Our clients decided to create a backyard oasis that centered around a new pool. Our work began by working with their contractor to site the pool and create a master plan for the backyard. Then we waited since we could not start any of our ground-breaking until the pool was complete. A full-service landscape project usually involves coordination with other contractors, which we enjoy! By working together, our clients got their dream backyard with fewer headaches along the way.
Re-Grading the Yard
Our clients’ backyard sloped away from the home, but a pool needs a level surface. Therefore, we needed to build a retaining wall to keep a new patio level with the pool. Since we had created a master plan that included the pool contractors, we asked them to leave some of the dirt from the excavation to help reestablish grade away from the pool. We built an Allen block modular retaining wall, and included a Bedford Tumbled seating wall with a Rockcast cap for entertaining and privacy.
Large Patio with Firepit
The 1700-square-foot paver patio along the pool also included a firepit area with a circular patio design. A major part of our coordination with the pool company was planning for the electrical and gas needs for their work and ours. Everything had to be installed correctly before the patio was laid. Once we had our pipes set, we were ready to place the pavers per the original design. However, we ran into supply chain issues again (the theme of 2021 and 2022). Our plan called for Reading Rock Boardwalk pavers, but the machine used to create them had broken and it was going to take a year to get it repaired! We redesigned the patio with Reading Rock Ozark pavers, which we ended up liking even more than the Boardwalk.
Since we were waiting on another contractor, we had scheduled other landscaping projects until the pool was built. Fortunately, we work with great clients, who allow us to be flexible with our completion when we need to. Once the pool was complete, we immediately installed the patio so our clients could use the pool safely. Then moved right back to our other project until it was completed.
Stairway to a Backyard Heaven
Our clients had a builder-installed stoop and staircase from the back of the house that was not particularly functional or beautiful. We removed the treated surfaces, handrail, and staircase, then resurfaced with Trex and rebuilt the staircase as a full width with 17″ treads, as well as the custom handrail. The new entryway provides a fitting transition from the house to the gorgeous backyard.
Backyard Water Feature
The patio area design also included a Moses rock water feature – stacking three different big rocks with a baby rock on top. The positioning of the feature was intentional – we wanted our clients to enjoy it from many viewpoints. They can see it from the kitchen, the firepit and the pool – a fine example of the value of a master design plan.
Finishing Touches
Adding the soft elements of the landscape design focused on easy maintenance, pops of color and privacy. At the north end of the patio, we installed Emerald Green arborvitae which grows to become a tall green fence, providing screening from the neighbors. The south side was planted with Green Giant arborvitae, which along with the seating wall, helps screen those neighbors. We also added a variety of summer blooming perennials, as well as keynote plantings and boulders for interest.
Our client called us soon after the project was complete, telling us a story we want to share with you. He was given a rare night alone in the pool. There was a full moon, the landscaping had settled in, and the air was peaceful. He said he felt like he was at a resort. He was so excited to have that new experience in his own backyard. As you can imagine, that was music to our ears.
If you are looking to create a resort-like experience in your outdoor space, reach out to us! Send us an email or give us a call at (317) 997-4803.
