Raphael Steinberg has worked as a landscape gardener for over 20 years.  He has worked for many clients with particularly small outdoor areas, which is often the case in NYC.  As such, has become quite the expert in the design and maintenance of miniature gardens.

Today, based in Rishon LeTzion, Israel, Steinberg’s expertise and focus are on the creative element in designing and building gardens. Since he is a fan of ponds, he will encourage his clients – where practical – to install one.  “In Israel there is talk of water shortages so people’s natural inclinations steer away from having a pond.  But what they do not realize is that ponds do not take up that much water and that waterfalls use recycled water.  This means there is very little waste.  Further, the tranquility this kind of landscaping achieves is tremendous.”

One aspect of Steinberg’s work is finding the balance between the creation of a functional garden while beautifying it.  “This can be challenging to say the least, especially when there is a space limitation,” Steinberg explains.  “However, I really enjoy it as I believe that the outdoors is so important and can have such potential to be a huge part of a relaxing day.”

Raphael Steinberg has found that during the coronavirus crisis and lockdown, he has taken on more clients and his current clients have expanded their needs and desires.  “It makes sense really,” he explains.  “If you think about it, with people spending so much more time at home, they want the best possible environment so home improvement is more commonplace.  Add to that the difficulty in having any kind of outdoor activities and they seek to transform their garden into a Zen place of being and they seem to love my creative and imaginative ideas. It’s the perfect, healthy escape.”