Oftentimes when a yard is sloped or oddly shaped, it can be difficult to utilize. That was the case with this Loudon County backyard, which was sloped sharply in two different directions with more than six-feet in elevation changes.
Though the homeowners felt they’d found their forever home when moving here, they knew that they would need a creative and effective solution to make their yard functional. 
Of course, they weren’t looking for something cookie-cutter or ordinary. They were looking to create a truly spectacular backyard that would live up to the caliber and beauty of the rest of their home.
This included the desired luxury pool, that they knew might go beyond the scope and ability of a typical pool builder. They understood that in order to achieve the pool of their dreams, they would need to work with Loudoun County pool builders that could bring that vision to life in an imaginative but effective way.
When they approached Rock Water Farm with the task, we were prepared to think outside of the box and come up with a creative solution that would fulfill their dreams despite the extremely challenging grade issues.
The Focal Point: The Pool
There was no question that the homeowners wanted the focal point and primary purpose of their backyard to be focused on a pool. Of course, they didn’t want just any old pool but were looking for one that would be resort-like in nature.
Upon beginning the pool design process with us, the homeowners had pictures from places that they’d been on vacation, as well as from magazines, and had some existing ideas of what they were looking for.
After several revisions to the exact layout, we came up with a pool design using a 3D rendering that the homeowners knew would be the ideal fit. With the use of 3D Pool & Landscape Design, they were able to see exactly what their pool area would look like before agreeing to move forward with the process.
Among a number of exciting features, a highlight of the pool design is an infinity edge, built into the corner of the pool, which allowed us to work with the slope of the property.
This was also the side of the yard where there was a spectacular view, making the infinity edge ideally situated. This would allow the homeowners to gather in that area, and enjoy the view over the edge. The pool is a “party pool,” meaning the water goes from shallow to deep (in the middle) to shallow.
The pool also features a raised spa with a small waterfall that flows into the main pool. The spa and the pool feature upgraded plaster finish that really sparkles, particularly with the use of gorgeous glass tile.
This pool is a great example of how big of a difference upgraded materials can make in the overall look of the finished project. These homeowners were going for luxury and the materials made a huge difference in achieving their goals.
Another interesting feature of the pool is the fact that it features powerful swim jets, allowing the homeowner to swim in place. He is a marathoner and wanted a place where he could swim long distances to train and keep his body in shape. In the winter, his plan was to wear his wetsuit and swim.
The pump that runs the pool has five times the horsepower of a typical pool, kicking power from three different jets so it powerfully moves the water. You could even put a kayak in this pool and swim against the current.
Two Spectacular Patios
Having created such a “showstopper” of a pool, it was important that the space surrounding the pool was just as spectacular. After all, it would have looked out-of-place to have a tiny patio when the pool was large and impressive.
That meant creating a large surrounding pool patio with high-quality materials that would stand up to the caliber of the pool itself. We utilized gorgeous 24-inch travertine, a natural stone that makes an ideal choice for pool patios. The travertine is laid out in a precisely organized diamond pattern which is not an easy feat but can be achieved with the care and skill of a highly trained landscape professional with an eye for design.
The main patio also features a large outdoor fireplace. Again, in keeping with the idea that we had to “scale” this area, it did not make sense to build a small fireplace when the pool and patio were so large and impressive. It’s always so important to proportionally scale projects, though many landscape design “pros” overlook this. Oftentimes you see a large pool and a tiny patio and it just doesn’t look right.
The fireplace was built from natural stone and is a custom piece of art with a very personal feature. The family had brought back an antique they had purchased in France, which we actually built into the fireplace itself (just above the firebox), to give it a one-of-a-kind look. Again, knowing that the homeowners had found their forever home, this project was all about personalization and making the space truly their own. The fireplace area is a cozy spot for gathering when the homeowners have company visiting.
The main patio also features a retaining wall which addresses the grading challenges that the property presented.
In addition, we also created a lower level patio area where the homeowners (or their guests) could sit and enjoy the waterfall that was created by the pool’s infinity edge. This is another more intimate and quiet space, but separate from the main patio. The homeowners appreciate being able to enjoy the look and the sound of the running water in this special spot.
Additional Touches
With a project as special as this, it was important that all of the finishing touches also came together to complete the space. This included some surrounding landscaping.
Landscape Plantings
The landscaping currently features some small trees and shrubs, including a number of hydrangeas. There will likely be additional landscaping performed as the area matures, including some more plant material likely added in the future.
The property’s landscaping also includes gorgeous trellis with wisteria growing on it for some added appeal. The verticality of the trellis complements the vertical fireplace, giving the entire space a nice balanced look.
Landscape Lighting
Since the homeowners also wanted to be able to use their space (and entertain) in the evening hours, landscape lighting was also an essential element of the finished project. The retaining wall features plenty of built-in lighting.
Uplighting around the trellis area creates a unique visual look in the evening hours. There is also lighting on the steps that lead down to the lower patio. Of course, the pool itself is also gorgeously lit, creating a whole new “look” to the outdoor living area once the sun goes down.
Drainage Solutions
It’s also important to mention that there is a lot of hidden drainage work in this project which was absolutely essential due to the significant grading challenges. The last thing that these homeowners wanted was water rushing over or pooling on their brand-new, beautiful stone patio. We spent a lot of time and care ensuring that any possible drainage issues were fully addressed so that there would be no negative impact on the finished project.
Choosing Leesburg, VA Pool Builders
While there is no shortage of Loudoun County pool builders to choose from, these homeowners knew that in order to get the outdoor living area they’d been dreaming of, they needed to hire the best.
This was not only a very involved project (with many complex challenges that had to be solved), but it also required a true eye for design in order to live up to the homeowners’ high expectations in creating a resort-like pool and surrounding area.
But even for a smaller scale project, it’s important to recognize that the landscaping or pool builder that you choose can make or break the finished project that you end up with. When you’re investing in an outdoor space, you want to be beyond pleased with the results.
That’s why making the right choice in pool builders will make all of the difference. For these Loudon County homeowners, being able to enjoy their new backyard to the fullest, with all possible problems addressed and solved, was worth the investment.
Are you ready to find an expert who will bring your ideas for your Ashburn, Aldie, or Leesburg, VA home to life? If so, talk to an expert, choose a solution that rocks, and get ready to see those dreams become a reality.
