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How Helena Chanko Is Transforming Ordinary Backyards into Dreamy, Modern Oases—One Project at a Time
NATIONWIDE - JULY 2025 - (USAnews.com) — When Helena Chanko moved to San Diego, she didn’t just bring her design background—she brought vision. With a sharp eye for detail and an intuitive understanding of space, Helena quickly became one of Southern California’s most sought-after outdoor designers. From barren backyards to breathtaking escapes, her designs blur the lines between art, architecture, and nature. But her journey to becoming the go-to landscaping expert in San Diego wasn’t a straightforward one. In fact, Helena’s path to landscape design began far from the outdoors.From Interiors to Exteriors: A Creative Evolution
Helena’s career began in the world of interior design and home staging, where she honed her skills in spatial planning and aesthetic refinement. She worked with major home developers like KB Homes in the Bay Area, lending her artistic touch to new developments and preparing homes for sale. In that world, she made a name for herself by transforming spaces into functional, inviting environments that buyers couldn’t resist. But, after relocating to San Diego, something shifted. “I saw how much potential California yards had—not just for aesthetics, but for lifestyle,” Helena reflects. “People here live outside as much as inside, and I wanted to help them create spaces that felt luxurious, personalized, and functional.” This realization led to a pivot in her career—one that would ultimately shape the future of her professional life. She knew the magic of a well-designed space wasn’t confined to the four walls of a house. It extended into the outdoors, where people could experience relaxation, connection, and joy.Designing Dreams, One Yard at a Time
Helena’s move into landscaping was a natural evolution. Launching her own landscape design and build company, she quickly gained a reputation for creating clean, modern, and low-maintenance outdoor spaces. Whether designing Mediterranean courtyards, modern zen patios, or resort-like backyards for families, Helena’s work is characterized by a distinct style—a harmonious blend of structured hardscapes, curated greenery, and functional elements like built-in seating, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens. “Design is about understanding the homeowner’s lifestyle,” Helena explains. “It’s not about copying what you see on Pinterest; it’s about listening and designing something that truly reflects how people want to live outside.” She combines this personalized approach with an unwavering attention to detail, ensuring that every outdoor space is both beautiful and functional.A Woman in a Male-Dominated Field
What truly sets Helena apart isn’t just her designs, but the fact that she’s a woman leading in an industry historically dominated by men. As a licensed landscape contractor, Helena is one of the few women at the forefront of landscape design in Southern California. She partners with contractors across the state to bring her vision to life, and though it wasn’t easy at first, she’s now become a role model for women looking to break into the field. “It took grit to be taken seriously,” Helena admits. “But my results speak for themselves. Now, I use my experience to mentor other women who want to break into this industry too.” Helena’s unique perspective as a female leader in a traditionally male space has allowed her to push boundaries and bring fresh ideas to the table. Her mentorship programs and digital courses are helping a new generation of landscape designers and home service entrepreneurs get started without the need for years of schooling or a massive financial investment.Beyond the Backyard: Building a Brand and a Movement
Helena’s influence extends beyond individual projects and into broader areas of education and entrepreneurship. Through her mentorship programs and online resources, she’s providing aspiring designers and business owners with the tools they need to succeed—whether it’s starting their own landscape design business or learning to navigate the construction side of the industry. Her message is clear: You don’t need permission to build the life you want. You just need a plan—and someone who has walked the path to show you the way.What’s Next for Helena Chanko?
As the demand for Helena’s expertise continues to grow, she’s expanding her services to meet the needs of clients across the country. Virtual design consultations and e-design services are now available, allowing Helena to reach homeowners beyond San Diego and help them create their own dream outdoor spaces. But no matter how far her influence spreads, Helena remains committed to the core values that have made her a success: creativity, precision, and a deep understanding of her clients’ needs. She is redefining what it means to design with intention, from the ground up—literally. “I want to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in landscaping,” Helena says. “But above all, I want to help people create outdoor spaces that are not just beautiful, but functional and sustainable.”Helena’s Outdoor Design Tips
- Start with function: Before anything else, think about how you’ll use the space—whether it’s for entertaining, relaxing, or gardening—and design accordingly.
- Mix textures: For added visual interest, combine pavers, gravel, wood, and greenery in your design.
- Choose climate-smart plants: In areas like Southern California, it’s crucial to select plants that are drought-tolerant and environmentally responsible.
- Layer lighting: Add ambiance and dimension to your outdoor spaces with string lights, in-ground LEDs, or sconces.
- Think like a minimalist: Less is more—creating a clean, uncluttered space is key to achieving a modern, luxurious feel.