Business Details
44 Years
experience
Custom Pool & Landscape Design in Walnut Creek, CA
Founded in 1982, Alderland has established itself as a trusted leader in custom pool and landscape design across the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 40 years of hands-on experience and more than 1,100 completed projects, our team combines artistic vision with technical expertise to create functional, aesthetically stunning outdoor spaces. Led by owner Don Vivatsona seasoned designer with decades of industry recognitionwe specialize in transforming outdated backyards into personalized oases that reflect each client's unique lifestyle. Our comprehensive services span pool construction, landscape design, outdoor kitchens, fire features, and shade structures, all executed with meticulous attention to detail.Recognized in Sunset Magazine and California Landscape Contractors Magazine, we maintain a reputation for quality craftsmanship and innovative solutions that enhance property value and outdoor living experiences. By integrating modern materials and sustainable practices, we deliver timeless designs that withstand California's climate while prioritizing client satisfaction from concept to completion.
Services
Landscape Construction
Pool Construction
Outdoor Kitchens
Fire Pits
Shade Structures
Fireplaces
Pergolas
Pavilions
Waterfalls
Waterslides
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- Over 40 years of experience in pool and landscape design since 1982
- Award-winning designs featured in Sunset and Diablo magazines
- Full-service provider for both pool and landscape construction
- Team of top-tier craftsmen ensuring quality and creativity
- Serving the entire San Francisco Bay Area with personalized solutions
What people say
Phenomenal job
Artistic design eye
Talented team
Award-winning designs
Personalized solutions
Services
Pool Construction
We design and build custom swimming pools tailored to your property's unique characteristics. Our construction includes advanced engineering for hillside installations, infinity edges, and integrated water features. Clients receive personalized consultations to create pools that maximize enjoyment while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic harmony with surrounding landscapes.
Landscape Design
Our landscape design services transform backyards into functional, beautiful environments. We create cohesive plans that integrate hardscaping, plant selection, and architectural elements. From modern minimalist designs to traditional gardens, we focus on enhancing property value while creating spaces optimized for relaxation and entertainment.
Outdoor Kitchens
We construct fully equipped outdoor kitchens featuring premium appliances, custom cabinetry, and durable countertops. Our designs incorporate versatile cooking elements like pizza ovens, side burners, and wet bars. Each kitchen is engineered for weather resistance while maintaining aesthetic continuity with the home's architectural style.
Shade Structures
We install custom shade solutions including wooden pergolas, aluminum louvered systems, and solid-roof pavilions. Our structures provide sun protection while incorporating optional features like lighting, heating, and sound systems. Each design balances functionality with visual appeal to create comfortable outdoor living areas.
Fire Features
We design and build fire pits, fireplaces, and fire tables that extend outdoor usability into evenings. Our installations use premium materials for safety and durability, with customization options for size, shape, and decorative elements. These features create focal points that enhance ambiance and social interaction in outdoor spaces.
People
Don Vivatson
Owner/Lead Designer
With over 40 years in the industry, Don founded Alderland after training under a master garden designer at Diablo Nursery. His award-winning work has been featured in Sunset Magazine and California Landscape Contractors Magazine. He oversees all projects, ensuring creative vision and technical excellence in every backyard transformation.
Questions
What services does Alderland offer?
We specialize in custom pool construction, landscape design, outdoor kitchens, fire features, shade structures, and backyard renovations across the Bay Area.
Which areas do you serve?
We serve all San Francisco Bay Area counties including Marin, Napa, Sonoma, Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, and Santa Clara.
How experienced is your team?
With 40+ years in business and over 1,100 completed projects, our owner has industry-recognized expertise dating to the 1970s.
Can you handle both pool and landscape projects?
Yes, we provide full-service design and construction for both pools and landscapes, ensuring cohesive, integrated outdoor spaces.
Do you work with existing backyards?
Absolutely—we specialize in transforming outdated or underutilized spaces into modern, functional outdoor environments tailored to your needs.
What design options are available?
We offer contemporary, traditional, and natural themes with customizable elements like infinity pools, outdoor kitchens, and smart shade systems.
Reviews (4)
Tim McCaffery
Aug 10, 2022
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I just completed a remodel of my pool and landscaping with the Alder Group, and simply stated I could not be happier. From the first meeting until the project was completed, Don always looked for ways to improve the project and at the same time ways to minimize the cost of the project. His keen eye for design saw needed simple improvements that were relatively inexpensive but had a massive effect on the overall beauty of the project.
Perhaps most importantly when the manufacturer delivered the wrong custom coping, and I worried that we would not be able to meet the deadline of a large party that was planned for my backyard; Don found a way to resolve the issue and keep the job on schedule. Don is truly one of the good guys.
Perhaps most importantly when the manufacturer delivered the wrong custom coping, and I worried that we would not be able to meet the deadline of a large party that was planned for my backyard; Don found a way to resolve the issue and keep the job on schedule. Don is truly one of the good guys.
Randi K.
May 31, 2022
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Do businesses really ghost clients? I suppose that in this post-Covid era, they do. I really felt a connection with Don and his excellent design partner. They spent hours at my house drawing up plans (in real time!) and making us feel that they were our partners. We paid $3K UPFRONT for their time and plans. We were owed another hour of their time to fine-tune. We never had this opportunity. We first met in July 2021.
We received the first draft of our design in late July '21. Respecting Don's busy schedule, I said I would call back in late November. I called, texted and emailed at least 20 times since then and have never received a response. 11 months later.no response at all. I truly hope that Don and his partners are okay. I wish they had simply said, "I don't want to take on your project". I have heard worse from service providers during Covid. It's the ghosting that bothers me. I did not expect such unprofessional behavior.
We received the first draft of our design in late July '21. Respecting Don's busy schedule, I said I would call back in late November. I called, texted and emailed at least 20 times since then and have never received a response. 11 months later.no response at all. I truly hope that Don and his partners are okay. I wish they had simply said, "I don't want to take on your project". I have heard worse from service providers during Covid. It's the ghosting that bothers me. I did not expect such unprofessional behavior.
Paulette M.
Dec 30, 2021
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Unfortunately, we would not be able to recommend the Alder Group. Don is nice, but there is absolutely no follow up! He is very responsive in the design phase or at least until all of that fee is collected, and then he will ghosts you. Lots of excuses for the slow responses, and ultimately no response at all. Don doesn't return phone calls or emails. Promised to deliver a reconfiguration of items discussed within a week. That was ten weeks ago. After several emails and no responses, we have decided not to consider the Alder Group for our project.
Jon B.
Apr 04, 2020
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My yard as never looked better. Walked me through care and how to maintain the plants. It's very empowering to be able to change your landscape and this company comes highly recommended by my entire neighborhood.
