Introducing these separate bodies of water, each with their own specific purpose, adds tremendous dimension and appeal to this backyard oasis. Much attention was given to designing and projecting different sounds the water feature emitted to further mask the road noise and replace it with pleasant background noise, but still allow for intimate conversation nearby.
Perhaps one of the most interesting elements is the addition of a natural sand beach play area directly adjacent to the pool terrace. This allows for the interaction of entire families as each person can be entertained while remaining close together. A natural stone staircase up from the beach sand allows pedestrians to access and walk the open natural areas of the property—gently curving garden bed edges to enhance the natural feel. This turf layout technique, along with a mulched ‘ring’ created around each tree in the lawn, helps reduce ongoing maintenance as riding mowers can efficiently navigate these borders. A play structure was also installed on the opposite side of the pool in an adjoining lawn area within close distance of the parents’ watchful eyes.
Conclusion
As a landscape designer or installer, it is good to keep in mind these design principles that were used to address the challenges and create interesting features. These ideas are applicable to a project of any size and scale. The vision must start with the designer as it is his or her responsibility to present sound ideas and solutions to clients to continue to raise the bar in the industry and provide a product and service that has positive and tangible affects on the daily lives of their families.
Jason Jayne is the business manager at Tumber & Associates, a landscape design-and-build firm headed by Randy Tumber, who has been designing and building natural landscapes for more than 35 years. The company specializes in mature, native landscape projects that lie just north of the Greater Toronto Area, planning and developing entire sites and project for its clients. Jayne been with the company for more than 15 years and regularly contributes articles and photography to many industry and consumer outlets. He can be reached via e-mail at jason@tumber.ca. For more information, visit www.tumber.ca.
