Chicago Specialty Gardens, Inc. - Chicago, Illinois

Cyndi R. R.

The custom terrace in our condo, which was originally designed by Chicago Specialty Gardens, has been a source of enjoyment for us over the past 17 years. We collaborated with their team for seasonal maintenance and the arrangement of summer and fall plantings in our 12 window boxes.

However, in 2018, our building underwent significant renovations which required the demolition of our terrace. In light of this, we consulted with Phil and his design team from Chicago Specialty Gardens to create a more contemporary space that would include a kitchen, given that my husband is a chef. Additionally, we sought to ensure easy access to the terrace in case of any future issues with our building. The team exceeded our expectations by designing a truly incredible space. I have attached before and after images for you to see. The living area spans approximately 600 + square feet, complete with a kitchen equipped with a GRILL, sink and counters, as well as a dining room and a living space. We also have a Tucci umbrella to provide shade from the sun.

Following the harsh Chicago winters each year, we eagerly anticipate the installation of our annual plantings by the Chicago Specialty Gardens team. Their service has been exceptional, and we couldn't be more pleased with our terrace. In fact, they have become like family to us.

Lori K.

CSG has been a key partner in our outdoor lives since 1997! When we lived in a single family home in Ravenswood, CSG beautified our front and back yards with structures, walkways, a garden and plantings appropriate to the style of the home (vintage) and with respect to sun/shade areas.

Now, we are in a condo with fabulous 4th floor decks. CSG made those gorgeous, too and far more livable by adding a retractable awning and a self-flushing doggie relief area that saves us countless trips down/up 4 flights of stairs with our 3 pups. Especially appreciated late at night and early in the morning.

The team is creative, responsive and collaborative. We've had so many compliments on their designs and work. Highly recommended!

Robyn R.

I have been working with Chicago Specialty Gardens for almost 10 years now and can say nothing but good things. They are always responsive and respectful of my time and have beautiful, creative landscaping ideas. I have used them for every space of my home, both inside and out and will continue to be a customer of theirs for the next 10 years!

Amy K.

It has been such a pleasure collaborating with CSG on client projects. I am always amazed at how they are able to transform an outdoor space into a beautiful urban oasis. CSG's team and your attention to detail are exceptional.

Georgia B.

From start to finish we have had a terrific experience with the team at Chicago Specialty Garden. They were patient with us as we waited for other work to be completed on our end and worked to get all ends of the project ready to execute on their end. They followed through with updates on any delays. They were timely with completion and the end result is spectacular. We just had our wrap up meeting and I was handed a binder and thumb drive of all instructions, warranties and contacts. In my 15 years of working with professional landscape companies, I have never received something like this and am grateful to have it all in one place. Thank you to all who help make our project a success.

Tessa J.

Review for Chicago Specialty Gardens - A 20-Year Journey of Excellence

I have had the immense pleasure of working with Chicago Specialty Gardens, a boutique landscape design company, for the past two decades, and it has been an extraordinary journey of excellence. From the very first moment I engaged their services, I knew I had found something truly special. Their commitment to crafting captivating and unique outdoor spaces is unparalleled, and their dedication to maintaining them has kept me coming back year after year.

Over these twenty years, Chicago Specialty has consistently demonstrated their expertise and passion for their craft. Their landscape designs have transformed my property into a breathtaking oasis that never fails to impress guests and family alike. Each project they undertake is handled with meticulous attention to detail, and their ability to seamlessly blend creativity with functionality is remarkable.

What sets Chicago Specialty apart from others is their personalized approach to every project. Phil and his team took the time to understand my preferences, vision, and lifestyle, resulting in designs that truly reflected my desires. The team's willingness to collaborate and adapt their ideas based on my input made me feel like a valued partner throughout the entire process.

Furthermore, the maintenance services offered by Chicago Specialty have been nothing short of outstanding. Their skilled team (Phil, Roger, Jaclyn) consistently keep my outdoor spaces in great condition. Whether it's regular lawn care, pruning, or seasonal planting, their attention to detail is always evident. My garden has remained a picturesque masterpiece all year round, thanks to their unwavering commitment to its upkeep.

Not only are they highly professional and skilled, but the entire team at Chicago Specialty Gardens exudes warmth and genuine care for their clients. Over the years, they have become like an extended family, and this personal touch only adds to the joy of working with them.

In summary, my 20-year relationship with Phil and Chicago Specialty Gardens has been nothing short of exceptional. Their passion, creativity, and commitment to excellence have made every interaction a delightful experience. I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone in need of landscape design and maintenance. With Chicago Specialty Gardens, you can rest assured that your outdoor space will be transformed into a work of art, and you'll gain a team dedicated to ensuring your garden thrives for years to come.

John S.

We’ve worked with Chicago Specialty Gardens multiple times over the past 20 years to design & implement upgrades to our townhome front, side and back yards including our large slate patio. The most recent major upgrade was completed in spring of 2021. The CSG design team worked closely with us in all aspects of our major upgrade which included an enlarged slate back patio, new pathways, total garden plantings design & accent lighting. The entire project went smoothly, on time & within budget. The design team offered alternatives and advice on all aspects of this major project. The working relationships with everyone were professional and interactive. Their professional advice was very helpful in making appropriate decisions. The resulting project has drawn the attention of many of our neighbors as the word spread in our townhome complex about how beautiful our yard is! We have many drop-in visitors who want to see what we’ve done! The accent lighting throughout the garden at night creates a magical space to enjoy.

Suzanne M.

Six years ago, Chicago Specialty Gardens did a complete re-do of our terrace, and we have been with them ever since. Our site was not an easy one: we are on the 43rd floor of a hi-rise condo with crazy wind conditions and building restrictions that precluded any attachments to walls. CSG built out a gorgeous terrace for us, complete with a specially engineered, free-standing, Ipe screen. Our designer had two talents often not found paired together — creativity and flexibility; she made many modifications along the way to suit our needs, and I can say that the design phase was a pure joy. Our plant material is limited in this environment. No rose gardens possible for us but we have a combination of perennials and changing annuals in our planters that thrive in these difficult conditions. Our look can change whenever we choose — some years we like the design so much that we keep it from year to year, and at other times, CSG will offer us tempting alternatives. So kudos for their horticultural expertise.

From owner, right through to designer, and to those who manage our annual maintenance, the entire team is simply without parallel. They are respectful of the building rules, (which makes our lives so much easier); are ever so careful carrying materials through our unit to the terrace; work their magic with great team coordination; and leave us to the complete and effortless enjoyment of our space. And on top, they are unfailingly responsive, friendly and considerate.

I have been meaning to write a review for Chicago Specialty Gardens, but the day-to-day often interrupts good intentions until today, when I realized procrastination was no longer an option. A few days ago, I noticed our new puppy was chewing on the wires for our lighting system. I sent an e-mail explaining the situation and within a day CSG appeared and fixed the problem. This is not an example of a one-off; it is the norm for this company. They back up their work, and when you need them, they are at the door and ready with a solution.

I might add that CSG also designed and constructed our building’s dog run. The space is beyond wonderful — it is filled with greenery; it is a peaceful respite for dog and human; and provides both privacy and opportunities for canine/people interaction. I actually look forward to taking my dog to the run.

All in, we are so grateful to be working with this great company.