Your home is more than a place to live; it is a sanctuary from an uncertain world. Guided by the mantra “Think Outside, Live Outside,” we create peaceful, harmonious environments that flow seamlessly from interior to exterior, inviting a deeper connection with nature while expanding the boundaries of the home.
We approach environmental design as a dynamic art form, prioritizing function over decoration and focusing on sustainable, water-conscious xeriscaping to ensure a beauty that is as resilient as it is refined.
Featured in Metropolitan Home, Mid-Century Home, Atlanta Magazine, and Pro Landscaper USA, our award-winning work spans more than 15 years across California, the U.S., and Mexico City. From our California Central Coast-based studio, we deliver intentional designs from concept to execution, elevating the experience of being Home.
At Michael Bernier Design, we believe realizing your dream outdoor space should be an exciting yet stress-free experience. With the completion of hundreds of projects, our proven process is designed to bring your vision to life—guided by expertise, creativity, and care every step of the way.
At Michael Bernier Design, we believe realizing your dream outdoor space should be an exciting yet stress-free experience. With the completion of hundreds of projects, our proven process is designed to bring your vision to life—guided by expertise, creativity, and care every step of the way.
After our initial Discovery Call, where we discuss the goals, scope, and budget for your project, we schedule a comprehensive on-site visit. This allows us to thoroughly assess your property and gain a deep understanding of your vision, lifestyle, and desired aesthetic. This crucial first step lays the foundation for a design that’s uniquely tailored to you.
With a clear understanding of your needs, we develop a detailed conceptual design plan, including a full set of 3D renderings and mood boards, so you can visualize your space before any construction begins. Once the conceptual design is approved, we prepare construction documents as needed to ensure a smooth and seamless build process.
As construction begins, we remain actively involved through scheduled site visits to oversee progress and maintain alignment with the approved design. From materials to craftsmanship, we ensure the work meets the highest standards and reflects the vision we created together.
With the design and build completed, it’s time to pop the cork, pour the wine, and savor your stunning new outdoor living space. Thoughtfully blending the built and natural environments, the result will invite you to relax, recharge, and “Come Live Outside.”
Serving clients coast to coast and worldwide, including Arizona, Northern and Southern California, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, and Mexico City.
We are creative problem solvers. Every aspect of your design plan is thoughtfully executed with passion and attention to detail, bringing your vision to life with expert guidance every step of the way. Collaborative teamwork is at the heart of what we do, and not one of the projects you see here would be possible without the dedication, talent, and support of our incredible team.
After a prolific yet ultimately unfulfilling career as an advertising Creative Director, Michael discovered his true passion while studying Landscape architecture at UCLA, marrying his design expertise with his love for natural environments. Today, Michael's work is gaining international acclaim for pushing the boundaries of landscape architecture toward a healthier, more connected future. Named the winner of the 2025 Pro Landscaper International Award for his climate-resilient concept at Scottsdale Ranch, his work focuses heavily on the intersection of ecological harmony and human well-being. This vision is best exemplified by his work on intentional communities through the Living Human™ model—a project currently shortlisted for a prestigious international design award for its visionary approach to biophilic master planning and shared human connection.
Born and raised in Southern California, Michael’s mission is to connect people back to Nature through the garden. “I want to bring forth more beauty into the world, while inspiring and empowering others to do the same.” Driven by this mission, Michael currently teaches an online landscape design course at Emory University and will soon be launching his own Think Outside Landscape Design Academy to educate both landscape professionals and do-it-yourselfers through online courses and workshops. Michael is currently writing his first book on designing a fulfilling life by creating with Nature.
We serve clients coast to coast and world wide.
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