By Jason Cramp
Surrounding a completely renovated prestige home on a ravine lot in an upscale Toronto neighbourhood, no luxury was spared on this elegant project, designed and built entirely by Betz Pools.
The homeowners, looking to follow-up the extensive work completed on their home with a full outdoor renovation, had a 4.8- x 9.7-m (16- x 32-ft) custom rectangular gunite pool installed in the heart of their backyard, which complements the home’s modern architecture. Luxury amenities include a retractable cover, azure blue interior, and deep-end corner swim-out benches, while a large patio, finished in Credit Valley flagstone, lends added sophistication to the space.
The outside of the pool shell forms a retaining wall; multiple levels are established using sets of stairs situated at the end of the pool and beside the nearby gunite spa, leading to a basement walkout. Adjacent to the spa is a covered lounge area, which provides the perfect space for the homeowners and their guests to enjoy an intimate evening next to a custom fire feature.
To satisfy the city’s four-sided fencing requirement, Betz installed tempered glass panels around the pool area. This enclosure not only serves as a wind barrier, but also creates an ample enclosed dining area.
The backyard transitions seamlessly from day to evening thanks to strategically placed up-lighting features, which illuminates both the pool deck and surrounding plant life, while light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures light up the interior of the swimming pool.
Moving to the front of the home, where the house’s floor-to-ceiling glass is complemented by a lush forest glen setting, a custom waterfall, which empties into a gently curving stream, provides an attractive focal point. To complete the picture, a variety of shrubs and ground covers were added to supplement the pre-existing landscape, while a stepping stone path—built of weathered limestone and granite accent boulders—and a small bridge lead to the front door.
