Backyard Design with A Big Splash
There are few things more relaxing and refreshing than spending summer around a pool. This backyard was designed to be beautiful and fun, with all the elements for backyard entertaining.
But don’t take our word for it.
Let’s let our client do the talking on this one!
QUESTION: Why did you choose The Barn?
“I was searching for a plant and the Barn’s website popped up. We were in the beginning phase of creating our outdoor space. I was really drawn to their homepage – they had a beautiful house with a swimming pool and outdoor oasis that they had designed as the back drop. I reached out to them and was put in touch with Dinka Petrova, one of their designers. I explained to Dinka what we were looking for and we scheduled a time to meet at our house. Two weeks later, I had an incredible design in hand and the project was ready to begin! ”
Pool Time
Honoring the architecture style of of the home, we developed a landscape design that would bring balanced composition to the site.
The first phase of landscape design began where the swimming pool sat on axis with the residence; making it the highlight of this backyard oasis.
A side paver walkway leads residents & guests to gather around an illuminated gas fire pit by the pool and covered outdoor kitchen.
Question: Tell us about the Landscape Design Process
“Dinka was so nice and pleasant to meet with and her design was right on point.
She developed an initial concept that incorporated everything we wanted – she even selected awesome plants, flowers and bushes that didn’t attract bees! We hadn’t even thought of that.
We had some questions, however, on how far we really wanted to take this project. We knew we wanted a gazebo, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, etc. but did we REALLY want a pool? At the time we were uncertain. Dinka did a great job at creating a space where the pool became an option, not a requirement.
She set up several phases of the project so that, when completed, we could stop after each one and the space would still look finished.
Year one was the elevated patio, gazebo, fire pit and kitchen.
Year two if we moved forward would be the pool. This was maybe a bit unconventional but she really made it work.
In the end, we wound up adding the pool. But it was nice that she gave us the flexibility not to put in a pool and still have a great looking backyard space if we went that direction.”
The Party Doesn’t End Here: The Story Behind the Gazebo & Outdoor Kitchen
The outdoor kitchen area was designed adjacent to the back entrance of the home, making it easily accessible, even during the winter. To differentiate the different areas, or “rooms”, of the outdoor space, we created a raised terrace, elevating the gazebo and kitchen.
It includes a grill, bar area and refrigerator. An outdoor TV and fan adds to the pleasant experience of the backyard. Located adjacent to the dining area and firepit, this cozy entertaining area is perfect for summertime cocktails.
An element of shade and protection is one the most important elements of a successful outdoor living space. Over the outdoor kitchen, a cedar gazebo was installed as a subtle shade element, with decorative overhead lighting and fan that adds evening ambiance and a daytime breeze.
Our client hoped to use this room as a reason that “the party doesn't need stop,” even in poor weather. More importantly this vantage point gave direct line of sight to everyone using the pool.
QUESTION: What challenges did you face?
“We had several challenges to overcome, most of them coming with the gazebo. The first challenge was placement. After MANY back and forth emails with Dinka (which she was always more than happy to do) we settled on a spot. Unfortunately, the village would not approve it! The Barn, however, worked their magic with the village to get it resolved.
In addition, the gazebo had to built in stages and the Barn was always excellent about coordinating efforts to ensure that everything went smoothly.
Another challenge came with the Unilock patio pavers. When the grout was added to the joints of the patio, it left a haze on the stone. We didn’t like that this haze had essentially changed the color from gray to more brown. The Barn resolved this by coordinating efforts with their Unilock rep and a rep from the grout company. After gathering info and coming up with a plan, they then cleaned, power washed and re-grouted the patio with a different product at no added cost to us to get us the look that we wanted.
And the best part is they did all this without making us feel like what we were asking for was just “our problem”. They really wanted us to be happy and went above and beyond to achieve that result.”
Fire Pit Fun
The sunken fire pit is placed in convenient location surrounded with a sitting wall for additional seating when needed. The gas hookup firepit is fast to start, easy to maintain, and will extend the backyard experience into the colder months. The black glass give a contemporary, clean look that fits the aesthetic of the overall design.
QUESTION: How do you feel about your landscaping?
“It’s amazing. We love the way the space looks, the. functionality, the traffic flow, really everything about it.
We spend so much more time outdoors now. We kept our pool open this year until November!
After two years, the space looks as good as it did after install. They created several levels of elevation with steps and one of our concerns with the complexity of install and design was longevity. Two years later and there has been zero settling, everything looks as it looked day one. It is a testament to The Barn’s professionalism and they can be trusted with the most difficult of landscaping projects.”
The Gardens & Planting Beds
This family loves being outside. However, replacing seasonal annuals or maintaining big beds is not a priority. Instead, groups of low maintenance perennials and shrubs were planted throughout the landscape that offer four season interest.
QUESTION: What would you tell someone considering working with The Barn?
“We couldn’t be happier with our experience with the Barn and Dinka.
We built our house in 2018 and we worked with many, many contractors during this process. I can honestly say that the Barn was our favorite. They actually listened to us without making us feel like we were the problem!
They were always fair, honest, did things on time with knowledge, skill and expertise. And they actually treated us the way customers should be treated, with open ears, respect and without the constant push back we were so accustomed to receiving from every other contractor we had worked with during the build. ”
Question: Any final thoughts or comments for someone considering hiring The Barn for a pool, patio or landscape project?
“Use them without hesitation. Dinka will create an amazing space and they will execute the design of your dreams.
Aside from the awesome outdoor oasis they create for you in the end, your project will be a great memory too because they are so enjoyable to work with. They truly care about the finished product they create, and are very receptive to how the customer is feeling throughout and it shows. Thank you guys! ”
We are proud to share this landscape design project was recognized as a finalist of The Unilock Awards of Excellence.
Your backyard is an extension of your home, why not equip it for year round use? By adding shade elements, thoughtful plantings and heat, fire, and water, you can make the investment in an outdoor living space pay off for your family every day of the year.
