Pool Oasis
Boston, MA
CHALLENGE
Developing the clients’ extensive outdoor program for their family of five on this lush sloping property with 40 feet of elevation change. The landscape program incorporates a swimming pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, pool house, lighting, planting and paved gathering spaces adjacent to the home for year-round enjoyment.
THE SITE
1.1 acres of rolling hillside, located in a stately Boston suburb with 40 feet of topography. The rear of the property sits a magnificent 40-plus foot above the street, presenting us with the thrilling challenge of balancing the topography while also creating usable level outdoor spaces.
We put a lot of care into considering the slope and alignment of the entrance drive and walkways to ensure a safe and welcoming passage into the home for the client, their family, and their visitors. In addition, the topography analysis included developing level usable spaces for the swimming pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, and open lawn for play.
The unique charm and character provided by the site’s topography served as a fantastic natural amenity, which we celebrated in the new design.
A thoughtfully designed drainage system with erosion control measures was vital to directing water away from the home and ensuring the site’s plant material was correctly established.
RESULTS
Working together with the client, the design solutions echo the architectural cues of the home, embracing clean lines, uniform finishes, and a formal, rectilinear layout.
Strategic placement of the three-season porch was key to maximizing the visual impact of the surrounding landscape within the main living areas of the home. In the interior kitchen and dining area, the view looks past the gathering terrace onto the lawn and landscape beyond. In turn, the seasonally covered pool takes a more subtle position in the colder months. Adjacent to the terrace is an open lawn space ideal for sports and entertaining.
Careful topography analysis was essential in leveling the terrain and harmonizing the new elements within the surrounding landscape and neighboring properties.
A big part of the conversation on this project—and any others with a pool—was determining the full pool experience that the client desired. Surrounded by chic black-and-white furnishings, vibrant plantings, and sleek granite decking, the rectangular pool offers an aquatic reprieve complete with an amenity-packed pool house. The pool house provides a ton of functionality and also elevates the overall experience of the pool area. It allowed the client to incorporate a poolside outdoor kitchen, shower, television, and storage.
Symbio worked closely with the client’s team, which included their interior designer, architect, and builder, to implement this project.
CONTRIBUTORS
Architect: Christopher Russ Architects
Interior Design: Melissa Gulley Interior Design
Pool and Spa: Environmental Pools
General Contractor: Pioneer Construction
Arborist: Arborway Tree Care
Landscape Maintenance: Zen Associates
Fence Company: New England Woodworkers