By Jason Cramp
To turn this backyard in Maple, Ont., into a high-energy tropical retreat-like entertainment hub this homeowner was looking for, The Pool Craft Company in Richmond Hill, Ont., had to start with a blank slate.
This meant removing almost everything in the backyard that existed prior to construction. This had to be done so every new amenity the homeowner wanted, for the purpose of entertaining business clients, but still remaining fun for young children, could be seamlessly incorporated together. These elements included a spill-over spa, custom slide, fire pit, cooking station, and large cabana, which were all centred on a natural lagoon-style swimming pool.
The 6- x 14-m (20- x 47-ft) pool features a rock grotto in the deep end, which overhangs the pool ledge to create a serene area were bathers can swim beneath the slab shelf and be surrounded by falling water. A winding pool slide is also incorporated into this mammoth water feature. On the opposite side, a 2.3-m (7.5-ft) spill-over spa finished in Eramosa tiger-striped stone and Ebel coping stone is slightly raised above the pool. Square-cut flagstone was used to complete the surrounding deck area and heightens the sophistication of the backyard by giving it a unique look and feel. The built-in server, cooking station, and cabana add to the formal function of the space.
The cabana’s custom, operable-glass wall opens to the pool deck to create an open-concept poolside shelter. The glass wall also seals airtight, allowing the homeowner to use the cabana year-round.
Finally, everything was made easy to operate with the installation of an automated control system, which controls various pool/spa equipment, landscape lighting, and irrigation system.
