About Us

Our Origin Story
…and why we do what we do for you

About Us

Our Origin Story
…and why we do what we do for you

 Landscape as Extension of Architecture

Opulands is a Bay Area design-build landscape firm dedicated to crafting outdoor environments grounded in structure, proportion, and long-term performance.

We approach each project with clarity and discipline — ensuring that design intent, material selection, and construction execution align seamlessly from beginning to end.

Landscape is not decoration.
 It is architecture carried outward.

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Philosophy

Every site presents constraints and opportunities — grade shifts, light exposure, spatial relationships, and architectural language.

Our work begins by studying these conditions carefully.

We design and build with attention to:

  • Scale and proportion
  • Structural integrity
  • Material longevity
  • Cohesion across disciplines

Hardscape, planting, lighting, and carpentry are considered together — not as separate scopes, but as a unified system.

Integrated Design-Build Practice

Opulands operates as a fully integrated design-build firm.

This structure allows us to:

  • Align budget and feasibility early
  • Resolve technical details before installation
  • Coordinate trades with precision
  • Protect the integrity of the original design

Integration reduces friction and elevates the final result.
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From CLCA award-winning installations to features in leading design publications, our reputation speaks to the caliber of our work.

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Steven van Dongen

Company founder

Founder & CEO

  • Opulands is led by Steven van Dongen, a formally trained landscape designer whose work bridges architectural vision and disciplined construction.
  • With a degree in landscape design and a background influenced by European design principles — where proportion, structure, and craftsmanship are foundational — Steven approaches each project with both aesthetic sensitivity and technical precision.
  • He remains directly involved throughout every phase, ensuring continuity from initial concept through final installation while preserving design intent and structural integrity.
  • The philosophy is straightforward: landscapes deserve the same rigor, proportion, and long-term consideration as the homes they surround.

Collaboration

We collaborate regularly with architects and landscape designers across the Bay Area.

Our role is to translate drawings into built form — preserving intent while resolving structural realities in the field.

Design professionals value our technical precision.
 Clients value our accountability.

 Craft & Execution

Construction is where discipline becomes visible. We emphasize:
  • Structural preparation before finish work
  • Precise masonry and carpentry
  • Clean site management
  • Coordinated sequencing across trades
Durability is not incidental — it is engineered. A well-built landscape should endure both visually and structurally over time.

Recognition

 

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CALIFORNIA LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION

The CLCA has recognized Opulands with multiple awards for landscape construction, including its peer-judged annual honor for best residential design-build project under $150,000.

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BELGARD AUTHORIZED CONTRACTOR

To become a Belgard Authorized Contractor, a company must have their projects inspected to meet or exceed stringent quality of workmanship requirements. Companies are also required to attend ongoing specialized training for all employees. 

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HOME ADVISOR SCREENED & APPROVED

Opulands has earned the “Best of Houzz” award for five consecutive years!

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BAY FRIENDLY QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL

Companies with this qualification have completed thorough training on water conservation, best practices for weed & pest management, greenhouse gas reduction, and more.

Engagement

We specialize in comprehensive outdoor environments where design and construction operate as a cohesive whole.

If you are planning a considered landscape investment and value structured execution, we welcome the opportunity to discuss your project.

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Begin the Conversation

Schedule a Discovery Consultation to explore your project with clarity and intention.
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Questions or early ideas?

Share a few details and we’ll follow up with next steps. Designer referrals can start here as well.

A few details are all we need to get started. We’ll follow up shortly.

Considering a complete landscape remodel? You can also reach us using the project inquiry form →

Phone: 408-715-3996

Phone consultations are are by appointment. If you prefer, you may schedule an intro call here →