Business Details
Sustainable Landscaping & Japanese Garden Design in Asheville
Third Stone Design specializes in creating beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor spaces that blend sustainable practices with traditional Japanese gardening techniques. Our commitment to environmental stewardship drives every project, ensuring landscapes support both present and future generations. With owner-operator Jeff Harris' expertise in environmental studies and certified permaculture design, we combine scientific knowledge with artistry to craft healing outdoor environments.Jeff's decade-long immersion in Osaka, Japan deepened his understanding of stone placement and tree care under master gardener Masashi Mike Oshita. As active members of the Aesthetic Pruners Association and the North American Japanese Garden Association, we maintain rigorous professional standards while delivering personalized solutions for residential and commercial properties.
Services
Pruning
Stonework
Waterfalls/Ponds
Structures
Ikebana Class
Highlights and features
- We have a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies with soil science specialization
- Certified permaculture designers since 2015
- Specialists in Japanese gardening techniques with master instructor training
- Active members of premier professional gardening associations
- Owner-operated company ensures direct expertise on every project
Associations and certifications
- Permaculture Research Institute of Australia
Services
Pruning
Our specialized pruning services maintain tree health while enhancing aesthetic appeal through traditional Japanese techniques. We focus on proper branch structure development and plant longevity while respecting natural growth patterns. This precision approach improves air circulation, reduces disease risk, and creates visually balanced landscapes that evolve beautifully over time.
Stonework
Expert stone placement creates enduring garden structures using natural materials selected for geological harmony. We design and install stone pathways, retaining walls, and focal points that withstand seasonal changes while maintaining artistic integrity. Each rock feature complements surrounding vegetation and water elements for cohesive landscape composition.
Waterfalls/Ponds
We construct sustainable water features that integrate ecological balance with traditional Japanese design principles. Our engineered systems ensure proper filtration and water circulation while maintaining natural aesthetics. Each installation creates soothing auditory elements and habitat spaces that enhance overall garden tranquility and biodiversity.
Structures
Custom-built garden structures provide functional spaces that harmonize with natural surroundings. We create durable arbors, tea houses, and shade pavilions using sustainably sourced materials. Each design emphasizes structural longevity while incorporating traditional joinery techniques that showcase craftsmanship without compromising practicality.
Ikebana Class
Our Ikenobo Ikebana classes teach traditional Japanese flower arranging principles to students of all ages. The curriculum emphasizes spatial composition, asymmetry, and seasonal awareness through hands-on instruction. Students develop mindfulness practices while creating arrangements that reflect natural beauty and philosophical depth inherent in this 600-year-old art form.
People
Jeff Harris
Owner-Operator
Environmental studies graduate with soil science expertise and certified permaculture designer. Trained under Japanese master gardener Masashi Mike Oshita after living in Osaka for ten years.
Sayo Harris
Ikenobo Professor
Third-grade professor teaching Ikenobo Ikebana since 2009. Specializes in connecting students with nature through flower arranging while emphasizing traditional techniques and mindfulness practices.
Questions
What makes your landscaping approach unique?
We combine certified permaculture principles with traditional Japanese gardening techniques developed through our decade in Japan and ongoing association memberships.
Do you offer both design and installation services?
Yes, we provide complete landscape solutions from initial design through construction, including pruning, stonework, water features, and garden structures.
What experience does Jeff Harris bring to projects?
Jeff holds a BS in Environmental Studies with soil science focus and Permaculture Design Certificate. He studied directly under Masashi Mike Oshita, Buncombe County's Japanese master gardener.
Are Ikebana classes available for all skill levels?
Our Ikenobo Ikebana classes accommodate beginners through intermediate students with ages ranging from 7 to 94. The 2-hour sessions include necessary materials for new students.
How do you ensure sustainable landscape solutions?
We use native plants, natural water cycles, and organic materials while applying permaculture principles learned through Permaculture Research Institute of Australia certification.
What areas do you serve?
Primarily serving Asheville and surrounding areas, we focus on creating landscapes that harmonize with the unique ecological characteristics of Western North Carolina.
