About Stoneleaf

We don't just build landscapes. We reveal them.

Every property has a landscape waiting beneath the surface. Our job is to find it, then bring it to life with precision, patience, and a respect for the land that goes deeper than aesthetics.

Stoneleaf team collaborating on a landscape design project
Our Story

Born from a Belief That
Landscapes Should Belong

Stoneleaf began in 2008 when founder James Whitfield noticed something about the Peninsula's most beautiful properties: the best landscapes didn't look designed. They looked inevitable.

That observation became our founding principle. We don't impose designs on properties — we study the soil, the light, the existing trees, the way water moves across the land. Then we design spaces that feel like they've always been there.

Today, Stoneleaf is a team of designers, horticulturists, and craftspeople who share that same philosophy. We've completed over 500 projects across Palo Alto, Atherton, Menlo Park, and Los Altos — and every one began with listening.

Our Philosophy

Three Principles That
Guide Every Project

Listen First

We spend more time asking questions than showing portfolios. Your landscape should reflect how you live, not how we design.

Work With the Land

Every property has natural advantages — existing trees, sun patterns, natural drainage. We amplify what's already there instead of fighting it.

Build to Last

We use materials that age gracefully and plants that grow stronger year after year. A Stoneleaf landscape looks better at ten years than at ten days.

Our Team

The People Behind
Every Project

James Whitfield, Founder and Lead Designer at Stoneleaf Landscaping

James Whitfield

Founder & Lead Designer

A UC Berkeley-trained landscape architect with 18 years of experience designing residential properties across the Bay Area. James founded Stoneleaf on a simple belief: great landscaping should look like it belongs.

Maria Santos, Senior Horticulturist at Stoneleaf Landscaping

Maria Santos

Senior Horticulturist

Maria brings deep knowledge of Peninsula microclimates and native plantings. She leads our planting designs and ensures every garden thrives for decades, not just seasons.

Ryan Nakamura, Hardscape Director at Stoneleaf Landscaping

Ryan Nakamura

Hardscape Director

A master mason with 15 years in natural stone work. Ryan oversees all hardscape construction, from flagstone patios to engineered retaining walls.

Credentials

Licensed, Certified,
and Insured

We hold every certification that matters — because your property deserves professionals who take their craft seriously.

  • Licensed Landscape Contractor — CA #yourlicensehere
  • APLD Certified Landscape Designer
  • Bay-Friendly Qualified Landscape Professional
  • LEED AP — Sustainable Site Design
  • ISA Certified Arborist on Staff
Why Stoneleaf

Measured by lasting relationships, not just finished installs.

Clients come to Stoneleaf for a more composed process and stay for the confidence that the details will hold up after the handoff.

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Years of Experience

Designing and building residential landscapes across the Peninsula.

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Projects Completed

From compact courtyards to full estate transformations.

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Client Satisfaction

Built on communication, finish quality, and long-term care.

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Industry Awards

Recognition for thoughtful design, horticulture, and craft.

Book a Consultation

Let's Talk About Your Property

Every great landscape starts with a conversation. Tell us about your space and we'll show you what's possible.

Start Your Project

Or call (000) 000 - 0000 for a direct conversation.