Testimonials

With our history of satisfied clients spanning more than thirty years, the following testimonials are a cross-section of experiences, emotions, and beautiful garden retreats enjoyed by the many people touched by our designs.

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"Our experience with the Garden Design team was wonderful. We chose Garden Design based on their reputation and the amazing portfolio of work. We couldn't be happier with the designs and how the plantings have matured. The team also spent added time to incorporate many of the plants from the original landscaping, saving us money. The spring and fall clean up work has also been outstanding.
We continually receive compliments on our landscape design, and we are thankful to Garden Design for making our home even more beautiful."
- Bill & Joyce Shirer

Garden Design Inc. was the perfect choice for our landscaping project. From the initial consultation with Frederick we knew we were in great hands. Frederick kept our budget, ascetic wants and design integrity of our home in mind during the planning stages. The installation team were equally as dedicated to the project and brought the design to life. Garden Design Inc. will be a large part of maintaining and improving our property for years to come.

-James Hayes

Garden Design Inc. created a fantasy children's garden that our children love to play in. They have designed an outdoor living space (under construction) that is already making us feel that we have our own little paradise. Their approach to design and implementation, including their attention to detail at all steps and frequent communications at all times made working with Joanne and team very rewarding. We could have not made a better choice.
- Nedim Altaras, Doylestown

Garden Design Inc. has created beautiful gardens as well as maintained them for the past 15 years. We take a lot of pride in the appearance of our grounds as do the Garden Design people when caring for our property. It is especially nice to receive glowing comments every time we have visitors.
- Jill and Hank Narrow, Allentown

I have hired Garden Design for two different properties. Both designs were outstanding, unique, functional and received many, many compliments! One highlight of the landscapes is such unusual and beautiful plants that are still so easy to maintain. We really enjoy our continual color and beauty through the seasons. For my second property, we had a single car drive and were constantly juggling our cars. In a relatively small space, the design incorporated a paver parking area and a seating area with gardens throughout which allowed for a gorgeous while functional entrance to our home.
- Suzanne Trautman

Garden Design created a beautiful border around the property line of our house that gives us privacy and a natural look that no fence could ever provide. I would highly recommend Garden Design to anyone who wants to take their home to next level.
- Jeff Newhard, Allentown, PA

When the walls of my in-ground pool collapsed, my dream of a Japanese garden would become a reality. After interviewing many landscape designers, I decided Garden Design understood my desire of peace and serenity afforded by such a garden. To my delight, a dream is now a refuge of total relaxation. Should one day I get ill, just wheel me into my garden and surly I will recover.
- L. Grossinger

I've been a Garden Design client since 2001. I approached Garden Design in search of a unique garden, pond and outdoor living space. I didn't want the ubiquitous cookie cutter landscape. They listened to my needs and incorporated everything I wanted into their design. Together they created a functional and absolutely beautiful outdoor living environment that I will enjoy for many years to come.
- Al Dandegian

I have enjoyed working with Garden Design Inc. for almost 20 years, both for my family's home and my place of business. In both cases, plans were developed by Garden Design, working to translate our wishes into practical, beautiful landscape development for the long haul. Today, all the work - plantings, hardscape, lighting - look better than ever!
- Ross Born, Bethlehem and Allentown, PA

Garden Design transformed an area we thought to be beyond hope into a beautiful outdoor extension of our home. Thanks to an innovative design and a knowledgeable, courteous and professional staff, we now spend every minute possible enjoying it. Thank you!
- Larry & Jan Klusza, Easton, PA

Our house in the woods was built without (oops!) an allowance for landscaping, but now, 20 years later, it is a graceful haven with a beautiful patio and lovely planted beds that we enjoy year round, thanks to Garden Designs. The "eye" for design that this firm brings to a project means that we have a unique view from inside our home and outside in the gardens, custom fitted to our needs and taste. We particularly enjoy our outdoor "room" in the warm seasons.
- Jennifer Scavuzzo, Zionsville PA

We have used Garden Design on numerous projects and have always been very satisfied. The design is creative and the quality of the work first rate. We will use them again without hesitation.
- Suzanne and Ted Lyons, Allentown, PA

"I have a passion for gardening and a varied landscape. I was a Master Gardener for many years and so I know quality in landscaping; and I highly recommend Garden Design Inc. to everyone who asks for help with their gardening projects. The designs done have always been unique, beautiful and professionally rendered in watercolor (they are beautiful framed to show visitors to the garden so you have a map and name for all your plants). Whenever a project was being done at my home (either patio or landscape plantings), the people who did the work showed up on time, were very professional, worked hard and did a great job! I didn't have to clean up when they were through and I could totally trust them with whatever they had to do. I've tried other company's for landscape projects, and have always been disappointed. It's a real pleasure (and a bargain) to have Garden Design work on my yard. I highly recommend them!"
- Sharon Coe

When we purchased our home in July of 2006, our back yard was not private, it was wide open and we could see and hear our neighbors, as well as the busy street in the front of our home. We downsized our home and our goal was to have a smaller, more intimate, comfortable and private indoor and outdoor living space. We felt we could handle renovating and decorating the house, but when it came to creating our private outdoor living space, we needed help. After calling three professional landscape and garden design firms for consultation and to provide plans to create the outdoor living space we dreamed of, there was only one, who listened and heard us as to how we visualized this outdoor space. I must admit, Garden Design Inc. was always my first choice. My husband insisted we pursue at least three professionals for design options, bids and opinions to consider. Garden Design was not the least expensive, but she was the most knowledgeable, and also offered the best service, quality of plants, and a design and plan "we could not live without!" We are so happy with our garden, and the company has been very reliable  has done everything promised; we couldn't be happier. We entertain and enjoy our outdoor living space from April through November. Thank you so much, we are grateful for the beautiful design and low maintenance garden you so graciously created for us.
- Barbara and Joel Ziev, Bethlehem, PA

"My husband and I enjoyed working with the Garden Design Inc. team of gardening professionals. They were able to understand our design objectives and create a plan that enhanced our property. As an avid amateur gardener I was pleased that she introduced an interesting variety of perennials and native plants and shrubs that provide year round seasonal interest.

We worked with Garden Design over the period of several years with a phased design plan that has yielded a garden and landscape that we thoroughly enjoy. Although we live in a standard housing development we feel like we have a country estate because of the well designed gardens. Best of all...the garden is easy to maintain and attracts butterflies, hummingbirds and birds that enhance the sensory pleasure of the garden. I highly recommend Garden Design to those who are looking for creative design and a landscape that will add value to their property."
- Wendy Steed, Allentown, PA

I have used Garden Design Inc. and have been very pleased with the results. They use different plant material and new combinations to provide the look we are after. As growers of perennials, bedding and potted plants, we are very particular about designs and installation and we recommend their services.
- Stan Nehrbas, owner Sabrhen Farm, Hereford, PA

Great job. We couldn't be more pleased. You and your staff are first rate. While we expected the job to be professionally done, it was the little touches that made the experience outstanding. Your staff is to be commended for their courtesy, hard work, dependability and thoroughness.
The garden is absolutely beautiful - and seems to become even better by the day. I've never enjoyed circling the house as much as I have recently.
- Joe and Susan Zahniser

Thanks for taking such good care of me. I think I am an oasis in my neighborhood as Joanne promised originally.
- Barbara Stout

Our face lift is inspiring to all. It certainly has added charm to my home and my pleasure and love of gardening. The curb appeal is so great and happy you are a part of my happiness.
- Char Smith, Bethlehem, PA

Garden Design, Inc created a harmonious Asian-inspired garden retreat full of color, form and texture which has provided me with the beauty of a peaceful private world.
- Betty Wohlsen

Thanks everyone! Our house looks great. We are getting lots of business and interest since the landscaping was completed. Tons of compliments.
- The Stone House Inn and Spa, Macungie, PA

We absolutely love our new garden and patio.
- Robert and Claire Aylward, Allentown, PA

From the initial consult, we both feel that you and your staff worked hard to reach an outdoor space that both met our emotional and aesthetic needs as well as our financial needs and provided a space we could enjoy for years to come.
- Nicole Ronco

Your employees are professional, polite, and meticulous. Your work is extraordinary.
- John and Mary Ellen Mirro

Your work exceeded our expectations.
- Vicki Doule, Nazareth, PA

Words cannot express my joy and the excitement I feel when I look at my beautiful "new" backyard. You have made our small corner of the world a more attractive place to enjoy!
- Leesa Wimmer

Joanne, the landscaping at our office is high quality and very thoughtful. It takes into consideration the four seasons in PA with plants that have a warm & welcoming feel year round for both our employees and visitors to enjoy. Deb and I loved it so much that we had you create a natural and inviting fountain complete with plantings that we enjoy year round as you enter our home. Thanks for your thoughtfulness and quality work.
- Barry & Deb Schlouch, Reading, PA

Our backyard had been a featureless expanse of grass with a small deck, surrounded by neighbors' fences. We knew we needed help designing a private backyard space and we were drawn to Garden Design by Joanne's aesthetic. After consulting with her and the firm's terrific staff, we decided to take the plunge and have Joanne's team build our outdoor oasis. The design was beautiful, with lots of perennial flowers and a unique shade structure, but the finished landscape is amazing! We love it, and it's a source of pleasure for us year-round.
- Pamela Wright & Dan Brashler, Easton, PA

No matter the season, the Garden Design team has provided interesting sites and color for our landscape plan. We enjoy purple Allium in the spring, red twig Dogwood against the snow, the Paper-bark Birch in the autumn, and green throughout the spring. The team fills large planters with color on our porch that make guests feel welcome.
- Susan and Bob Gadomski

In 1997 we moved into our home in Bethlehem. Part of the attraction of the home for us was the curb appeal. The landscaping was very extensive with a rock wall around the front of the property. There was a wonderful variety of plants that included both flowering and fabulous foliage.
But, after many years things need a sprucing up. Fortunately, we found the original landscaping plans and felt that it was important to go back to the person who had created the original design for some updating. This is when we met Joanne and her dedicated staff. Joanne understood that we wanted to update things and took the time to help us to understand the thinking behind the original plan. We were very pleased with the new additions to the landscaping. From that point on we worked with Joanne all of our property's landscaping needs.
Our property is not very large, but thanks to Joanne's designs when people come to our home especially our backyard they always comment that it doesn't feel like we are positioned so close to our neighbors.
We continue to use Garden Designs staff to keep our landscaping looking clean and fresh through the maintenance program. This helps us tremendously from a time stand-point as well as recognizing early when plants need some extra help.
Many years ago we realized that our landscaping is an investment that needs in our home and in order to keep that investment "growing" we needed the specialist help us.
- Robin Wolak, Bethlehem, PA

Garden Design has beautifully enhanced our existing outstanding landscaping along with their expert monthly maintenance that keeps our property pristine.
- Marilyn and Nate Braunstein, Allentown, PA

Garden Desgin's attention to detail and knowledge of plants, not to mention the design expertise has made our backyard a private sanctuary. I love walking around the beds in the yard, looking at how the plants have grown and changed over the years. There is always something blooming or changing color. The staff  are very knowledgeable and professional.
- Betsy Champagne, Macungie, PA

I had the pleasure of working with Garden Design when I moved into a newly built home. I had in the past, used another landscape company at another home, however my experience had not been as positive as it was with Garden Design Inc. They came to my new home and with my consent designed beautifully landscaped gardens and walkways. The landscape team enhanced a deck, added lighting and later irrigation to my yard. I receive many compliments on my yard, and believe my house stands apart from the others in my neighborhood due to the curb appeal created by the designs. I will continue to use Garden Design in the future!
- Tracy Weaver, Bethlehem, PA

Garden Design's creation has matured and continues to give us pleasure with beautiful color and rotating bloom varieties throughout the growing season. After many years we still get frequent compliments. We also employ her crew to maintain the beds and have been very pleased with their professionalism and expertise. We highly recommend Garden Design Inc.
- Linda and Harold Kreithen, Allentown, PA

Every day as we look at our yard, we again delight that we chose you as our landscaper. It looks nice each season of the year and still looks lovely after ten years. Many friends have asked who designed our yard and I always give your name with pride. Thank you!
- Jean Fox, Allentown, PA

"Garden Design worked well with us to grasp our needs and limitations. Working within a mature landscape, the gardens are now cohesive and refreshed, and actually take us much less time to maintain while giving us significantly improved vistas. Small but significant custom design details were suggested to take our gardens from ordinary to unique."
- Nancy Walters, Easton, PA

From the beginning of this project, we have been totally impressed with the quality of service, working with you and your team of people. Your design-work, including the integration of existing trees, plants and shrubs, really optimized the value of money we spent, which is truly appreciated. In the office, Kirk and yourself always made me feel welcome when I would stop by to discuss changes and questions I had. The crews made difficult work look easy and the end result was a great-looking landscape. I was also impressed with the low impact they had on my lawn and their thorough cleanup of the property, including power washing my driveway and walkways - a very nice touch. In closing, thanks for a great landscaping experience.
- Andy Eckert, Orefield, PA

The crew was great and, Joanne, you are incredibly talented - an artist - and I love this garden! Even before its first spring. Thank you!
- Alison Lutton, Allentown, PA

Our landscape truly invites you outside, and everyone who sees it is amazed. I'm sure it will look even more stunning next year as the plants have a chance to grow and mature over the winter.
- Bob and Patti Bazarian

I'm sorry that I didn't meet you sooner. I am very happy with your work!
- Susan Purcell

Garden Design absolutely transformed our yard and thoughtfully made our watering task automatic by installing a drip-irrigation system. The hardscape reoriented anyone going from our home into the back yard: formerly we would go outside and face the alley, but now when we go outside, we turn slightly left and step into a patio with low walls and garden beds. This reorientation makes a world of difference. Joanne Kostecky selected plantings that we delight in - abundantly blooming Roxanne geraniums in purple; white lilacs and phlox; a smoke bush (Cotinus), a Forest Pansy tree, and a low Japanese maple - all in deep red shades and all complemented with artistically located grasses. We take great pleasure in what Garden Design created for our home.
- Carole and Keith Brown, Bethlehem, PA

A beautifully distinctive, artistic design is the trademark of Garden Design, Inc. Season after season we enjoy watching our garden continually transform itself through Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. Joanne not only delivers a superb product but also provides an education on the various plants to any garden enthusiasts who wish to provide their own TLC.
- Susan, Bethlehem, PA

Our lovely gardens have created a welcoming outdoor living space that has brought much enjoyment to our family. In addition, it has opened our eyes to learning more about the wondrous world of landscape materials.
- Maureen Decker, Bethlehem, PA

Throughout the whole process, the design and installation personnel were very accommodating, skillful and competent in all aspects. We are very pleased with the result!
- Sharon Long

"Having a garden is very relaxing and rewarding - not just looking at it, but getting out and working in it. I've worked in a garden most of my life, but it wasn't until I worked for Garden Design that I really appreciated the benefits of a beautiful garden. Friends and neighbors frequently stop to admire the beauty of the garden and my family receives constant pleasure from it."
- Everett and Carol Johnson, Macungie, PA

"Joanne and her staff used their extensive experience and expertise to blend new plantings with established growth, resulting in a vivid four season garden of everchanging colors and blooms."
- Carl F. Schmoyer, Breinigsville, PA

"Joanne is great to work with. She listened to what we liked and incorporated our wishes into the overall plan. We now enjoy a wonderful, ever-changing landscape from our deck and patio."
- Drew & Barb Gubanich, Wescosville, PA

Joanne Kostecky did our landscaping. She took into consideration what I liked and then designed our yard accordingly. She is always available for consultations. Too, she understands that I like gardening, and she allows me to do as much - or as little - as I care to do. Her employees are well versed in the handling and the caring of plants, bushes, and trees.
- Alice Grove, Allentown, PA

When we asked you to plant a flowering garden, we wanted our front yard to change with the seasons. Now, the first flowers break through the spring snow and our garden blooms continuously until autumn, when the Nandina turn red and the ornamental grasses change from beige to silver, welcoming winter. Thank you for your creativity and for creating the garden of our dreams.
- Sherree and Howard Listwa, Allentown, PA

The place looks great. In 17 years many original homes around us have been torn down and large homes built. Your garden continues to delight the neighborhood.
- Pat Agger, Avalon, NJ

You really maximized our budget and surpassed my expectations. Your whole crew was a pleasure to have around! They were hardworking and polite.
- Carla Uribe, Coopersburg

The shade structure is spectacular! Thank you for delivering a high quality product. We're noticing an increase in the number of gawkers!
- Karen and Merrill Beyer

We feel fortunate to be able to admire the fruits of your labor every day.
- Jean and Dave Kelley, Center Valley, PA

We walk through our backyard everyday and night just in amazement of your design and plan.
- Mary and Steve Shore, Macungie, PA

I love looking out of our back windows. Everything is beautiful - pavers, plants, and roof. I'm looking forward to spring.
- Lynne and Don Johnson, Bethlehem, PA

Refreshing to deal with such a professional outfit.
- Jeff and Joyce Hertz, Kempton, PA

We are all absolutely thrilled with the bank patio. As soon as the carpentry crew left my mother walked outside. She loves it. The dogs love it so much I'm having trouble getting them to come in.
- Sylvia Gardner, New Tripoli, PA

Highest praises to Joanne and the crew.
- M. O'Brien

"I really enjoyed working with you. Your design ideas were beautiful and very creative, and you made the entire process a lot of fun too. Our garden is absolutely gorgeous; we love it!"
- Barbara Dadio

Garden Design professionally landscaped our home about 15 years ago, and has been back a couple more times since to enhance the installation as our needs and finances made it possible. The "curb appeal" of the place has increased enormously since Joanne Kostecky, Kirk Brown, and their associates went to work for us. Since we both work from home, we often have visitors, and many comment on how great the plantings and landscaping look! There's always something happening, something blooming, or something interesting to look at, all through the seasons. We've had Garden Design's "hort. services" regularly attend to the garden, doing maintenance as required. Their work has paid off, as our plantings are healthy and look well cared for. We are satisfied customers and would recommend Garden Design highly.
- Al and Randi Paul

Joanne Kostecky Garden Designs exceeded our expectations! We look forward to each season with its unique look. Our gardens have brought us genuine joy!
- Dave and Jean Kelley

Kostecky Garden Design has given us a beautiful perennial garden which we have enjoyed for many years. That, plus our entrance plantings have added so much to our home. It has been especially wonderful working with Joanne Kostecky who is creative, knowledgeable and dependable in all she does.
- Nalda and Dick Stevens

We employed Joanne Kostecky Garden Design for three projects on our property, both large and small. The results have enhanced our property both visually and functionally. We would highly recommend the company to anyone.
- Richard and Audrey Ritter

Such a beautiful job you have done landscaping my home. From designing and plant selection, through building, to following the work and effort has been fantastic. I cannot thank all those involved enough for all that they have done. The continuing horticulture services are a valued resource I could not do without. Again, thanks so much.
- Bill Hoff

Many thanks to Joanne Kostecky and her talented staff for literally rescuing our Civil War era home from a foundation-threatening water problem. We had gone as far as consulting with a civil engineering firm after another landscaper failed to resolve the issues that were turning our backyard into a seasonal swimming hole. Before committing to the engineer's enormous retention pond solution, we talked to Joanne. The result is a beautiful [and award-winning] dry lagoon with a flagstone patio floating atop, surrounded by lovely plantings. The lagoon is actually a large dry well filled with stone. The plantings were chosen for their water retention characteristics as well as their beauty. The practicality of the design was tested almost immediately by the arrival of two back to back hurricanes that inundated the region with record flooding. For the first time in several years we had a dry basement and a lawn instead of a swamp. We extended the design to the front lawn with a dry stream bed concept, and the sump pumps have not run for a couple of years. Again, our thanks to Joanne Kostecky Garden Design for resolving the terrible water problem, and for accomplishing this feat in a way that brings so many compliments from friends and guests.
- David Roberts