharon & Mike Morgan, Petaluma

 

Completed Landscape- Cotati Paver Patio

Sometimes a simple installation can result in the most profound transformation of an existing yard. This was the case for this patio installation near Helen Putnam Park in Cotati. The owners had removed an existing deck and wanted a new paver patio and some grass redone to make the yard more usable. We settled on a classic Calstone Paver with some decomposed granite pathways to tie the areas together. The result was a clean and open new space.

The work you completed here was nothing short of amazing. From your initial consult and design, to the crew’s meticulous work, we are very pleased with the outcome!
-Darin, Cotati

Completed Landscape- San Rafael Eichler Back Yard

This mid-century style installation in Terra Linda focused on clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic. We took a tired back yard patio and lawn and renovated with a new patio, connecting paths, spa and shower area, and slab for a soon to be installed studio.

We were in need of a completely new look for our boring, rectangular, flat backyard. Of the design/build firms we contacted, Michael O’Connell of O’Connell Landscape was by far the most responsive, thoughtful and creative. He was familiar with our neighborhood and was interested in working with the mid-century design elements we were hoping to complement. He was willing to work with our rough, preliminary sketches and bring them up to a higher level.

The O’Connell Landscape team was exceptional. Since it was COVID-time, Michael had the same two highly skilled workers on the job, start to finish. They showed up every day at 7:00 and did everything from complete demo of two patios, tree, root, rock and dirt removal, to laying the DG pathways, setting the concrete forms, laying electrical conduit and all new irrigation, building the fences and an outdoor shower and all the plantings. They wore masks consistently and Michael provided two separate portapotties to ensure their safety.

Michael provided regular updates on the job and detailed invoices. He did not go over budget, except for the changes we wanted and approved. There were some unforeseen issues (an older, hidden concrete patio that had to demo-ed, for example) and he itemized the extra costs clearly and in writing. We just love our new yard. It is exactly what we wanted and the entire process was easier better-communicated than some of our other past projects.

-Dru Parker, San Rafael

Post Installation Video

Post Installation Images

 

Completed Project- East Petaluma Oasis

This project in Petaluma started with a yard that was in need of a clean slate and new vision. We created a design scheme that incorporated multiple use areas- a new patio, a firepit area and a vegetable garden, all tied together with a beautiful redwood pergola. Several accents, including boulders, a new fountain and low voltage lighting tied the front and rear yards and brought the whole project together.


Our experience with O’Connell Landscape from beginning to end was exceptional. Michael came to our house, listened to our thoughts and ideas and came up with the perfect design for our front and back yards. He took our ugly, weed infested yards and created an oasis. Michael and his crew were very professional and super easy to work with. Any questions or concerns were addressed in a very timely manner. We can not express how much we love our new ”Shangri La”!
-Melanie & Russ, Petaluma

Completed Project Kentfield

This project was a complete demo and renovation of a deep lot on Sir Francis Drake Blvd in Kentfield. The design redeveloped the front of the yard with a privacy fence, driveway gate and auto court, providing a much need break with the street. In the back a large patio, deck, and softscape areas were detailed to transform and make the area more usable and kid friendly.

Michael and his team recently completed a complete renovation of our outdoor landscaping. We did extensive use of pavers, woodwork, lighting, drainage and of course planting. Michael is clearly very knowledgeable about landscaping and provided excellent advice on design and implementation. We are very happy with the quality of his work and his very reasonable pricing. Highly recommended!

-Loren, Kentfield

Custom Gate Project- Corte Madera

We just wrapped up this custom gate installation in Corte Madera. The homeowners wanted a nice architectural gate to match their remodel and front landscape. We installed a heavy timber gate framed with 4×4’s, 6×6 posts and powdercoated black hardware and wire panel inserts.

We reached out to O’Connell Landscape to bid on a large landscaping project for our home in Marin. They were the only firm willing/experienced enough to provide us with line item estimated costs, which was incredibly helpful in deciding how to move forward. When we decided to implement our project in phases, Michael was flexible and worked us into their schedule with only a short wait. We were so impressed with their work — it surpassed our (high) expectations in look, function and quality. They were mindful of every detail and it shows. When we had to make adjustments, they didn’t hit us with change orders and additional costs. They started and finished the project on time, were here every day, provided progress updates, and were generally so professional and pleasant to work with. We’ve worked with many contractors for our landscape and home, and these guys are as good as it gets! We look forward to working with them again on future projects.

-Dana McRay, Corte Madera

Completed Project- West Petaluma Back Yard

This back yard near downtown in West Petaluma had seen better days. The client wanted a complete refresh that would better use the ample flat space with a patio, vegetable garden and potting area, tied together with a water feature and lawn. The result was a much more engaging and usable space that created a new outdoor room off the residence.

Working with O’Connell Landscape has been a pleasure, they turned my once ugly back yard into a beautiful oasis where I could enjoy it for many years to to come. O’Connell Landscape has a wonderful dedicated hard-working crew and it was a pleasure working with them as well . I would definitely recommend this company to turn your yard from dreams into reality and to have a beautiful yard that you always wanted.

-Robin Matsumoto, Petaluma

2 Years After Installation

Before Photo and Post Installation

Completed Project- Santa Rosa

This project in Santa Rosa was the first phase of a two phase front and back yard installation. The back yard had been neglected and the clients who had recently purchased the home wanted to freshen up the space and make it more usable. We renovated some existing elements, adding to an existing patio space with the addition of a paver patio, installed a new vegetable garden, replanted, and upgraded some rear landings. Working with the owner we assisted to install a kit pergola that was the focal point of the new yard.

We hired O’Connell Landscape to re-design our backyard and improve drainage. Because they are a design-build company, the scheduling worked out perfectly. Once the design was completed we were able to start construction. Michael, the designer, was easy to work with and came up with a beautiful creative design. Best of all he was receptive to our input and the final result is even better than I had hoped for. His team was very organized and tidy while working on our property.
The whole experience was great. We already have plans for the front yard.

Completed Project- Peacock Gap

This completed project was a complete re-landscape of a front yard and rear pool area on a half acre off Peacock Gap Golf Course in San Rafael. We developed an all new front planting scheme, and new stone patios and usage areas in the back yard, highlighted by an Aqualens Fountain.

Michael O’Connell presented a very thorough design plan, continued to work with us and provide explanations as the project evolved, and his team maintained a clean job-site. We would hire him again in the future.

-Greg & Peggy Duick

Completed Project- D Street Petaluma

This project in West Petaluma was a refresh of a garden installation that was about 10 years old. We installed a new dry stream bed and connecting path, added privacy lattice, driveway access gate, and redeveloped all the planting beds.


We asked Michael to update our existing landscape and add some new elements. We had a fairly vague idea of what we wanted but Michael was able to create a design that brought to life exactly what we wanted. His design seamlessly blended the new elements with the refurbished existing elements and resulted in serene front and back yard areas that contain interesting focal points everywhere you look. The new elements are absolutely lovely and the work done to the existing elements made these look like new again. The dry creek bed and blue flagstone pathway he designed are just perfect. Michael’s crew have been with him for 10+ years and are all extremely knowledgeable, professional and reliable, especially Ubaldo, who executed Michael’s design beautifully. Michael took time to go over all the details, kept us informed on status and provided timely change orders as items were added to the wish list. All in all, Michael and his crew made the process fun and we couldn’t be happier with the results. We highly recommend O’Connell Landscape to anyone looking for a stress-free process and beautiful results in a timely manner.
-Marie Girolo, Petaluma

Completed Project- Petaluma Mediterranean Back Yard

This recently completed project was a front and back yard installation for a new home on the East Side of Petaluma. The site was a blank slate and we worked with the owner to create a new entertaining space in the back yard with strong Mediterranean influences. A new travertine patio and seat wall are highlights, with the center piece of a Jade water feature. A secondary seating area of Arizona flagstone with creeping thyme balances and softens the other half of the yard. The planting scheme was low maintenance focused with Fruitless Olives, Lavender, and Roses being highlights.

O’Connell Landscape is the best!

Working with Michael and his team made the entire landscaping experience positive and productive – and one that resulted in landscaping that was completed within deadline and is exactly what I had hoped for – and more.

My new home had nothing but clay dirt in the back with a few grasses planted by the building contractor in front. It has now been transformed into a warm and welcoming Tuscan landscape both in front and in back.

Throughout the design process, Michael was patient with my questions regarding hardscape materials, design, colors, and plantings. He was excellent at listening to what I wanted and incorporating those concepts into a realistic design. He was also extremely cognizant of costs and budget issues – I always knew the cost of any of my “ideas” – in other words, at the end of the day, there were no budgetary surprises.

Rueben and his crew are expert and knowledgeable at all that they do. They are diligent, experienced, hardworking, and competent. They were never intrusive or disruptive to the goings on in our household, and always cleaned up before leaving the project each day.

Michael managed the entire process throughout the life of the project, regularly checking in with Rueben and his crew on-site, all the while maintaining excellent communication with me. He was extremely helpful when it came to selection of materials and a garden fountain, always providing samples and identifying vendors that carried materials that were of interest to me. When the project was complete, Michael prepared and reviewed with me, a booklet listing all the plantings and materials used as well as complete garden care specific to my landscaping.

Working with Michael, beginning with design, to material and planting decisions, and throughout the actual build-out, was a seamless process and a huge plus.

My landscaping is beautiful – and it was an absolute pleasure working with Michael.

Jayne D.
Petaluma

 

1 Year After Completion

Before & After Construction

Completed Project- Cherry Valley, Petaluma

The old landscape in this Petaluma back yard had become severely overgrown and had been cobbled together over the years. The first step here was a good clean-up to remove all the excess vegetation. This exposed some extensive rock walls, which we rebuilt and complimented with new paver patios, walkways, seating area and vegetable garden boxes.

Thank you so very much for transforming our jungle of a back yard into a lovely, peaceful space. Your ability to modify what we had and attention to detail as you designed and built the new space was tremendous, and we know we will enjoy it for years to come. Please extend our thanks to your team- their work was exceptional.

Many thanks!

Amy and Thad Kenner
Petaluma

 

Completed Project- Middle Two Rock Petaluma Farm

This project on the Western edge of Petaluma took a large modern farm house and integrated a distinctive more modern planting plan to compliment the house. A large circular driveway dominated the front of the house and the outdated plantings there had seen better days. We designed a planting scheme focusing on ornamental grasses with accents of Olive Trees, Cork Oak, and Arbutus to transform the look of the front. New gravel walkways gave structure and framed the phase 1 implementation.

Michael is a true professional. He and his team are incredibly responsible, organized, detailed, honest, timely, and responsive. We hired O’Connell landscape to transform over two acres of farm property that had been left to waste for over a decade. The results exceeded our expectations, and we look forward to working with them again on future projects. Highly recommended.

– Joe Flannery, Petaluma

 

 

 

 

Completed Project- Large Petaluma Back Yard

This project in Petaluma by Helen Putnam Park was fun transformation of an existing large lot landscape. The homeowners had purchased the home new about 10 years ago, but the existing landscape was showing its age and didn’t fit their needs. We were brought in to look at the project with an existing landscape designers plans. While the plans were nicely detailed, they were too elaborate to be built to a reasonable budget. We worked with the client to develop a scaled back plan, which leveraged many of the initial design ideas, but in a way that was simpler and more elegant, while reducing cost.

The design featured several elements including large concrete patios and stepping stones, grass area, vegetable garden and shade pergola and seat well. Accents of zonable low voltage lighting, succulent garden with fountain, and firepit area filled out the design. We also regraded the property to level and better use the large lot footprint. The result was a nicely transformed and more usable space.

If we had to pick one word to describe O’Connell Landscaping, it would be EXCEPTIONAL.

We met Michael O’Connell when we were putting a design to bid from a different landscape designer. In working up the bid, Michael realized that the work as envisioned by the original designer could not possibly be completed within our budget. Rather than just submitting the bid like the other contractors, he took the extra step to tell us that he’d be happy to work with us on a new design that would better suit our needs and budgets.

Thus, began our wonderful experience with Michael and O’Connell Landscaping.

During the design phase of the project, Michael broke down every element of the original plan and quickly guided us through a decision-making process to prioritize what was important to us, what types of materials would work for us, and how those choices impacted our budget. I was amazed at how quickly Michael was able to narrow down the often-dizzying array of options and through a series of questionnaires and design reviews lead us to a final plan that included ALL of the major design elements from our original plan at a price that met our budget.

The construction phase of the project was equally efficient and enjoyable. The O’Connell construction crew was wonderful—very respectful of our property, our neighbors, and our family—and completed the project on-time and on budget. Ruben, the lead on the project and a master at the art of using a Bobcat, has been with O’Connell for more than 30 years, a further testament to the quality business Michael O’Connell operates. Both Ruben’s and Ubaldo’s experience and skill definitely showed through in our finished project—expertly framed pergolas, beautifully crafted seat walls, exceptionally constructed fences and gates. Michael’s choice of sub-contractors was equally exceptional, with three colored-concrete patios that have literally caused our guests to gasp at their quality. Michael was frequently on-site during the course of our 20-week project, reviewing progress, answering questions, and otherwise making us feel that we were his company’s top priority.

To say that the finished product exceeded our wildest hopes would be an understatement—an absolutely remarkable transformation of our backyard and an absolutely wonderful experience with O’Connell Landscaping.

We couldn’t recommend his company more strongly.

-Jim and Amy Schwappach, Petaluma

Completed Project San Rafael

This front yard design and installation in San Rafael  focused on creating a new low maintenance, low water use garden to replace an existing front lawn. Because of the layout of the front entry for this project, a new paver patio was installed to create a courtyard space off the front entry path. We used McNear pavers for the hardscape, accented with a Bluestone landing over an exisiting concrete stoop.

Plantings focused on creating color, texture and interest while being easy to care for. New LED lights highlight the path and new patio space.

We highly recommend O’Connell Landscape. We are delighted with our new front yard which eliminated the dreaded lawn and replaced it with an easy care, drought tolerant, very attractive landscape. Michael provided a design that incorporated all the elements my husband and I wanted, and expert advice and infinite patience on all fronts: Hardscape, plants, lighting, irrigation and more. O’Connell Landscape has a very efficient and yet flexible mode of operation; deadlines and the budget were meet. The crew is extremely hard working and highly skilled in all areas: Foundation work, paver fitting, soil preparation, woodwork and lighting installation. There was excellent communication between the crew and/or Michael and the client. In our case, approval of the plan was required by a homeowner’s association. Michael provided the requisite documentation for this process; compliments were expressed by the HOA for the complete and professional plans. The overall care and attention that our project received from O’Connell Landscape was of the highest quality. It was a lot of fun to work with this company.
-Carol Mirenda, San Rafael

Completed Project- West Petaluma

We just wrapped up this front and back yard installation in West Petaluma (see progress photos here). The project featured a lot of interesting custom woodwork- new pergolas, all new fencing,  and custom Cedar accent gates. These complimented all new paving- a new colored concrete driveway, paver seating area, and rear paver patio. Accent lighting and a polished granite water feature served as accents, while a backyard BBQ included a new grill, fridge and Big Green Egg smoker.

California real estate is expensive…that’s why expanding our living space outdoors was so critical to my husband and me. We hired O’Connell Landscape to basically overhaul every square foot of our yard. This included hardscape, plantings, outdoor kitchen, water feature, drainage, lighting, fencing, gates and more. The end result exceeded our expectations and is a true example of craftsmanship you just don’t see that often. Michael was meticulous with the details and was a real pleasure to work with. Backing him up is the most respectful and hard working team we’ve experienced. At the end of every day, we walk out into our yard and pinch ourselves! Bottom line, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend O’Connell Landscape.
-Cindy Jepsen, Petaluma

Completed Project Cotati

This front and back yard project in Cotati focused on new spaces around a recently constructed home. The front yard had some previous landscaping that was not cohesive and didn’t create a sense of entry or curb appeal. The back yard was a gentle slope with little existing landscape that needed a plan to best utilize the space. Our solution for the front yard was a split rail fence and new focus on an existing majestic Valley Oak. In the back yard a new series of spaces with seating areas, large garden area, and firepit with swing were highlights. See before and after images and design drawings below.

We are extremely pleased of what Michael O’Connell helped us achieve in our front, side and backyard.

He listened to our ideas and with his, designed a wonderfully enclosed vegetable garden, which includes a greenhouse and water feature, planned out seating areas for our family and his placement of lighting is absolutely beautiful in the evenings.
This was truly a team effort. And we very much appreciate his staff of workers who were friendly and knowledgeable of all tasks asked of them. They stayed on track and cleaned up each day.

Great selection of drought tolerant plants were chosen with just the right blend and size that will produce color for year round enjoyment.

Thank you Michael for all your advice and making yourself available to answer our questions evenings and weekends.

-Gary and Tina Ibello

Post Installation Video- 2020

Post Installation Images

Completed Project Petaluma

This project in Petaluma reinvented an older front yard that had been overgrown, junipers taking over the front yard. A new interior courtyard was installed with dividing fence connected with colored stamped concrete throughout.  LED low voltage lighting and a front water feature complimented new plantings and accents of natural stone.

It was an absolute delight to work with Michael and his team. He was always available and very knowledgeable about all aspects of landscaping our front yard. Deadlines were always met and the workers were always on time and left everything neat when they left for the day.

The price was always broken down so I knew what each item cost. I would highly recommend O’Connell Landscape and Michael to anyone. Michael made the job seem so easy and effortless and he followed up after the job was completed to make sure everything was working correctly. I only wish all contractors were as friendly and as easy to get along with as Michael.

Carol Sikora, Petaluma

Completed Project- West Petaluma

The landscape design and installation for this distinctive Victorian in West Petaluma was focused on improving the usability of a large 1/4 acre corner lot.

The project featured:
– New exterior picket fencing to reclaim the front yard spaces, while fitting in with the neighborhood.
– At the side yard a large hedge of mature 24″ box Pittosporum shrubs was used as screening to expand the back yard space.
-New redwood fencing was installed at the neighbors to provide for greater privacy.
-The landscape was integrated with a new irrigation system with laundry to landscape greywater system.

We absolutely loved working with Michael and his team on landscaping for our new home in Petaluma. Everyone of the team was very professional. Michael paid attention to all the details of design, budgets, contracts, schedules and overall customer service. All budgeted items and schedules were met. He was responsive to our questions nights and weekends and followed up on everything. We highly recommend them.

-Courtney and Peter Phleger