Testimonials

At DRT Landscape Design, we take pride in the work we do and the level of service that we provide. See what our customers have to say…

Doreen transformed my sloped city neighborhood property into a calm, cohesive landscape, planting predominantly native trees, shrubs and perennials over the course of several years after major drainage reconstruction. An expanded foundation and walkway design, including a “re-wilding” of the backyard into a bio-diverse bird habitat, all offer a visually appealing experience. My yard is now a beautiful sight to behold in all four seasons as it continues to evolve. I look forward to working with Doreen on future property enhancements. Her solutions to site and soil challenges are inspirational! 

Lynn Decher, Homeowner

Working with Doreen was a great experience. She is incredibly thoughtful in her approach to landscape design, down to individual plant selection. She brought my vision of a park-like, low-maintenance backyard to life while still keeping it practical for my dog. She is truly invested in the long-term success of her designs, providing guidance and support well beyond the initial installation. Even years later, she remains a wonderful resource—always willing to answer questions and go the extra step to help troubleshoot any issues that arise.

I couldn’t recommend her more highly. She is knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely passionate about creating landscapes that fit both your vision and your lifestyle.

Nicole Cleary, Homeowner

Doreen did an excellent job on our rather large, involved landscaping project. She asked all the right questions to help us develop a vision and we learned so much throughout the process.

The design incorporated all our needs while accommodating our steep slope and using deer resistant plants for our wooded lot.

Project execution was flawless!  Doreen communicates every step of the way and the crew was professional, hardworking and provided great attention to detail.

 We couldn’t be happier and have had her return to help with other areas of our yard.

Whitney and Paul Trifoso, Homeowners

Doreen and DRT Landscape Design are a pleasure to work with every step of the way. Her designs stand as works of art on their own. Her communication and accommodations to my ideas and concerns were attentive and professional. Besides just landscaping, we needed a carpenter and a mason for my backyard project. She recommended two craftsmen that I will definitely use again for any future projects; their work was pristine. Thanks to Doreen, my city backyard has been transformed into a beautiful, private oasis. I really couldn’t be happier. 

Christy Kager, Homeowner

We discovered Doreen after a long search. Previously, we were frequently told that our project was too small for a commercial landscaper and too big for the smaller operations.

Doreen came over to the house, walked the property, talked with us for maybe 2 hours, then said “I think I can make your vision of a retirement oasis happen.” She went beyond our wildest imaginings. After a few weeks she came back with an exhaustively detailed hand-drawn plan of the property and proposed planting, deck, and landscape features. The plan was carefully detailed to blend a broad variety of plant types selected for a variety of seasonal colors and features.  She helped us select a general contractor to replace a 30 year old deck, a stone mason to install a walkway and skirting around it, and an arborist to tend to a cherished Japanese maple. She surrounds herself with subcontractors who share her vision of what it takes to do a top-quality job right, the first time. She and her staff handled ground preparations, plantings, gave us watering instructions, and checked back regularly to inspect the new plantings.

She had endless patience as we reviewed and modified plans for Phase 1, then Phases 2 and 3 of the grand plan, all involving the original group of subcontractors. Communications are always clear and timely.

We are thrilled with the results of the Phase 1 installation and can’t wait for them to come back and get started on Phase 2. 

We would enthusiastically recommend Doreen and her team to anyone looking to enhance their property.

Ken and Mary Ann Morgan, Homeowner

Working with Doreen was a delightful experience from start to finish. She took on the challenge of creating a design centered around deer‑resistant plants and delivered a plan that was both practical and stunning. We especially appreciated how thoughtfully she collaborated with us, finding creative ways to incorporate some of our favorite existing plants while removing those that looked dated or were not thriving.

Doreen had the vision and expertise to know how to modernize the look of our front yard, giving it a fresh, inviting feel. The final design is full of beautiful layers and textures, creating a peaceful setting that feels both intentional and effortless.

Throughout the entire process, Doreen was a pleasure to work with—responsive, reliable, and incredibly patient. Her professionalism and calm, steady presence made the project enjoyable, and the results speak for themselves. We’re grateful for her vision and highly recommend her to anyone looking to transform their outdoor space into something truly special.

Ann and Steve Capper, Homeowner

DRT Landscape Design provided me with a flower garden beyond my expectations.  During the flowering months there are so many butterflies to enjoy!

Kim Cobb-Cain, Homeowner

When I moved to Corning a few years ago I loved everything about the house, except the backyard. There was only grass and a large concrete slab.  I knew it was a blank canvas, but had no idea how to proceed.  A friend forwarded me Doreen’s information.  I was impressed the moment I met her – she listened to what I was looking for – privacy, low-maintenance and dog-friendly.  Her design completely transformed a boring space into a sanctuary and entertainment area – trees and firs now provide privacy, while the bushes, flowers and grasses display a different look each season. Doreen checks in with me every year to see how the plantings are doing, as well as provide services to clean up and prune the gardens. I highly recommend her!

Mary Haselkamp, Homeowner

I have known Doreen as a colleague and friend for many years. I have always been impressed with her thorough design thinking, her diligence with executing the most thoughtful concepts, and her gifted ability to work well with others. She is talented and fastidious with design detailing. I have learned a lot from her and it is inspiring to see her artful concepts come to life!

Jessica Wolff, Owner – Lupine Site Design

Fourteen years ago, Doreen did a design for my back yard that was well thought out for my family at the time. The amazing part is, she also planned a design that grew and matured as my family did. The sandbox area which was so vital with toddlers, easily became a fire pit area to hang out with my teens simply by switching out furniture. The kids play patio now perfectly houses the hot tub that I told Doreen I dreamed of having one day. The design has served us well for many years and I can see it being perfect for us for many more.

Therese May, Homeowner

Doreen is a thoughtful designer and an advocate for her clients.  Her creative problem solving skills consider and balance wish list, site and environmental conditions, budget realities, and stage of life for both today’s and tomorrow’s needs.   She is a straightforward communicator and collaborative thinker who works with and on behalf of her clients’ needs to create places that improve the living spaces of those she serves. 

Gregory Schaumburg, Architectural Design Manager, Envinity, Inc.

We came to Doreen with a list of requests, and she met them all! She created a design that turned our muddy, steep, unusable yard into an oasis for birds, butterflies, and our family. She was a pleasure to work with, truly listened to our design wishes, and was responsive with any concerns or questions. Any day that the weather permits, we are out enjoying our wonderful yard!

TJ and Tandi Kiczenski, Homeowners  

Several years ago, Doreen helped me re-design the front-yard of my home.  After talking to me about what I desired, she created a design that exceeded my expectations.  Not only was it low maintenance, and perfectly evoked an English garden, it also included many of my favorite plants! Although I did not get to enjoy my new front-yard (a job change forced us to relocate shortly after it was installed), I believe the increased curb-appeal from her design helped my home sell more quickly than it otherwise would have. Doreen is a talented and creative designer. I highly recommend her.

Karen Bryla, Homeowner