Landscaping: Heritage Pointe Lake 001

This home on the lake in Heritage Pointe was a true diamond in the rough when we were called in to help design and implement a new landscape. The existing landscaping didn’t function very well with overgrown shrubs and the backyard bisected by a rough sandstone boulder wall that didn’t retain enough for the lawn to be useful. A dangerous set of rough stairs led down to the beach and dock. We were able to keep the stamped concrete patio under the upper deck, but everything else was changed. Our client’s desire was to maximize the functionality of the space with a modern contemporary feel. Entertaining and family time was the priority, plus taking full advantage of the lakeside location. In the initial planning stages, we explored how to incorporate the spa, develop a firepit area, a putting green, and terrace to improve functionality and level the beach area better. A swimming pool was discussed but initially set aside as we explored how the space could be utilized.

As the design process continued, we began incorporating the swimming pool into the concept, initially a smaller plunge style pool and then progressing to a sport style pool, 32 feet by 19 feet. Sport pools are typically 6’ deep at the center and taper up to shallower at the ends. For this project we also included a walk-in step and a ledge along the lake side of the pool. We also explored the idea of a vanishing edge pool overlooking the lake but in order to maximize functional pool space we instead used a narrow pool deck on the lake side for an unimpeded view of the lake that emulates this effect and takes maximum advantage of the lake side setting. The cover system is a motorized safety cover which can be closed and locked when the pool is not in use, eliminating the need for a 6’ perimeter fence as well as saving energy and maintenance costs. The pool deck is stamped concrete blending to pavers for the surrounding patio space. A custom wood privacy screen frames the end of the pool providing some privacy to the neighboring home and visually enclosing the upper terrace on the south end. The pool is the jewel of this backyard, but every square inch was utilized to its best effect. The terracing is a critical component, and we broke up the spaces into separate living areas while also maintained good flow from the back door all the way to the lake. The spa is positioned overlooking the pool and close to the door for winter use. This level utilizes the existing covered patio space to house an outdoor kitchen area that also opens to the pool deck. Stepping down to the pool level; the spa can also be accessed from this side as well as the kitchen with bar seating, a place to charge devices, and a conveniently located fridge for beverages. This terrace also is the sunniest spot for poolside lounging on the upper patio. A topless glass railing protects this area from some wind while maintaining the view out over Heritage Lake. Lastly on this level a small lawn area for games and pets. Synthetic turf was chosen for its low maintenance attributes and looks great all year long. The lush green color compliments and softens the surrounding pavers and concrete.

Flowing down to the next level is a gas firepit for a relaxing seating space overlooking the lake for year- round use. The design terraced this area with changes in elevation of two feet or less, to eliminate the need for handrails that would impede the view of the lake. The patio is constructed of large format slab pavers which contrasts to the finish used on the stamped concrete and the retaining walls. All the retaining walls are made of concrete that was then treated with what is called a ‘rag finish’ to give the textured colored effect. A sealer applied protects the finish and really pops the colors. What is a lake-front property without a dock and a beach? The lake side of this backyard was developed with a sand beach for lounging and an area to store the lake toys, like paddle boards and kayaks. The original dock was upgraded to a new dock and gangway made from composite materials for a fresh low maintenance look and long lifespan. This area can also be used in the winter when the lake is used for skating and hockey. A foot-wash was provided at this level as a convenient way for beach goers to leave the sand on the beach before returning to poolside.

A backyard with a pool must look great but also function well, we needed a space for the pool equipment and some of the maintenance gear. A small shed was constructed to the side of the house out of view but made from durable low maintenance materials that compliments the house. Maximizing the functional spaces in the backyard reduced the garden spaces, but we have just enough greenery in strategic locations to soften everything and tie the home to the site. Pool projects tend to have a longer timeline due to all the extra steps involved in pool construction, especially on a tight access site like this one. In order to have this pool up and running as soon as possible, we began construction in the fall with the excavation of the pool and a start on the terracing. We then built a tarp enclosure over the pool area that could be heated, this allowed pool construction to continue over the winter months. The following spring, we continued with a progression of trades to complete the project. Due to tight access and the specific requirements of each crew, we had to carefully time each stage of the project to allow each crew to complete their work unimpeded, but also stay on our timeline for completion.

Our clients and our team are very proud of how this project turned out. The decision to focus the backyard on the swimming pool and maximizing the lakeside setting for entertainment was worth all the effort that went into the landscape design and construction.