Our Services

At John Russell Landscape Architect we build one project at a time, from start to finish, with one crew and guarantee our work. We fulfill the potential of the site.

John Russell Landscape Architect has proudly served Birmingham area residents with high quality landscape design and build services since 1996. We have decades of experience shaping landscapes into the perfect outside living areas. We design on the spot and work with you to craft the ideal landscape together. Then, we make your dream landscape into a reality. That is what makes us the preferred choice for landscape architects in Alabama.

Arbors & Pergolas

These beautiful wooden structures give your garden structure and your family shade. Arbors and pergolas create relaxing outdoor living spaces that add a stunning aesthetic.

Edging

Perfectly outline the landscape elements you want to stand out. Edging will separate your outdoor spaces, creating a clean and elegant look.

Outdoor Fire Pits

People in Alabama love to gather around a fire. Our fire zone design will give your landscape the perfect place to safely enjoy a fire with friends and family.

Lawns

Beyond all of the elaborate landscape features, the lawn is still an important aspect. A clean cut and pristine look of lush grass provides the perfect face for your home.

Paved surfaces provide you with a level place for outdoor living. Create a beautifully decorated picnic area with multicolored stone pavers and more.

Trees, shrubs, flowers and many other types of vegetation can really enhance a landscape. Strategically planting these natural elements bring out the beauty of your outdoor area.

While most natural elements can be used to enhance a landscape, stone has a very special quality that gets great results. For the most stunning and awe-inspiring designs, stone is a must.

Outside Seating

What good is a gorgeous landscape if you can’t enjoy it? With outside seating areas built into the design, you and your guests can sit and take in nature from the comfort of your own yard.

Creating staggered elevation levels is another great way to show off your landscape elements. Using stone or brick steps both showcase your land as well as assist in clearing a path.

Recycled Materials

We want to make a positive impact on the environment as well as save you money. By recycling landscaping materials, we can do both very effectively.

Water Features

Water features really top off the perfect landscape. A babbling brook or waterfall not only looks beautiful but also creates an ambiance.

Walls

Retaining walls also help to stagger elevation levels of your landscape features. They keep elements in place and allow you to showcase them while providing more space.

Chris Willis

October 11, 2025

They installed a French drain, leveled my backyard, and poured a 10 x 20’ concrete patio. The team was very courteous throughout. They communicated clearly, were on time everyday, and very respectful. The quote was accurate—no hidden add-ons! Outstanding service. Highly recommend

Gretchen Skalka

July 26, 2025

We bought our home knowing we’d have a big project ahead in the backyard, but I never imagined it could be transformed as beautifully as it has. When we moved in, the yard was a neglected mess—no grass, just pinestraw and dirt, with only weeds struggling to survive. One side was rocky and tough; the other side was mushy and weird. On top of it all, the sunlight was a challenge, with deep shade in the back and blazing sun in the front, leaving little in-between. From the moment I met John's son, Daniel Russell, I knew I’d found the right landscape architect for the job. He listened carefully to my ideas and hopes for the space, and then turned them into a design that went far beyond what I’d imagined. He and his team installed a gorgeous, winding flagstone pathway, beautifully illuminated for evening enjoyment, that now connects and defines the entire backyard. The transformation is truly stunning. Daniel chose a mix of plants perfectly suited to our challenging conditions: Japanese maple, hostas, camellias, palm, ferns, and grasses that thrive in the shady rear, while rosemary, hydrangea, and salvia add color and fragrance up front, turning the whole space into a haven for butterflies. Now, every section of the yard is full of visual interest, and we love spending time outside more than ever. We are so grateful to Daniel and the entire team for their creativity, professionalism, and attention to detail. What they created for us is exactly what my highest hope has been for the yard since we bought our home. If your yard feels hopeless, I know exactly how it feels - which is why I simply cannot recommend John Russell Landscape Architect highly enough! They will help you discover hidden potential and fall in love with your outdoor space.

Josh Melnick

May 22, 2025

John and team recently completed our backyard project - and what a transformation! The quality and attention to detail was incredible. They took our idea and turned into an amazing space for our family. Highly recommend!

Jamie Gober

May 15, 2025

We had our backyard finished with John Russell and his team. They are the hardest working team that I’ve ever hired. Very professional. John did a consultation and listened to all of our concerns with our current backyard. He gave us multiple options for the work that needed to be done. Then during the work, everyone was very nice. Always answered our questions. Price was very fair for the amount of work needed. Would 10/10 use them again on any future landscaping projects.

Laura Franck

April 22, 2025

We hired John to help us come up with a plan to refresh our entire yard—front and back—and help with new plantings, new sod, and basically build back up our yard that had been steadily eroding these past several years. Rain events had become very stressful! Also, one of my biggest goals was to make our yard walkable all the way around, which it had not been. There really aren't words to describe how wonderful the finished project is!! John and I worked well together and I like that he listened and was not afraid in the least to tell me exactly what he thought all along the way. He helped me create a little haven we can call our own and I absolutely love all of the beautiful shrubs, river stone paths, flowers, etc. that we ended up with. It feels like the whole thing extended our living space out from the inside and I love that! And we can now walk all the way around and enjoy it as if we are in a little private botanical garden in the suburbs. The crew who worked on our yard each day was amazing!! They were all so diligent and hardworking and all of them very kind and pleasant for the duration of the work. The communication between John and the crew and myself was spot on, and I was kept in the loop each day, and the entire undertaking went so smoothly from start to finish. It was no small feat! There were so many moving pieces with all of the dump trucks delivering top soil, a flatbed of sod, the new plantings being brought in, the trucks bringing the river stones, the mulch, doing all the digging and the leveling, etc. Everything moved like it was part of a well-oiled machine! We needed someone who really knew what they were doing design-wise as well as landscaping-wise and my gut told me John was that guy, and he and his crew did not disappoint!! I wouldn't hesitate to call him for future projects. This project was worth every single penny and we are so thankful he helped us stick to a budget we agreed on, and now we will be able to enjoy our yard and flowers for years to come!! A garden is a thing of beauty and a joy forever!

Brenda Carling

April 17, 2025

John and his team worked with us to create a new look for the front of our home. He was professional and easy to communicate with during the project. His crew worked hard, were on time, and the results are exactly as expected. We would recommend John and his team to assist in your landscaping needs.

Pamela Hanson

April 11, 2025

Had a great experience working with John Russell and his team! They replaced and widened my front walk and steps, added a paver walkway around the side of the house, and helped mitigate some water seepage into the basement. John is very opinionated (which might rub some folks the wrong way), but he has earned the right to be so through extensive training and experience. He knows his stuff! John's team is friendly and professional; they work quickly while maintaining high standards of craftsmanship. Are they the least expensive landscapers in town? Absolutely not. Are they worth they extra cost? 110%! Look forward to working with them on future projects!

Eugene Aquino

March 21, 2025

Our backyard and front yard look great! I appreciate Mr Russell’s communication and the professionalism of his team.

RBA

March 6, 2025

We knew we needed help with landscaping and hardscaping at our home. What we didn’t know was just how much John Russell provided with respect to both design and installation. From our initial consultation, to the estimating process, through completion of the job, John was there to make sure everything went perfectly. And boy did it. Utilizing John’s design, his staff replaced the plant material in front of the house - shrubs and plants. They also did hardscaping all around the house, including beautiful stonework, brick repair and replacement, and mortar work on a long, winding bluestone path. What we ended up with is even more than we expected. The crew showed up on-time, worked diligently, kept things tidy, removed any hint of a mess, and left us delighted with the results. I cannot recommend John Russell Landscape Architect more enthusiastically for both design and installation.

Bob Terry

February 24, 2025

We chose John Russell Landscape Architecture to redo our whole yard because we had seen their work at a family members home. We were not disappointed. John spent time helping us create a master plan. He was helpful at every point. His team arrived when he said they would and worked until the job was completed. Team members were polite and easy to relate to. They worked hard and did great work. We are more than satisfied. We highly recommend John Russell Landscape Architecture and the whole team.

Rebeka Sipma

February 15, 2025

They redid our backyard—it’s now much more accessible and gorgeous. He prioritized native plants which was what I was looking for. Crew was professional and got everything finished in a timely manner.

James Erwin

November 21, 2024

John Russell, and all associates, are first class in every respect and will not disappoint in whatever landscaping project requested. Honest, courteous group who pride themselves in a job well done. I have known John for many years and can highly recommend his services. Smart guy.. who has done some amazing work around my home and office over the years. With respect... Dr. James M Erwin

Brian O'Brien

September 25, 2024

We were very pleased with the work John and his crew did for us. Initially he helped us envision the possibilities with a sketch. Then when his crew came, they got right to work and stayed at the site several days until the work was complete. Besides replacing plants and creating new beds, they put in a French Drain, installed a fountain, hung string lights and built privacy screens. In the process, they transformed and area with potential into our private garden spot. Thank you John, from Judy.

Rebecca Mayes

September 24, 2024

They put in 2 pollinator gardens that I have been wanting for a few years. They turned out better than I can imagine! Every one was so professional and nice! They were all good with the pups too 😃! Very knowledgeable and came up with some ideas I did not think of. I would highly recommend 😃!!

Meghan Ridner

May 4, 2024

My husband and I were shocked with our experience during our consultation with the owner of this company. I completed his request asking me to write up a plan on what I wanted along with photos and a list of plants. After doing this, not only did he not read what I wrote… he laughed at it to my face in front of my husband after blatantly ignoring me once my husband stepped outside. He was condescending and dismissive towards us. I was very excited to work with this company after reading the reviews and speaking with the owner on the phone but we were left appalled and will not be conducting business with him. I write this as a warning to others that do not wish to be disrespected in their own home. .

Linda Casebeer

February 14, 2024

John Russell completely transformed our downtown small urban yard with renovation, turf, and beautiful choice of plants, a delight now and will be for years to come for my pups and me!

Monica Law

December 12, 2023

John and his crew brought my back yard to life. Had significant filling, grading, concrete removal, fence tear down, fence replaced, and sod. The crew was respectful of my time and property. Everything was left neat and orderly. They provided great care instructions. I'm eager to host my family when it gets warm. My friends have marveled at how inviting my yard is. I'm extremely happy. There may be a wait time to be on his schedule but it's welllllllll worth it. It feels like a new home.

Jana Shelton

November 13, 2023

It’s obvious that quality and integrity are important to John and his company. John has such an eye and made our vision come to life. Couldn’t recommend him more. If you want a trusted company, look no further. His credentials speak for itself! :)

Hayden Shelton

November 9, 2023

I cannot say enough about the masterful work that John Russell created in our backyard. John and his team turned the desolate space behind our house into a garden oasis that we will forever cherish. If you’re looking for quality and expertise, look no further. His credentials listed on the website speak for themself. Best landscaping in the Birmingham area!

Ellen Dolan

November 1, 2023

I chose John Russell and his company because my initial meetings to discuss a total landscape reno and was impressed by his knowledge of the types of sod and maintenance, as well as some great recommendations as to the new shrubs i wanted installed to replace the tired, worn out boxwood shrubs. His price was reasonable and the work was completed on time. My home looks lovely now, young and fresh. Many compliments from my neighbors. Thank you John, Daniel, David and crew.

Donald Reeves

September 21, 2023

Would recommend them to anyone. John and his son were awesome!

Mike Satterwhite

September 12, 2023

We have used Mr. Russell for two projects both of which was fairly large. He was fair with his prices and did very good work for us. He was very concerned that we were happy with what they had done for us. We recently had some issues with some of the shrubs mostly cold damage and some fungus problems. We asked Mr. Russell if he would come down and look things over in order to give us some advice as to what we needed to do. He was very happy to do so. He even said he would be willing to replace some of the shrubs even though we did not expect him to do so as he could not help the cold weather, we had last winter. We have been very pleased with his work and would recommend his company to anyone needing landscape work. Vivian and Mike Satterwhite

M W

August 11, 2023

David Chaplin

June 2, 2023

We first worked with John Russell Landscape Architect when we were trying to control rain water run-off that was turning our wooded back yard and swimming pool into a muddy mess after every heavy rain. This happened because our yard was at the bottom of a slope that collected all of the rainwater from six neighboring properties. John developed an attractive and very effective solution to our problem that created two stunning lawn areas and that completely protected our pool. This substantially increased our property value and turned an eyesore part of our property into an area we thoroughly enjoyed. We worked with John again after we moved to a new more urban setting where we again encountered water run-off problems following several what our city engineer called ‘100 year rains’. John again developed a solution that controlled the water while enhancing both our flower beds, vegetable patch, and lawn. John has a great aesthetic sense and a unique understanding of the power and value of rainwater. Although he can be busy, requiring his clients to wait for their turns, he’s accurate in predicting when he’ll be able to do the work. His cost estimates are detailed and very accurate. And his team of workers do a terrific job and show great respect for your property. When they’re finished, you’ll be ready to entertain the same day. He stands behind his work and has been very quick to come and deal with a couple of minor issues that developed several months after he completed the initial project. He’s our go to resource for all landscape problems.

Heath Sutton

April 7, 2023

Johns reviews speak for themselves but i recently had the pleasure of working with him on my backyard. I asked him to come in and design a solution to take care of water runoff that was coming off the hill above me... This issue i was experiencing was made worse by a crew with much less knowledge and expertise than John. John cleaned all that up and designed a project to address my issues and poured a pad for my building tying all of that together. John stays booked up because of the quality of the work he does. Do yourself a huge favor.... Get on the schedule and WAIT on John to get to you. He moved me up when he had someone else delay on him. You will not regret it and you wont be kicking yourself later for going with someone available "right now". I learned it the hard way..

Noah Meeks

November 7, 2022

John Russell was very responsive, completed design work in one sitting, and installed a few weeks later. Very transparent pricing and conscientious work.

Elaine Meeks

November 1, 2022

Mr. Russell spent a few hours with us to talk through our vision, provide insight & direction, draw up the work, and provide a very detailed estimate. He was honest about what would work and not work, but kept space open for us to express what we wanted. It was a collaborative balance. That he guarantees his work and remains available to contact after the work is completed to consult if there's an issue or to provide direction as we "treat" our landscape project throughout the year was a selling point for us. The estimate was tweaked before the project started, so when it was time to settle up, the estimate closely matched the "out the door" costs. The work is beautiful and reflects our vision. When spending a sizeable amount of money for a significant project like this, the bottom line decision point is whether the landscape architect can be trusted, and we felt like we could trust Mr. Russell.

Cyrus Huffman

July 9, 2022

John and his team did an incredible job for us and were super responsive to us throughout the project. I highly recommend him for any outdoor project that you plan to do.

Nathan Bush

June 6, 2022

John was responsive in our initial consultation as well as throughout the process of scheduling and completing the project. He was reachable by email and phone when I had questions. His crew was respectful to our property and our neighbors did not have complaints when we asked. John provided good guidance and knowledge which I appreciated during the design of our backyard project. We would request his services for future projects.

Robin Bush

May 30, 2022

Mr Russell assessed our property and our vision for what it could become. We have a detailed to scale blueprint he created. We are now waiting for installation, he completes one job at a time till it is finished with his own experience crew. I can't wait to see the results.

Harry Bell

Mr. Russell took an entire day to talk with us about our ideas and preferences. We walked the property and went over design concepts and the best trees and shrubs to use. He then came up with a detailed archetectural drawing. Based on our experience with his design, we will be using him to do the job. He is great to work with.

Mark Underwood

April 22, 2022

Our project was to completely transform a 25+ year old, builder grade yard into a functional outdoor space for us, and for our dogs. John helped us understand the scope of the architecture to rework and expand the space, the horticultural landscaping to meet our vision and the engineering that would be required to clear and level the land (raised more than 5ft in some places, the new retaining wall is impressive in itself) He was very clear and direct with us on timing and costs, and kept his word. The project was completed on time despite the "supply chain" issues, which did limit our choice of materials but not reduce the quality of the finished work. His Team were phenomenal, punctual every day, diligent in their work, artisanal in their execution. It really was a great experience, almost an "HGTV" episode! John was onsite every day for the entire month, explaining the destruction, construction and landscaping as it happened. His "one job at a time" ethic showed; he was responsive to our questions (and yes, occasional concerns!) and kept a knowledgeable caring demeanor throughout the process that we really appreciated. Our yard is now something to enjoy and be proud of for the years to come. We have green space for the dogs, a huge patio for entertaining and are still marveling at the little details throughout. We highly recommend John Russell.

Lindsay Fassina

October 26, 2021

I can’t say enough good things about John and his crew. I had my first consultation with him last November, and all I knew at that point was that I wanted my front yard to be pretty. I am clueless about all things landscape, so he asked me to send him pictures of things I liked. He knew the names of every single plant, shrub, etc that I sent to him and came up with a whole front yard plan for me that day. He put me on his schedule and was due to start my job at the end of May/beginning of June. Fortunately for me, all of the rain over the spring and summer put him a little behind schedule, and during that time I discovered a whole new issue with my backyard. Flooding, standing water, mud, all the gross things. I called him up and he came out to look the very next week. He came up with a whole plan to resolve that problem (French drains, river rock, sod) and the next week sent me an updated estimate that included both the front and back yard. His crew completed my entire job in a little over a week and the end results are beyond any and all expectations. I mean, I knew everything would look great bc I read reviews and knew he was the best at what he does, but I truly thought there’s no way this backyard will ever be not gross. Seriously these guys are amazing, they are hard workers, and they do not leave your project unless or until you are 100% satisfied.

Andrea F.

October 4, 2021

I first talked to John about fixing my yard almost a year ago. I had severe erosion on the side of my house by the woods. The woods drop off into a valley. I’ve been looking at this disaster or a yard for years!!! Finally had to do something about it. After a consultation, John put me on his wait list and worked with me when I had to reschedule a couple of times due to circumstances beyond my control. My side yard and back yard are beautiful now!!!! John and his crew fixed the erosion problem and planted azaleas everywhere!!! It took 5 dump trucks of materials - there’s no way I could have done this myself even though my yard is very small. His guys were great!! Hard workers and fixed some other minor things that I needed done. The final product exactly what I wanted. Great job , 5 stars!!

Nerrin Zaharias

July 7, 2021

John Russell transformed our backyard into a beautiful haven. The area started as a plain yard requiring much care and he and his skilled crew turned it into a resort like environment. He is very artistic and was extremely helpful with details such as sizing of pool, patio, pergola and surrounding landscaping. He chose healthy plants which have thrived in their chosen locations. He also repaired a drainage system which has been working beautifully keeping our lawn dry, green and healthy. John Russell and his staff are very knowledgeable and hardworking and I would recommend them for any landscaping project.

Michael Menk

March 28, 2021

John built concrete steps from our driveway to our backyard. The terrain was tricky, and the steps curve around more than 90 degrees. The work was done ahead of time and below budget, and looks great. As a late addition, he added some mulch and plants on both sides that help with runoff issues. We couldn’t be happier with the work he did and look forward to working with him again on future projects.

Michael Satterwhite

February 23, 2021

John Russell Landscape Architect did a project for us in Dec. of 2020. His company was on time and very concerned about getting it just right for us. Found them to be very helpful. Mr. Russell was a very hand on person and wanted placements to be in just the right location. The project turned out great. Already thinking about using him on another project we have. Out of all the plant we had only one to not make it. Mr. Russell replaced it very quickly.

Sarah Spraberry

February 5, 2021

John Russell Landscape Architect helped us create both a functional and beautiful patio space. John was both prompt and honest with all communication--he ensured we were comfortable, and up to date with any changes needed. Our project was completed swiftly (despite rain) and seamlessly. We would definitely recommend this company to anyone looking to transform their space!

Corey Spraberry

John and his crew did an excellent job on the project he did. The project was a patio with pavers and I couldn't be happier with the outcome. The work is of very high quality. The final price was within a reasonable margin of the initial quote he gave. The cost breakdown is very detailed which I appreciated. I believe the cost of his services are fair and honest. My customer experience was very positive and would recommend him to anyone. Ultimately, I believe the quality of the work has increased the value of the home and given us a space to enjoy.

Tim Stacks

January 21, 2021

We hired Mr. Russell to replace a rotting timber retaining wall with a segmented wall, and we couldn't be happier. Not only does it look great, but I'm certain that the wall will outlast me. Our yard has a very steep grade with limited access, and our existing wall was nearly touching our deck. Despite these challenges, he and his crew were able to quickly and efficiently remove and replace the wall. He checked in with me frequently and kept me in the loop on what he was doing. I cannot recommend his services highly enough.

Melissa Brown

January 20, 2021

We couldn't be happier with the work that John and his crew did at our property in replacing our retaining wall. They were professional, prompt, and left the work site cleaner than it was when they arrived. Great work at a fair price. We highly recommend their services and will without a doubt use them again for future projects.

Denise Monroe

January 14, 2021

Our experience in hiring John to design and establish new landscaping, including installing maintenance free composite fencing and making dramatic improvements to drainage, was pleasant and rewarding. John and his team were polite, professional, punctual and tidy. Everyone took great pride in helping transform our side yard from muddy, unattractive space to an inviting, beautiful oasis. As a seasoned landscape architect, John has a keen eye for detail and is creatively flexible, while understanding the importance of frequent communication and feedback to ensure client satisfaction. We are quite happy with the outcome and highly recommend John Russell Landscape Architect and his team.

Miranda Studstill

November 7, 2020

John’s work was great! We love our patio. And he was dependable, too. Definitely recommend him!

jstudstill

Highly recommend. Great work, transparent and dependable! John poured a patio for us that transformed our back yard into a space we could really enjoy (since we are spending more time at home during the pandemic, we needed it!). He is an expert, especially with some water flow challenges around our house. We WILL be using him again as we continue next phases of our back yard space. We especially appreciated how transparent he was with our best options for our space and the pricing. He was always there when he said he’d be and HE ONLY DOES ONE JOB AT A TIME! No lingering jobs.

Bill Murray Jr

October 10, 2020

John Russell just left our house after a weeks worth of very hard work and we could not be happier with the way it looks. We had a bunch of old over grown shrubs and decided to start over. We pulled it all out and John designed a whole new low growing beautiful look with brick around the beds and landscape lights on the house, in several trees and walk way lighting. It looks amazing, better than we could have imagined. We would highly recommend John and his team. They do things right!

Robby Prince

October 2, 2020

Mr. Russell and his crew recently completed a job at my house. They did a wonderful job, and were very accommodating to in-the-moment requests. Mr. Russell was very open about how he quotes and build jobs. His guys worked hard, were respectful, and left a clean job site. The main portion of the job was to install a lengthy french-drain to repair the non-functioning one I had. He walked me thru every step and guarantees his work. I would highly recommend Mr. Russell and would use him again for any future needs.

dale cookson

September 27, 2020

John Russell is a consummate professional AND a warm, friendly person. Thoroughly knowledgeable in soils, plants, planning and building, he guided us through the process making suggestions which enhanced our property and added further enjoyment to the final outcome. John and his crew do ONE project at a time. You can expect a bit of a wait for the start date, but once they arrive they stay on site each day until the project is completed to your satisfaction. They are not the low-cost leader. However, Skilled Labor is not cheap, and Cheap Labor is not skilled. When adding on to your home or property, you want to ensure a quality project. This company brings that and John will not leave until you are satisfied with the outcome. I highly recommend this company, we were delightfully surprised and impressed with their professionalism, courtesy and skills.

Max Stern

September 21, 2020

Our backyard exceeded our expectations. John is an oasis of great ideas.

Frances Waller

July 30, 2020

Mr. Russell is an artist!! On our empty, bleak backyard canvas, I asked Mr. Russell to create beauty and happiness that drew birds, butterflies and bees. We envisioned a retreat, an escape from this time we are living through. His creativity and heart poured into his work had a hummingbird and monarch butterflies before the crew had even finished! It is wonderful and indeed, such a happy place. John gave me very detailed instructions in writing in order to maintain the beauty. He was so thorough, skilled and efficient. His staff are as professional as he! What else can I say but that he was our Claude Monet, and we are supremely pleased. Oh, in addition, his work was incredibly pocket-book friendly!

Lere Harper

July 25, 2020

John and his team were flexible and easy to work with. They did a good job of landscaping my sloping backyard. They had to address loss of topsoil and drainage issues, and do a lot of planting and transplanting. The backyard is quite transformed!

Arbors & Pergolas

Edging

Outdoor Fire Pits

Lawns

Landscape Paving and Patios

Landscape Plantings

Decorative Stone

Outside Seating

Landscaping Steps

Recycled Materials

Water Features

Walls

Monday - Friday	8:00 AM — 4:00 PM
Saturday - Sunday	Closed