Francesco Saltarelli is a Montreal-based landscape architect and entrepreneur known for designing functional, stylish and sustainable outdoor spaces.
As founder of Saltarelli Outdoor Design, he specializes in transforming rooftops, backyards and urban green spaces into luxurious retreats that combine beauty with practicality. With a career rooted in horticulture and landscape design, Francesco has become a respected figure in Montreal’s landscaping industry.
Born and raised in Montreal with Italian roots, Francesco’s love of nature began in his grandfather’s backyard garden, where he spent countless hours tending vines and vegetables. Today, he continues to draw inspiration from nature while pushing the boundaries of urban landscaping by incorporating sustainable practices, native plants and creative design solutions for his clients.
Can you tell us something about yourself and your work?
I’m Francesco Saltarelli, founder of Saltarelli Outdoor Design in Montreal. I design outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and functional. My work ranges from backyards and roof terraces to small urban gardens. I try to create spaces in which people feel connected to nature, even in the city.
How would you describe your personal or professional mood in three words and explain why?
Creative, patient and practical. Creative because every project requires a new approach. Patient because working with plants and clients requires time and care. Practical because I want every space to be usable and not just beautiful.
What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
I’ve been cycling around Montreal since I was a teenager. I use it to explore neighborhoods and find design inspiration. Some of my best ideas come from just driving around and noticing gardens, rooftops, and textures.
What is your favorite TV show right now?
I’m really excited about Chef’s Table at the moment. I love seeing how chefs combine creativity with technique. It’s inspirational for design because you see how passion leads to a complete experience.
Which social media app do you use the most these days?
Instagram. It’s visual and lets me see what other designers, architects and even clients around the world are doing. I also share my projects and ideas there.
What was the first social media app you ever joined?
Facebook. I used it to stay connected with friends and family. This was back when everyone just shared photos and updates.
Are there any influencers or YouTubers you never miss content from?
I follow several landscape architects and gardeners from Europe and North America. There are always new techniques, plant combinations and design trends to see. One account I never miss is a roof garden designer from Copenhagen.
Are there any accounts or pages that people in your industry absolutely must follow?
The Instagram and Pinterest pages definitely focused on urban gardening, sustainable landscaping, and creative outdoor spaces. They are great for inspiration and show what is possible in small or difficult spaces.
Do you listen to podcasts related to your area of expertise or niche?
Yes, I listen to gardening and landscaping podcasts when I drive or bike to work. They often include discussions about sustainable practices, customer management and creative approaches to urban outdoor spaces.
What’s the best advice you’ve heard from a podcast or interview?
One piece of advice that stuck with me was to design with patience. One designer said, “If you rush the plan, the space will feel rushed.” This really resonates because outdoor spaces need time to grow and develop, just like the people who use them.
If you could collaborate with any influencer or celebrity, who would it be?
I would love to work with a chef who has a passion for farm-to-table cooking. Imagine designing a rooftop or garden kitchen that grows ingredients and doubles as a beautiful entertaining area. I find this combination of food, design and nature exciting.
What habit, trick, or tool do you swear by to stay informed or inspired?
Cycling around the city is my favorite habit. It allows me to notice colors, textures and spatial arrangements that I might otherwise miss. I also keep a small sketchbook to jot down ideas when inspiration strikes. It’s simple, but it keeps the creativity flowing.
