Successful design/installation starts with listening and understanding

CREATING THE IDEAL BACKYARD

Last spring, Wood Water and Stone, a customized landscape design and construction firm in London, Ont., met with a couple to discuss their plans for creating the perfect backyard. Although the client had an existing swimming pool, which was surrounded by a stamped concrete deck, they asked the builder to rough in the plumbing for a future waterfall and had the pool equipment installed on a large 4.8- x 4.8-m (16- x 16-ft) stamped-concrete pad at the time the pool was installed. Even though the backyard appeared unfinished, the owner had a vision for its future completion and had laid the groundwork for it to happen. Thanks to this forethought, the ability to add a poolside waterfall and equipment shed was a simple process. The waterfall To get a feel for the different options available, the client visited other projects to help in selecting the type of rock, head height, length and shape of the waterfalls. Due to the pool’s apron (i.e. concrete ground covering) not having footings set under to account for the extra weight of the rock, the options for the spillway’s height were limited. Therefore, the spillway was constructed wider than originally planned and some of the original rocks sitting on the apron were substituted for precast stones (i.e. faux rock), bearing only half the weight. Piers were also dug and poured with concrete, while the step design of the waterfall was also formed with concrete. The design incorporated a waterfall that was not only beautiful, but also functional. Thus, the elements had to be immovable, allowing bathers to climb, sit or bathe in the waterfall. The pool shed The client’s vision for their backyard also included a pool shed to not only house the mechanical equipment, but also provide ample space for a change room. In addition to this structure, a timber pergola, which extends the entire length of the shed, was also included. This feature added to the backyard’s overall appeal by providing a pleasant shaded area for poolside lounging. Strategically placed lighting features were set in the pergola as well as the shed to enable after-dark enjoyment. Phase two of the project was completed the following year, which included a bar/cabana, larger patio and fire pit, and additional landscaping, which helped tie in the different elements.

The best time for planning

The more time spent meeting with the client and putting thought into a design generally means the better the final plan and features. However, scheduling these meetings can be difficult simply due to the seasonality of the business. Therefore, the best time to schedule meetings and prepare plans is typically between the months of December and March (for moderate climates). If possible, clients should enlist services during this time and book installation for the following season.

A number of factors will determine how much time can be devoted to client meetings; therefore, it is important to instruct clients to bring their project ideas to the table so the completed landscape will speak directly to them.

For instance, the need for a comprehensive, well-thought out design is critical for yards with pools and/or spas, or those planning for them, as these features are large components in a landscape plan and cannot be altered at a later date. If the landscape plans call for an inground pool, the myriad of elements that can be incorporated to enhance its overall appeal must be considered. For example, including elements such as underwater lighting or natural rockery and boulders on its edges can help make the pool fit into its surroundings more holistically.

These features can also evoke memories of times spent at lakes and cottages, adding to the appeal of spending time in the backyard. Moving water (e.g. a spa, tiered waterfall, or water jets) are additional elements that can be incorporated to provide further interest and movement. If these features are to be included, they need to be roughed in by the contractor during installation of the pool, not afterwards.

Design satisfaction

Having a backyard’s components fit together to deliver a balanced, esthetically pleasing environment is key to long-term satisfaction. Making the outside elements of a house as much a representation of tastes on the inside makes a lot of sense, especially since the trends of ‘stay-cationing’ and ‘nesting’ continue to gain more popularity.

Being able to entertain friends and family in the backyard setting can add a lot to the enjoyment of a house, but also the resale value of the property. A well-planned layout uses space effectively and allows for easy transitioning between the elements within it. A backyard can become an oasis if designed and constructed correctly.

Big or small, rustic or modern, a property says a lot about its owners. It is a place where memories are made and dreams can be realized. By simply being a good listener, the groundwork for a mutually beneficial relationship and a special backyard retreat can be laid. If the completed project speaks directly to the client and captures their vision, the designer has succeeded.

Bill Thompson is the owner of Wood Water and Stone, a customized landscape design and construction firm in London, Ont. He is a graduate from the University of Western Ontario and subsequently studied horticultural science at the University of Guelph. Thompson has more than 15 years of experience in the landscaping industry, apprenticing as a designer for two other landscape companies before starting his own business. He can be reached via e-mail at woodwaterandstone@rogers.com.