Unveiling Sutherland: An Exceptional Outdoor Living Project
Family-Friendly Backyard Bliss: Balancing Elegance and Enjoyment
When we undertake a project, our mission is to craft an outdoor space that seamlessly blends functionality with captivating aesthetics. Our latest venture, Sutherland, exemplifies our commitment to turning traditional yards into stunning retreats. The family of four wanted a space that balanced an elegant aesthetic with plenty of fun and entertainment for the children. Let’s jump in and take a tour of the space!
Challenges Transformed into Possibilities
The journey began with a unique set of challenges. We were initially contacted to bid on the construction for an existing design. After meeting the homeowners and seeing their property, we knew we could do more. The existing design was for a standard rectangular pool that fit the space but lacked imagination and didn’t have a wow factor. The spatial constraints of a narrow backyard, along with the presence of overhead power lines, presented an intricate puzzle. Our objective? To design an elegant and visually dynamic space for the adults, while ensuring that it embraced fun and safety for children.
A Water Wonderland: The Custom Gunite Pool and Spa
At the heart of this project lies a meticulously crafted custom gunite pool and a raised spa. Separated gracefully by floating steppers, this design not only adds to the visual appeal but also allows both bodies of water to share the same plumbing and equipment, saving cost and ensuring an efficient and harmonious operation. The spa, designed as equal parts sculptural water feature and functional hot tub, acts as a centerpiece. Like all of our builds, Sutherland is in Southeast Michigan, where keeping an inground pool open year-round would cost a small fortune. While the pool and spa share a plumbing and filtration system, they are designed so that the pool can be drained and closed for the winter while the spa remains open year-round.
Relaxation and Play: The Pool's Allure
Stepping into the pool reveals its versatile nature. A spacious sun shelf invites you to relax, while strategically positioned bubblers add an element of playfulness to the water. Stepping off the sun shelf, the pool depth gradually increases from 3.5 feet to 6. Little ones can safely splash and play in the shallower areas, while older children and adults can enjoy everything from swimming laps to water aerobics, jumping, and pool games in the deeper sections. To ensure safety and preserve the pool's pristine charm, an automatic pool cover easily extends and retracts at the flip of a switch.
Culinary Convenience: The Outdoor Kitchen
A few steps from the backdoor is the outdoor kitchen, offering a culinary haven for al fresco dining. With a built-in grill, refrigeration, disposal, and ample storage, it stands ready to elevate your outdoor cooking experiences. The kitchen is built over a natural bluestone patio with additional areas designated for outdoor dining and a fireside lounge.
Green Space Harmony: The Landscape
Amidst the carefully planned hardscaping, we've preserved generous green spaces. Each segment of the bluestone patio has a designated purpose, be it kitchen, dining, or lounge areas. Running between each portion, grass turf softens the transition from hardscape to landscape and creates play space for the children. This deliberate balance increases permeability and is more eco-friendly than a traditional pool patio.
For All Ages: Sunken Trampoline
We made the most of every inch of space by incorporating a sunken trampoline. The sunken design maintains the fluidity of the space while preserving its elegant aesthetic, avoiding any interruptions from a conventionally raised trampoline. This thoughtful addition provides endless opportunities for both fitness and fun, catering to guests of all ages.
A Gathering Spot: Covered Porch and Fireplace
For moments of reflection or gatherings with loved ones, the covered porch with an outdoor fireplace offers warmth and ambiance. It's the perfect setting to unwind, sip a glass of wine, or simply bask in the glow of the flames.
Privacy and Beauty: Lush Landscaping
Enhancing both privacy and beauty, the landscaping includes the strategic placement of pear trees and low hedges of Annabelle hydrangea. As the sun sets, carefully positioned landscape lighting illuminate the trees and surrounding beauty, transforming the outdoor space into a serene and enchanting retreat.
The Product
PATIO PAVERS: Natural Bluestone Pavers
POOL COPING & STEPPING STONE PAVERS: Limestone
POOL & SPA TILE: AquaBlu Mosaics, Nature Pearl 1 x 2 River Brick
POOL PEBBLE : Wet Edge Technologies, Crystal Blue
Location
Plymouth, Michigan
Build Time
4 months
Project Size
2,500 sqft
Your Personal Oasis Awaits
Our dedication to design excellence and functionality is evident in every detail of our builds. If this inspires you to transform your own backyard into a sanctuary, we encourage you to contact us. Together, we can make your outdoor living dreams a reality.