




Nu Scape Designs creates custom, low-maintenance landscapes tailored to Southern California's climate. Led by Donna Hamner, we specialize in drought-tolerant designs that are both beautiful and water-wise.
⭐ 86% Recommend (6 Reviews)
🌿 Custom Landscape Design
💧 Drought-Tolerant & Water-Wise Solutions
Nu Scape Designs — Where Function Meets Beautiful Landscape Design
Nu Scape Designs is a professional landscape design company founded on the belief that outdoor spaces should be both beautiful and functional. Led by owner and lead designer Donna Hamner, we specialize in creating custom landscape designs that enhance curb appeal, improve usability, and add lasting value to residential properties.
At the heart of our process is listening—understanding how a space will be used, the client's lifestyle, and the unique characteristics of each property. We believe great landscape design starts with understanding your needs and vision.
Donna is known for her practical, thoughtful designs that balance aesthetics with sustainability. Her work incorporates climate-appropriate plant selections, efficient irrigation solutions, and low-maintenance layouts that thrive in Southern California's environment. Every design is carefully planned to ensure long-term success, beauty, and ease of care.
Thoughtful Design for Lasting Landscapes.
Whether refreshing an existing landscape or designing a new outdoor space from the ground up, we deliver designs that are welcoming, functional, and tailored to each client's needs. We take pride in clear communication, honest recommendations, and personalized service from concept through completion.
Your outdoor space is an extension of your home—and at Nu Scape Designs, we design it with intention.
At Nu Scape Designs, we combine creativity with climate-smart planning to design outdoor spaces that enhance your property's beauty, functionality, and long-term value.
Personalized landscape plans designed for your lifestyle, property, and Southern California climate.
Transform existing landscapes into functional, beautiful outdoor spaces with updated layouts and plantings.
Climate-appropriate, drought-tolerant plant choices that thrive year-round with minimal maintenance.
Efficient irrigation systems that conserve water while keeping your landscape healthy and vibrant.
Sustainable landscape solutions designed to reduce water usage without sacrificing beauty.
Walkways, patios, borders, and outdoor features that add structure and usability to your space.
Practical designs that reduce upkeep while maintaining curb appeal and functionality.
Functional outdoor areas designed for relaxation, entertaining, and everyday enjoyment.
Explore completed landscape designs that showcase thoughtful planning, climate-smart plant selections, and functional outdoor spaces. From custom landscape designs and drought-tolerant gardens to irrigation upgrades and outdoor living areas, our portfolio reflects our commitment to creating landscapes that are both beautiful and built to last.
This backyard was transformed from a 35-year-old challenging yard with drainage issues into relaxing, low-maintenance outdoor spaces. Features include decorative pebbles and rocks, easy-lift faux rock covers for wires, low fencing to hide pipes, modern garden hoses with decorative pots, and a design that is easier to maintain while remaining visually appealing.
This property received a landscape upgrade with creative, unusual plant varieties, integrated outdoor lighting, and thoughtful layouts. The design balances beauty and functionality while reflecting the client’s style and enhancing the overall outdoor living experience.
This backyard was completely redesigned with artificial turf, pavers, and a spa installation. The project created a functional and visually stunning space for relaxation and entertainment, with a design that maximizes usability while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
This project focused on bringing the client’s dream garden to life, incorporating color-coordinated plant selections, lighting, water features, and hardscape elements. The result is a harmonious and sustainable outdoor space that blends beauty with practicality.
This property received a comprehensive front and backyard landscaping project. The design included custom layouts, plant selection, and hardscape elements that exceeded client expectations, creating functional, inviting, and visually cohesive outdoor spaces.
This backyard received a complete turf installation, creating a lush, low-maintenance lawn that complements the existing landscape. The project included proper grading, efficient irrigation, and thoughtful integration with hardscape elements to maximize usability and aesthetic appeal.
Our reputation is built on personalized service, honest communication, and designs that stand the test of time. Here's why homeowners throughout Southern California rely on us:
Every landscape is tailored to your lifestyle, property, and vision—no cookie-cutter solutions.
Drought-tolerant plants and water-wise irrigation designed specifically for Southern California.
Clear recommendations, realistic timelines, and transparent guidance from start to finish.
Designs built to thrive with minimal upkeep while conserving water and resources.
From plant selection to layout planning, every element is carefully considered for long-term success.
Outdoor spaces designed to be lived in, not just looked at—balancing aesthetics with usability.
Landscape Projects Completed
Years of Design Experience
Satisfied Clients
Rating Across Google & Facebook
Nu Scape Designs is known for thoughtful, personalized landscape designs and honest recommendations. Here's what clients love about working with us:
Stay updated with practical landscape design tips, water-wise gardening insights, and project-planning advice. Our blog shares real guidance from Donna Hamner, with hands-on experience designing outdoor spaces throughout Southern California.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN • July 05, 2024 • 1 min read
I'm Donna from Nu Scape Designs. With years of experience in landscape design, I've learned that beautiful, water-wise landscapes start with smart plant selection. Here's how we create stunning outdoor spaces that thrive in Southern California's climate.
Why Drought-Tolerant Plants Work
Southern California's climate demands smart plant choices. The good news? Water-wise doesn't mean boring. Drought-tolerant plants can be just as colorful and lush as traditional landscaping—without the high water bills.
Top Plant Picks for Southern California
Lavender - Fragrant purple blooms and silvery foliage that thrives in heat
Agave - Bold architectural presence with zero fuss
Mexican Feather Grass - Soft, flowing texture that adds movement
Kangaroo Paw - Vibrant blooms in red, yellow, and orange
Rosemary - Evergreen structure with blue flowers and culinary use
Quick Design Tips
Layer different heights for visual interest
Group plants by water needs for efficient irrigation
Use 2-3 inches of mulch to retain moisture
Mix textures and colors for year-round appeal

WATER-WISE LANDSCAPING • August 12, 2024 • 2 min read
From poor plant placement to inefficient irrigation, many landscaping problems are preventable. Here's what we see most often and how Nu Scape Designs helps clients avoid costly mistakes and create landscapes that last.
Mistake #1: Wrong Plants for the Climate
The Problem: Choosing plants that need constant watering or can't handle Southern California heat.
The Fix: Select drought-tolerant, climate-appropriate plants that naturally thrive here. If a plant needs constant attention to survive, it's the wrong choice.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Mature Plant Size
The Problem: Small nursery plants grow larger than expected, blocking windows or crowding walkways.
The Fix: Always plan for mature size. That cute 1-gallon shrub might become 6 feet wide in a few years.
Mistake #3: Inefficient Irrigation
The Problem: Sprinklers watering sidewalks, overspray on buildings, or mixing high and low water plants on the same zone.
The Fix: Design irrigation zones based on plant needs. Use drip systems for garden beds. We often see water bills drop 30-50% after upgrades.
Mistake #4: No Design Plan
The Problem: Random plant purchases create a cluttered, disjointed look.
The Fix: Start with a comprehensive plan that considers the entire property and creates cohesive flow. It actually saves money by preventing do-overs.
Mistake #5: High Maintenance Designs
The Problem: Choosing plants or layouts that require constant care you don't have time for.
The Fix: Be realistic about maintenance. Design with low-maintenance plants and efficient layouts that don't need a full-time gardener.

OUTDOOR LIVING • September 18, 2024 • 3 min read
A major landscape project can feel overwhelming, but with the right designer and plan, it becomes a smooth transformation. Here's how to start strong and create an outdoor space you'll love for years to come.
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Get clear on what you want before contacting a designer.
Ask yourself:
What problems need solving? (dead lawn, wasted water, no privacy)
How will you use the space? (entertaining, relaxation, low maintenance)
What's your budget range and timeline?
Write it down. Clear priorities keep projects focused.
Step 2: Assess Your Property
Take an honest look at what's working and what isn't.
Consider:
Sun exposure throughout the day
Drainage and water pooling
Current irrigation efficiency
Existing plants—what's thriving vs. struggling
Condition of walkways and borders
Pro Tip: Take photos from multiple angles to share with your designer.
Step 3: Set a Realistic Budget
Landscape costs vary based on scope and materials. Budget for design fees, plants, irrigation upgrades, hardscape, and installation labor.
It's better to phase a project thoughtfully than cut corners. A good designer can create a staged plan if needed.
Step 4: Find the Right Designer
Look for someone who:
Listens first, recommends second
Knows Southern California's climate
Communicates clearly about costs and timelines
Has a strong portfolio of completed work
Red flags: Pressure tactics, vague pricing, no clear plan, limited plant knowledge.
Step 5: Review the Design Plan
A professional design should include site plans, plant lists with specifications, irrigation layouts, material details, timeline, and itemized costs.
Don't be afraid to ask questions or request changes. This is your landscape.
Step 6: Prepare for Installation
Clear the work area, communicate with neighbors, ensure crew access, mark utilities, and stay available for questions.
Step 7: Maintain Your Investment
Follow establishment watering guidelines, monitor irrigation, handle seasonal maintenance, and address issues early.