Francesco Saltarelli is a Montreal-based landscape designer and entrepreneur known for creating functional, stylish, and sustainable outdoor spaces.
As the founder of Saltarelli Outdoor Design, he specializes in transforming terraces, backyards and urban green spaces into luxurious retreats that blend beauty with practicality. With a career in horticulture and landscape design, Francesco has become a respected figure in the Montreal landscape industry.
Born and raised in Montreal with Italian heritage, Francesco's love of nature began in his grandfather's backyard garden, where he spent countless hours tending grapes and vegetables. Today, he continues to draw inspiration from nature while pushing the boundaries of the urban landscape, incorporating sustainable practices, native plants and creative design solutions for his clients.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and what you do?
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 places where people feel connected to nature, even in the city.
How would you describe your personal or professional spirit in three words and explain why?
Creative, patient and practical. Creative because every project requires a fresh approach. Be patient because working with plants and customers takes time and care. Practical, because I want every space to be usable, not just beautiful.
What's a fun fact about you that most people don't know?
I've been bicycling around Montreal since I was a teenager. I use it as a way to explore neighborhoods and find inspiration for design. Some of my best ideas come from simply walking around and looking at gardens, rooftops and textures.
What is your favorite TV show at the moment?
Right now, I'm really into Chef's Table. I love seeing how chefs combine creativity with technique. It's inspiring to design because you see how passion turns into a fulfilling experience.
What is your most used social media app these days?
Instagram. It's visual and lets me see what other designers, architects and even clients are doing around the world. I also share my projects and ideas there.
Which social media app did you join first?
Facebook. I used it to stay connected with friends and family. Those were the early days when everyone was just sharing pictures and updates.
Are there any influencers or creators whose content you never forget?
I follow some landscape designers and horticulturists from Europe and North America. There are always new techniques, plant combinations and design trends to be seen. One account I never forget is from a rooftop garden designer in Copenhagen.
Are there any must-follow accounts or Pages for people in your industry?
There are certainly Instagram and Pinterest pages focused on urban gardening, sustainable landscaping and creative outdoor spaces. They are great for inspiration and seeing what is possible in small or difficult spaces.
Do you listen to any podcasts related to your field or topic?
Yes, I listen to gardening and landscape design podcasts when I'm traveling or bicycling. They often discuss sustainable practices, client 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 about designing with patience. One designer said, “If you rush the planning, the space will feel rushed.” This is really relevant because outdoor spaces need time to grow and develop, just like the people who use them do.
If you could collaborate with any influencer or celebrity, who would it be?
I would love to work with a chef who is passionate about farm-to-table cooking. Imagine designing a rooftop or garden kitchen that grows ingredients and also serves as a beautiful entertaining space. That combination of food, design and nature is exciting to me.
What's a habit, hack, or tool you swear by to stay informed or motivated?
Cycling in the city is my habit. It allows me to notice colors, textures, and spatial layouts that I might otherwise have missed. I also keep a small sketchbook to jot down ideas when inspiration strikes. It's simple, but it keeps the creativity flowing.