Podcast 1214: How to Design a Luxury Outdoor Space: Tips from Award-Winning Landscaper Ryan Prange

Welcome to another episode of Beyond the Bottom Line—a business-focused extension of the acclaimed Inside Personal Growth podcast. While Inside Personal Growth explores personal development, leadership, and wellness, Beyond the Bottom Line dives into the world of entrepreneurship, innovation, and the real stories behind purpose-driven businesses making a difference.

In this episode, host Greg Voisen speaks with Ryan Prange, the founder of the award-winning Falling Waters Landscape, based in Encinitas, California.

From Family Roots to Design Leadership

Raised in a family steeped in landscape maintenance, Ryan began his journey at a young age working alongside his father. His early exposure laid the foundation for what would become a groundbreaking business in outdoor design. What sets Ryan apart is that he never followed the industry "rules." Instead, Falling Waters Landscape developed its own identity—grounded in clean lines, modern minimalism, and water-conscious design.

“I never worked for anybody else… so I didn’t have the industry telling me what I could and couldn’t do.”

What Makes Falling Waters Unique?

Rather than offering cookie-cutter solutions, Ryan and his team focus on customized, eco-conscious landscapes that are both beautiful and livable. From using natural materials and maximizing usable space to integrating hardscapes and reducing maintenance, their projects are as practical as they are stunning.

One of their standout features? They handle both design and installation. This design-build model ensures a consistent vision from sketch to completion—saving clients time, money, and stress.

“We don’t consider ourselves just vendors—we’re collaborators.”

High-End Aesthetic, Mid-Range Accessibility

While Falling Waters Landscape is known for working with high-end clients in areas like Rancho Santa Fe and Point Loma, Ryan is expanding his focus to serve more middle-market homeowners—people who value thoughtful design even if their budget isn’t massive. He believes luxury design can be scaled thoughtfully for homes of all sizes.

Challenges That Inspire Innovation

Ryan discusses one of their most complex projects, Nicole’s Garden in Carlsbad—a tiered landscape including a pool, cold plunge, sauna, and fire feature, all on a sloped lot. Navigating municipal codes and elevation challenges, the project reflects the firm’s strength in both creativity and execution.

Design Philosophy: Trust Over Tech

Interestingly, Ryan Prange avoids over-reliance on 3D renderings. While his team can produce digital mockups, he believes in co-creating with the client and letting the design evolve through dialogue and trust.

“A beautiful picture doesn’t mean it can be built—or built within your budget.”

The Future of Landscaping

Ryan sees a shift in trends—from stark, gray minimalism to more colorful, personal, and functional spaces. He believes homeowners are now looking for sanctuaries—places to relax, entertain, and reconnect with nature.

He's also embracing smaller spaces with multi-purpose features, such as benches that double as retaining walls and compact outdoor kitchens.

Ready to Redesign Your Outdoor Space?

If you’re considering investing in your home’s outdoor environment, Falling Waters Landscape is a name worth remembering. With a commitment to client trust, sustainable design, and hands-on project management, Ryan and his team deliver outdoor transformations that go far beyond the bottom line.

Learn more and connect with Ryan here:

• ✦Website
• ✦Instagram
• ✦Facebook
• ✦LinkedIn

You may also refer to the transcripts below for the full transcription (not edited) of the interview.