Opulands Merges Sculpture and Landscape in Bay Area Outdoor Designs

Opulands Landscape Design & Construction is redefining outdoor spaces in the Bay Area by treating them as open-air galleries where sculpture and environment merge to create immersive art experiences. The company specializes in integrating both large-scale and small-scale art pieces into landscapes, considering every detail from sightlines to light play, ensuring each installation enhances the natural beauty of its surroundings.

Large-scale installations require not just creative vision but also logistical expertise, including navigating complex site conditions and coordinating with artists and fabricators. Opulands brings this comprehensive approach to each project, from feasibility studies to the final placement of the artwork, ensuring a seamless integration of art and landscape. This meticulous process is crucial for projects that aim to become more than just gardens but rather curated environments.

Founder Steven van Dongen's background in studying European gardens and American sculpture parks influences the company's design ethos, fostering a unique dialogue between sculpture, soul, and space. This philosophy has earned Opulands significant recognition, including being named a Best of Houzz winner from 2022 to 2025 and receiving three prestigious Bay Area CLCA awards in 2025. These accolades highlight the firm's standing in the competitive landscape and luxury outdoor living market.

The implications of this design approach are substantial for property owners and the broader community. By elevating yards into artistic statements, Opulands contributes to a cultural shift where residential and commercial spaces are viewed as platforms for public art and personal expression. This matters because it challenges conventional landscaping, promoting environments that stimulate thought and emotion rather than merely serving functional purposes. The company's work demonstrates that outdoor areas can be transformative, blending aesthetic ambition with natural harmony to create lasting value and beauty.