DCLA is headed by Don Cantacessi. Mr. Cantacessi’s passion for the environment began at an early age growing up on a ranch in Southern California. In his youth, he learned the value of hard work and respect for the gifts of nature. These values continued as he attended Cal Poly Pomona, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Landscape Architecture. While at Cal Poly Pomona, Mr. Cantacessi studied under some of the most prominent landscape architecture professors and honed his educational skills.

While working with various landscape architecture firms, Mr. Cantacessi trained and worked along side some of the most elite design and building professionals in Southern California. He has owned his own landscape architectural practice, DCLA, since 1991 and created an impressive portfolio of residential and commercial projects, located in Orange, San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.

At this stage in Mr. Cantacessi's career, he has become more in tuned with Clients needing guidance in smaller projects requiring the efficient use of available space where the placement of components must be properly located or materials selected. Don will make an exceptional design plan for the Client. He listens to the Clients describe their vision of the property and then analyzes the site before determining the proper design conceptual layout.

In an effort to encourage project cooperation, DCLA collaborates with other project consultants as needed, local agencies and the related contractors. DCLA delivers thorough design exhibits with easily understood construction drawings. Competitive fees are always considered for all projects.

With several decades of collaborative and private practice, Mr. Cantacessi has worked on a variety of projects, been featured in various magazines, including DREAM HOMES, and continues to be a valued and reputable expert in the field.

Let your vision become a reality with the impressive design skills, professional experience, vast knowledge and reputable expertise offered by DON CANTACESSI LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT.

Some of Don's Favorite Plants Include:

Trees - Arbutus Marina and Olea Europaea
Swan Hill (fruitless)

Shrubs - Grevillea Noellii and Viburnum Spring Bouquet

Succulents - Agave Attenuata Ray of Light and
Calandrina Grandiflora

Groundcovers - Dymondia Margaretae and
Senecio Mandraliscae

Grasses - Mexican Feather Grass and
Dianella T. Variegated

Vines - Pandorea Jasminoides and
Clytostoma Callistegioides

Fire Resistant Plants - Lavendula Dentata and
Heuchera Fire Chief