A Backyard Swimming Pool Oasis
LOCATION
Portola Valley, CA
DESIGN STYLE + PARAMETERS
Drought Tolerant Mediterranean
DESIGNED AREA
20,000 sq. ft.
Inspiration + Goal
This landscape design project aimed to address several problems that needed to be solved. The old pool had become an eyesore, with falling apart concrete and a dated look. The planting areas had become sparse and unkempt due to many years of poor maintenance. Additionally, there were large barren spaces in the garden that needed to be filled in. Lastly, the property featured large redwood trees that were overwhelming the space, casting too much shade, and overwhelming the garden.
The main goals of this project were to:
Revitalize the old pool and give it a modern and updated look
Repair and replace the damaged concrete
Address the issues with the planting areas and fill in the barren spaces with new plants and flowers
Use a plant palette that is suitable for the area and is able to thrive under the shade of the redwood trees
Create a garden design that is visually pleasing and functional for the property owners to enjoy.
Create an area for outdoor living and entertainment
A detailed 3D rendering of a garden design featuring calming stone pathways, vibrant lavender plants, and a wooden chair for relaxation. A perfect vision of a dream garden before installation.
The journey begins here. Wide, grand steppingstones guide you effortlessly from the parking area to the main door, creating a welcoming first impression. Thoughtfully integrated into the landscape, this elegant pathway connects function with beauty, setting the tone for the serene retreat that unfolds ahead.
Modern Mediterranean-inspired drought tollerant Frontyard in Portola Valley, CA
As you ascend the timber and gravel garden steps, seamlessly integrated into the hillside, you’re guided through a natural flow of drought-tolerant plants and lush textures. These steps lead you to the thoughtfully designed ADU, blending functionality and sustainability with the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
An inspiring 3D garden design rendering highlighting a modern gray house and a variety of lush plants, including lavender blooms. Visualizing the perfect garden before installation.
Continuing the journey through this tranquil front yard, the inviting white bench offers a quiet retreat amidst pollinator-friendly plants and natural stone accents. It’s a serene moment in the flow of a garden designed to reconnect you with nature at every step.
Sleek stepping stones guide you from the driveway to the entrance, surrounded by low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants, creating a clean, sustainable, and welcoming first impression.
Concrete Steppingstone
Modern Mediterranean-inspired poolside dining area featuring rattan outdoor furniture, a stylish dining table, and MSI porcelain pavers, combining elegance and functionality for outdoor living.
Modern poolside patio featuring premium MSI porcelain pavers, paired with stylish lounge seating and surrounded by a lush, drought-tolerant garden.
The Outcome
This backyard design refresh aimed to breathe new life into a 15-year-old swimming pool. The centerpiece of the renovation was the replacement of the old pavers with sleek and modern porcelain pavers, giving the pool area a fresh and updated look. To add a touch of elegance and tranquility, a wall fountain was added to the design.
The outdoor living space was also enhanced by the addition of an outdoor pizza oven and cooking area, perfect for entertaining and enjoying meals al fresco. A pergola was added to provide shade and create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
To maintain the existing garden's character, most of the existing plants were kept and complemented by the addition of plants that thrive in the Portola Valley area. The chosen plant palette included shades of purple, lime, and blue, adding a pop of color and creating a harmonious and visually pleasing garden.
