Discover the Secret Gardens Experience
Guided Personally by Philip D'Amico
Every landscape should feel like a discovery.
A place that feels welcoming. Beautiful. Personal. A space designed not only for your property, but for the way you live.
That's the philosophy behind Secret Gardens.
Since 1993, we've helped homeowners create landscapes that blend artistry, horticultural expertise, and thoughtful design into outdoor spaces that can be enjoyed for years to come. Philip D'Amico opened Secret Gardens in New Orleans that year and later brought the practice to North Texas, where he now also owns Plants & Planters, a Richardson garden center that has served the metroplex since 1978.
At the heart of that experience is Philip D'Amico.
From the first consultation to the final design presentation, Philip works directly with homeowners to understand their vision and help bring it to life.
More Than a Landscape Design
At Secret Gardens, we believe great landscapes begin with listening.
Before a single plant is selected or a design is created, Philip takes the time to understand your property, your goals, and how you want to use your outdoor space.
Whether you're envisioning a new landscape, outdoor kitchen, patio, lighting system, water feature, or complete property transformation, every recommendation begins with a conversation.
No templates.
No one-size-fits-all solutions.
Just a personalized approach shaped by decades of experience.
Step 1: Personal Consultation
Every project begins with a visit to your property.
During this consultation, Philip walks the landscape with you, discusses your goals, evaluates existing conditions, and learns more about your vision for the space.
Topics may include:
- Landscape improvements
- Outdoor living areas
- Drainage concerns
- Plantings and gardens
- Lighting opportunities
- Water features
- Budget expectations
This conversation becomes the foundation for the design process.
Step 2: Design Development
Following the consultation, Philip begins creating a custom landscape plan tailored to your property and goals.
Most projects are developed using detailed 3D renderings that allow homeowners to visualize the finished landscape before installation begins.
This design phase helps transform ideas into a clear vision for the future of your property.
Philip reviewing a 3D landscape rendering.
Step 3: Visit Plants & Planters
One of the most unique aspects of the Secret Gardens experience is our connection to Plants & Planters Garden Center.
Once your design is complete, you'll be invited to our Richardson location for a private presentation.
Unlike many landscape companies, we don't simply email plans and proposals.
Instead, Philip personally walks you through the design and helps you understand how the various elements come together to create the finished landscape.
Step 4: See Your Vision Come to Life
During your presentation, you'll review your custom landscape design and explore how each element contributes to the overall vision.
For many homeowners, this is the most exciting part of the process.
Seeing your future landscape displayed visually brings confidence and clarity to the project before construction begins.
Step 5: Explore Plant Selections Together
After reviewing the design, Philip will guide you through Plants & Planters Garden Center to discuss plant selections and materials that may be incorporated into your project.
This hands-on experience allows homeowners to see many of the plants firsthand while benefiting from Philip's horticultural knowledge and years of experience.
It's a level of involvement that few landscape companies can offer.
Step 6: Refine the Details
Following the design presentation and garden center walkthrough, you'll sit down together to review project details and budget considerations.
If adjustments are needed, they can be discussed and incorporated into the design.
This collaborative process ensures the final plan reflects both your vision and project goals before installation begins.
Step 7: Bringing the Design to Life
Once the design is finalized, the Secret Gardens team begins installation.
From landscape plantings and patios to outdoor kitchens, lighting, drainage solutions, ponds, fountains, and waterfalls, every element is installed according to the approved design.
The result is a landscape built around your property, your goals, and your vision.
The Secret Gardens Difference
Personal Guidance
Work directly with Philip D'Amico throughout the design process.
Since 1993
Secret Gardens has been designing and installing since 1993, led by a founder with more than four decades in the trade.
Plants & Planters Advantage
Explore plant selections firsthand through our garden center experience.
Custom Designs
Every landscape is designed specifically for the homeowner and property.
Built for North Texas
Landscapes designed with local growing conditions, drainage challenges, and long-term performance in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I work directly with Philip D'Amico?
Yes. Philip personally conducts consultations, develops designs, and leads design presentations.
Will I be able to see my landscape before installation begins?
Yes. Most projects include detailed 3D renderings that help homeowners visualize the finished landscape before construction begins.
Where does the design presentation take place?
Design presentations are held at Plants & Planters Garden Center in Richardson.
Can changes be made to the design?
Yes. The presentation process allows for discussion and refinement before installation begins.
Why is the presentation done in person?
Philip believes homeowners benefit from reviewing the design together, discussing ideas, and seeing plant selections firsthand before moving forward.
What types of projects does Secret Gardens design and install?
Projects may include landscape renovations, plantings, patios, pathways, outdoor kitchens, lighting, drainage solutions, ponds, waterfalls, fountains, pergolas, retaining walls, and other outdoor living features.
Explore the Secret Gardens Knowledge Center for homeowner guidance on the design decisions, plant choices, outdoor features, and care considerations introduced throughout this journey.
Start Your Landscape Journey
Every great landscape begins with a conversation.
Schedule a consultation with Philip D'Amico and discover what is possible for your property.