When Roger reached out to me for help designing his backyard, he had already placed complete trust in my vision. Referred by a previous client, he asked me to design the space as though it were my own home. From the outset, I knew that this project had to reflect not only his personal tastes but also his long-term desire for a space that would be beautiful, functional, and built to last.

A Vision for Lasting Beauty

During our initial consultation, Roger made one thing clear: this home was a place they planned to live in for many years. He wanted every element of the backyard to be durable, timeless, and free from future maintenance issues. The vision included a curving pool, a pavilion, and a stunning fireplace, all elements that would come together to create a space for relaxation, entertainment, and family memories.

With these key components in mind, we set out to deliver a backyard that would exceed expectations.

Crafting a Timeless, Functional Space

When the project was completed, it was clear that we had achieved something special. Roger’s father-in-law, a traditional old-school Italian, took his time inspecting every detail of the backyard—spending an impressive two hours going over each aspect. As he took it all in, he uttered an expression in Italian that summed up his feelings: “Speechless.” The project had not only met, but exceeded, everyone’s expectations. It was clear that we had created something truly exceptional, a space that was not only beautiful but also a place where memories would be made for years to come.

In fact, Roger has used the pool every single day since we installed it, proving that the space is more than just a design—it’s a living part of their home and lifestyle.

A Pool Built for Comfort and Fun

The pool is the heart of the backyard, and we made sure it was designed with both beauty and function in mind. We added a sun ledge that is padded for comfort—perfect for lounging and soaking in the sun. The ledge is large enough to accommodate two lounge chairs, so Roger and his family can fully relax in the water.

Another standout feature is the water feature. Not only is it visually stunning, but it also serves as a jumping point for those ready to cannonball into the shallow end. The soothing sound of the water feature also provides a sense of tranquility, masking the ambient noise from the surrounding area and helping maintain privacy during conversations in the backyard.

Audio That Transforms the Experience

Sound played an important role in creating a fully immersive outdoor experience. We installed a Sono sound system with Dolby Atmos surround sound in the TV area, providing crystal-clear audio for movie nights and entertainment. Throughout the rest of the backyard, we implemented a true audio directional sound system. This unique setup ensures that the sound stays contained within the yard—neighbors won’t hear it, but guests will experience it in full. The system adds a whole new dimension to the space, elevating the atmosphere and enhancing every moment.

Craftsmanship at Its Finest: The Pavilion

One of the most impressive features of the backyard is the pavilion, crafted from Douglas Fir. This high-end installation is a true work of art, featuring custom mortise and tenon joinery with oak plugs. The craftsmanship is outstanding, designed to withstand the test of time. With proper care, this pavilion is built to last for over 50 years, offering both beauty and functionality for generations to come. The roof is topped with durable asphalt shingles, further ensuring its long-lasting quality.

Durable and Beautiful Hardscaping

The pool terrace is made from Unilock Beacon Hill pavers—a stunning choice that enhances the elegance of the space. These pavers are set on a permeable concrete foundation, eliminating any instability in the subsurface. This attention to detail ensures that the interlock won’t shift or move for the next 25+ years. Additionally, we sealed the pavers to protect them from staining and to stabilize the jointing sand, extending its life from the usual five years to seven years.

To create a striking visual contrast, we highlighted the perimeter of the patio with Unilock Copthorn pavers in a deep basalt color. This design element adds an extra layer of sophistication, giving the backyard a polished, well-thought-out aesthetic.

Lighting That Creates a Resort-Style Ambiance

The night lighting in the backyard is nothing short of magical. We strategically placed lights to create a resort-like feel during summer evenings and to illuminate the space during the winter months. There’s something truly special about seeing the lights sparkle against the falling snow during the Christmas season, giving the space a beautiful, almost ethereal quality.

Innovative Drainage for Long-Term Durability

One of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of this project is the drainage system. Running along the perimeter of the backyard is a French drain system that is between 2 to 5 feet deep. This system helps control water flow, ensuring that the neighbors won’t experience excessive runoff, and most importantly, that the backyard will never flood.

The drainage system is connected to a soakaway pit, which allows water to drain into the groundwater system. Positioned below the frost line, this system works year-round and guarantees that the backyard remains dry and functional through all seasons. With the increasing frequency of storms and unpredictable weather patterns, having a solid drainage system is crucial for long-term durability. It ensures that the landscape requires minimal maintenance while staying beautiful and functional for years to come.

Creating a Backyard That Lasts a Lifetime

The design and construction of this backyard were driven by the goal of creating a space that would not only impress but also stand the test of time. With high-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and a focus on durability, this backyard at 14 Antoinette CRT, Hamilton, is a true testament to the power of thoughtful design. Every element—from the pool to the pavilion, to the lighting and drainage system—was carefully considered to create an environment that will bring joy to Roger and his family for many years to come.

This is the type of space where memories are made, and the results speak for themselves. Every guest who steps into the backyard is greeted with awe, and Roger couldn’t be happier with his decision to trust us with his vision. We delivered on our promise, and the end result is a backyard that will last, impress, and provide a sense of peace for years to come.