This project was built in two phases, starting with the front yard while we went through the permitting process and pool construction.

 

This family wanted to update their front yard, which already had some existing steel retaining and planters. We added steps down to the street for slightly easier access to the front yard, as well as a handrail. Plants, new gravel, and landscape lighting freshen it all up for some curb appeal.

​

The backyard was the heart of the project. The existing deck was undersized, and they wanted a place to entertain, hang out as a family, and relax at the end of a busy day. The pool and hot tub are the perfect place to find that relaxation, and the dining and living spaces under the covered pergola extend the home's programming, and are screened for privacy. Lush planting frame the yard and highlight the heritage live oaks. Breeze block walls add color and texture to the living space and grill area.

 

Making the pergola, decking, and pool work in the Critical Root Zones of these protected trees plus impervious coverage limitations really was like threading a needle! We're so pleased that we were able to be creative with bar grate connections between the decks and light wells in the pergola roof, which allows a finger of greenery to frame the spaces. 

​

Fencing can often be overlooked or value engineered out of a budget, but we love this narrow vertical picket at the main entry to the backyard, and clean lines of the pickets following the grade along the property line in the back. The utilitarian areas for pool equipment and yard storage are screened by subtle moments of fencing. The entry gate is a dynamic perforated steel to celebrate the threshold while providing security.