top of page
IMG_7606.HEIC

Hello

I'm Sonia Hildebrand, and I look forward to collaborating with you to transform your outdoor space. My conceptual designs blend meticulous planting and hardscape plans, crafting a stunning palette—from native drought-tolerant landscapes to vibrant pollinator havens, serene woodland retreats, and sleek modern designs. My goal is to immerse you in nature’s beauty, right in your own backyard.

  • Yelp!
  • Instagram

My Story

The love of working with plants has been passed down through four generations of women in my family—beginning with my great-grandmother, my grandmother, and especially my mother. We are a lineage of women who know how to make a garden thrive.

Fueled by a deep passion for plants and nature, I pursued a degree in Conservation and Resource Studies at UC Berkeley. During my time there, I was actively involved in the campus garden, where I gained hands-on experience in growing edibles, designing pollinator-friendly landscapes, and applying permaculture principles. Collaborating with a diverse community, I learned how to bring creative visions to life.

Following my studies, I spent six years working as a designer and project manager for high-end residential landscape design/build firms along the California coast. Then, 17 years ago, after the birth of my first son, I transitioned to working independently, designing gardens in the East Bay ever since.

I approach every project with enthusiasm, crafting a harmonious balance of hardscape elements and carefully curated plantings tailored to each client’s unique preferences. Below are the key components I consider when designing your outdoor space:

Hardscape Design

  • Functionality – Every hardscape element is thoughtfully planned to ensure both practical use and a seamless flow throughout the space. This includes pathways, patios, decks, pergolas, seating areas, and any other desired features.

  • Aesthetic Appeal – The design will be visually cohesive, balancing symmetry, texture, and material choices such as flagstone, boulders, wood, concrete, and gravel to enhance the overall theme.

  • Kid-Friendly Gardens – As a mother of two boys, I understand how gardens evolve with family life. From sandboxes and treehouses to water play stations and later, hot tubs and lounge spaces, I enjoy helping families design gardens that adapt to their children's changing needs—without compromising beauty and functionality.

Planting Design

  • The planting plan will be customized to thrive in your specific climate and soil conditions, featuring a diverse selection of species. This may include native drought-tolerant plants, pollinator-friendly flowers, aromatic herbs, ornamental grasses, and edible plantings—all selected to create a vibrant, resilient landscape.

© 2035 by SHGD. Powered and secured by Wix

bottom of page