Featuring Landscape Designer Owen Sweeney of Mom’s Design Build
In Minnesota, where snowbanks can tower like fences and summers demand every minute of patio time, landscaping isn’t just about curb appeal—it’s about creating a functional, beautiful, and enduring outdoor environment that works with our challenging climate, not against it. That’s where a professional landscape designer steps in—not as a luxury, but as your smartest investment.
If you’re considering landscaping in Minneapolis/St. Paul or the surrounding areas, here’s why you should hire a landscape designer, and specifically why working with a design-build landscaping firm like Mom’s Design Build makes all the difference.
The Power of a Professional Landscape Designer in Minnesota
Minnesota isn’t your average climate. From freeze-thaw cycles and humid summers to unpredictable moisture and temperature swings, landscaping here requires more than a weekend DIY warrior with a Pinterest board.
“When things are outside, they’re battling all those things,” says Owen Sweeney, a professional landscape designer at Mom’s Design Build, serving the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.
Landscape designers understand space, scale, and purpose. They tailor each plan to your needs, ensure everything fits together seamlessly, and think long-term—so your outdoor space grows with you. As Owen Sweeney says, “Designers provide ideas of how things can be done, and how things should be done. They also ensure longevity and quality of the final product in our ever-changing climate.”
That blend of creativity and practical know-how is exactly why hiring a landscape designer in Minnesota is essential. Not only are you getting expert knowledge of design principles and material selections, but you’re also tapping into a deep understanding of our region’s environmental demands and city requirements to avoid costly mistakes.
Ultimately, a landscape designer helps you maximize your investment, minimize stress, and turn your yard into a space you love to live in.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make Without a Designer
DIY enthusiasm is admirable, but when it comes to outdoor design, it can be costly. One of the biggest missteps homeowners make is designing around what’s already there without considering the overall function of the space.
“People mismanage priorities,” Owen explains. “They don’t know how to manage the design overall, and it causes expensive mistakes.”
A professional landscape designer avoids these pitfalls by managing the space with intention. Every plant, stone, and feature serves a purpose. “Space management should be intentional. Prioritize the moment,” Owen says. “And the rest will follow.”
Why Design Matters in the Long Run
A designer doesn’t just make things look good—they maximize your yard’s potential for how you want to live. Whether it’s a patio for late-night bonfires or a kid-friendly backyard that evolves as your family grows, the right designer creates tailored landscape design plans that are functional now and in the future.
“It’s not just about the here and now,” says Owen. “We create designs that make your home different than your neighbor’s and reflect who you are.”
That personalized approach means the result is more than pretty—it’s purposeful.
What the Design Process Really Looks Like
At Mom’s Design Build, the process begins with an in-home consultation—because a strong design starts with getting to know you.
Designers ask thoughtful questions like, “What’s your favorite space in your home currently?” or “How would you describe your design aesthetic?”
“You have to know the person on a deeper level,” Owen says. “We’re like landscape stylists, putting out what you want to convey to the world.”
From there, the team assesses your site, navigates city codes, considers budget and feasibility, and works with you to navigate to the perfect final design. It’s a collaborative landscape design process that brings multiple experts together—from designers and coordinators to craftsmen and project managers.
“You get a myriad of experience and eyes on every detail,” Owen notes.
Check out our full design and installation process!
What Sets a Designer Apart from a Landscaper?
While landscapers are skilled at executing a plan, they typically act as order-takers—focused on installation rather than vision. “Landscapers will provide napkin drawings of plans at best. They hold a different function and purpose than a landscape designer,” says Owen. A professional landscape designer brings creative direction, deep planning, and long-term strategy to your project.
“A landscaper doing your design is like having your car dealer design your car,” Owen quips. “It takes a full-time job to do the planning.”
Designers like Owen and the team at Mom’s Design Build take that job seriously. They help you make informed financial decisions, recommend the right materials for your space and climate, navigate city codes and site constraints, provide detailed 3D renderings and more. Perhaps most importantly—they’ll tell you no to bad ideas in order to protect your investment and ensure lasting results.
The difference?
A landscaper installs.
A landscape designer guides, plans, and protects your vision.
The good news? Mom’s Design Build is your all-in-one destination for expert landscape design and a full-service landscaping team.
How to Choose the Best Landscape Designer in Minnesota
Look at their portfolio. Read reviews. But most importantly, make sure your values align.
“You’ll be in close collaboration with your designer,” Owen says. “So you want to make sure it’s a good fit.”
At Mom’s, we have a range of designers to match a variety of aesthetics, priorities, and project scopes. Our goal? To make every landscape feel like an extension of your home.
Success That Goes Beyond the Backyard
We asked Owen to share his favorite success story. His answer? It’s not about the biggest project or the boldest transformation.
“Any time a client’s goals are based around spending time with others,” he says. “I love getting sent photos of people in their space using it as it’s intended. That’s the real win. The best successes are when I build relationships and friendships with the people that hire me.”
Ready to Elevate Your Outdoor Space?
Whether you’re looking to revamp your yard or start from scratch, a professional landscape designer is your greatest asset. Minnesota backyard design solutions aren’t one-size-fits-all—and neither are our clients.
When you partner with Mom’s Design Build, you’re not just hiring a designer. You’re getting a trusted team of experts dedicated to bringing your vision to life—through thoughtful planning, expert craftsmanship, and a process rooted in collaboration and joy.
Click below to schedule a consultation today!
