LOCAL FIRM WINS TOP AWARD

Los Gatos Times Weekly

Katoscapes, Inc. a Los Gatos landscape firm, was recently presented with The 2003 Landscape Sweepstakes Award for an Atherton project that was designed build under the direction of, David Kato, founder. This project, which received a perfect "10" score by the judges, was selected as the "Best in Show" out of more than 100 entries in the yearly judging held by the California Landscape Contractors Association.

The project is a renovation of a landscape installed more than twenty years ago. The overall style, if a name were to be given, would be considered Contemporary Japanese. Because the owners wanted a park-like setting, large expanses of lawn with meandering paths were created. Large granite boulders harvested from below the Yosemite Valley were set throughout the garden using a mobile crane for access. Many trained specimen trees from Kato’s personal collection were planted in addition to the plant materials procured from commercial growers. The spa and pool were given new tile, plaster and coping. Behind the pool is a granite and ledge stone two-tier water feature which includes two stone spillways, three "floating stones", and several seat walls. A walkway leads from the pool, past the outdoor kitchen, to a private garden, also accessible from the master bedroom. Here a Trex deck cantilevers over a pond filled with water lilies and grasses. A three tiered natural granite water feature spills into the pond. This garden is enclosed by a radius fence built with sandblasted posts, resawn boards, and surfaced stringers. The project also includes raised vegetable planters, a powder coated wrought iron security fence and gate system, lighting to illuminate the entire landscape, poured in place driveway columns, and paver driveway with sandblasted exposed granite dividers and raised border.

Competition is not new to Katoscapes, as it is an activity that David has always participated in, with the belief that one of the best ways to improve is to be scrutinized by his peers. In the years that his work has been compared to others in the trade, he has received more than 60 statewide and local awards. Kato’s design/build firm, which was established in 1983, specializes in custom residential projects of various sizes and complexities. David Kato designs all projects, at times collaborating with architects, engineers, consultants, various craftpersons and other artists. Their landscape projects take anywhere from 2 months to 2 years to complete.

David’s website, katoscapes.com is a good starting point for persons interested in learning more about the company.