We Design
Different
I was only 16 when I started working at a local garden center in my hometown, and I knew right away that I was going to devote my life to the landscaping industry. This lead me into pursuing a degree in Landscape Horticulture and Design with a minor in Plant Biology from Purdue University.
Since then I've had the opportunity to work and study landscape design in Indianapolis, Chicago, North Carolina, and England. Studying Landscape Design abroad was by far my favorite, and although I love many design styles- from Woodland French to Japanese Tea Gardens- English Gardens- such as Hestercombe, Hidcote, and Stowe are by far my favorite.
Regardless of the design style, my passion is helping people complete their homes by creating the backyard of their dreams. Initially, Living Spaces was a design only firm, but as the company grew, I realized many of our clients wanted to continue working with us throughout the installation process.
From small, native shade gardens to heavy construction with pool and deck renovations, our team knows their way around the full spectrum of landscape disciplines, and we love all of it.
Whether we are providing design only services or working through the entire construction process, what energizes us most is enriching the lives of our clients, construction partners, and collaborators.
I'm honored to be one of the few landscaping companies in the United States which is both owned, founded and operated by a woman and I enjoy every chance possible to help promote women and young girls in the trades and as future entrepreneurs.
Robert Ingersoll said, “We rise by lifting others.” This is the heart and soul of Living Spaces Outdoor Design.
KIMBERLY LEJA MARTINEZ
Director of Design &
Project Development
At 16 years old, my design journey began with a can of spray paint and napkin sketches. It was solidified by an uninspired corner of our family's home becoming a lush garden teeming with color.
This early life experience would propel me into achieving a Bachelor Landscape Architecture degree from Penn State University, studying Sustainable Design and Stormwater Management in Germany, and then working for a commercial design firm in Austin Texas for a couple of years before moving back home to Pittsburgh.
Now at Living Spaces Outdoor Design, I am focused on bringing homeowner’s dreams to life, no matter the scope of the project. My passion for building unique design elements ensures every client receives a one of a kind experience, accompanied by thorough drawings detailing every element.
Although the majority of my time is spent working with our clients in the design process, I love visiting job sites and interacting with our installation teams. Getting involved on the construction side of our company has greatly improved my skill set as a designer.
BRYCE CRAIG
Junior Landscape Designer
DENISE MEJIA
Project Administrator
I have always loved working with people and helping plan projects from start to finish and I came to Living Spaces Outdoor with a varied background based in client service.
Most recently, I worked in interior design helping to create beautiful spaces in people's homes. Prior to that, I worked for marketing and advertising firms, helping small businesses with their marketing plans. It gives me great joy to work with people and help see a successful project through.
The transition from indoor spaces to outdoor spaces has been fun and an extremely refreshing change. I have enjoyed learning about the various aspects involved in the design and construction of outdoor spaces.
The best part about my position as Project Administrator at Living Spaces is meeting the clients and seeing how happy they are with their new outdoor space.
It is so gratifying to know they are getting exactly what they want through the design process and I love being able to help facilitate their projects!
WE DESIGN DIFFERENT
LETS GET STARTED!
Every aspect of your design works with the land and expresses your individual tastes, resulting in a completely unique and extraordinary outdoor experience.
“You can journey to the ends of the earth in search of success,
but if you’re lucky, you will discover happiness in your own backyard.”
RUSSELL CONWELL
OUR MISSION & VALUES
We enhance the lives of the people we work with, both personally and professionally, through creating opportunities originally not thought possible.
INTEGRITY
We are honest, ethical, consistent, and accountable, even when no one is watching.
PASSION
We pour our hearts into every project and every person with whom we work.
TRUST
By being reliable and true to our word, we earn the confidence of our clients, colleagues, and construction partners
QUALITY
We strive for excellence in our designs, craftsmanship, and communication.
CURIOSITY
We are eager
to learn, explore,
and grow.
You finally hold the keys to your dream home. The only piece missing is the breathtaking, soul-stirring experience of YOUR great outdoors.
Living Spaces Outdoor Design helps homeowners like you transform their surroundings into their personal sanctuary. We seamlessly coordinate every step of the journey, working alongside contractors and artisans to thoughtfully manifest your outdoor desires and requirements.
TRANSCEND CURB APPEAL
From opulent water features to stunning outdoor kitchens, the luxurious estate of an LSOD homeowner reflects their unique personality and style.
TRANSFORMATION BEGINS WITH DESIGN
From recreation to relaxation, and everything in between, we excel at ambitious projects that demand clever creativity. Working with the natural elements surrounding the home, we integrate amenities and features homeowners never thought possible.
COMPREHENSIVE LANDSCAPE DESIGN
AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT
The LSOD team manages each step of the project, enabling homeowners to bypass the stress of juggling it all themselves. An organized and detail-oriented LSOD team member serves as the central point of all communications with contractors, artisans, designers, and, of course, the homeowner.
what others say
"We loved the design that Kimberly provided. Our back yard was small, the existing deck was tiny, and the drop from the house to the yard steep. We met with several landscapers and landscape architects, but Kimberly addressed all of the problem areas, maximized the space and provided a unique design. She also oversaw the installation through Primary Grounds who also did a fantastic job."
KRIS
A landscape design and project management firm serving the Greater Pittsburgh Metropolitan area
GET STARTED
In our detailed designs, we bring together hardscapes, horticulture, audio-visual media, furnishings, aquatic features, and more. Every component cooperates with the terrain and complements the climate.
A masterfully crafted outdoor living area begins with Living Spaces Outdoor Design. Together, let’s complete your home with the setting you’ve always wanted.
PROUD MEMBERS OF
.png)
