Sketching the ‘outdoor oasis’
The starting point for the makeover included a quick sketch of how the finished project would look. The plans included a pool deck with a new, 1-m (3-ft) wide coloured- and stamped-concrete band, along with a patio finished in interlocking stone using a complementary colour. The patio was designed to provide separate spaces for lounging and dining, while a remote sitting area, shaded by a pergola, was also included in the plans. A new retaining wall and privacy fence, which would open up the space at the backside of the pool, allowed for creation of another sitting area.
It was decided that the barbecue pad would be placed around the corner from the entrance to the kitchen to keep it hidden from the dining area, while keeping it close enough to provide efficient traffic flow. A fenced dog run was planned for the side yard, complete with pea stone surfacing to allow the dog to be part of the backyard excitement.
Plans for the softscaping included a variety of foliage to highlight the main focal points in each corner of the yard, while buffer and privacy plantings would be used to soften the fences and eventually provide privacy from neighbours.
Upon presenting the sketch, the client requested the design also have a Tuscan feel, having been inspired by this architectural style while on a recent European vacation. Accommodating this request was not a problem. Adding Tuscan columns to the pergola shade structure, Thuja occidentalis (Degroot’s spire cedars) and planter pots on the hard surfaces, brought simple elegance and Old World charm to the traditional landscape.
Planning the logistics
After the design scheme was approved, it was time to start planning logistics. To avoid any damage to the pool’s fittings and coping during removal of the broken and cracked concrete from around the pool’s edge, a swimming pool builder was brought in to assess the damage and determine what was needed to bring the pool up to standard.
It was suggested the pool needed new perimeter coping; since the concrete deck was being removed, replacement of the liner, original plumbing and entry stairs were also recommended.
While the pool was not the original concern, it was the main focal point of the backyard and the entire landscape renovation was centred on it. Although the client did not originally intend to renovate the pool, as with most renovation projects, the snowball effect took hold. The simple landscape transformation turned into a complete poolscape renovation with a total cost of more than $40,000. In the end, the client was happy to finally have the ‘backyard oasis’ they always wanted. The following spring, landscape lighting was installed, which allowed them to enjoy their outdoor living space well after the sun set.
With the right client and an accommodating design scheme, any project can be easily transformed from a simple ‘fixer upper’ to a complete renovation that effectively extends the homeowners’ indoor living space.
By keeping an open mind and listening to the clients’ key desires, it is possible to create a successful and satisfying project that can generate referrals for years to come.
Dave Wright is a design/build landscape architect and president of Wright Landscape Services. After working as a consultant for several years on projects around North America and Asia, he returned to the family business and built the company into a full-service landscaping firm. He can be reached via e-mail at davew@wright.on.ca.
