The shorter monoliths are meant to look as if the taller ones had fallen on their sides. Where the taller waterfeatures conceal views of a neighboring home, these were meant to preserve the view of the pasture and trees in back.
The outer vertical surfaces of the vanishing edge (behind the chaise lounges) and around the spa are finished in a white limestone. Naugle sorted through approximately 10 palettes of the material to find consistently white pieces. The final effect looks almost cast in place.
The substantial shallow lounge measures approximately 28 by 10 feet, with the water 6 inches deep. Bathers can enjoy the sound of the vanishing edge spilling behind them.
The lighting blends with the sleek materials to evoke subtle drama. Inside the spa, floor outlets are concealed in the toe-kick detail underneath the bench.
Glass mosaic tiles in aquas, blues and greens cover the perimeter-overflow surfaces underneath the monoliths and around the spa.
Three underwater-swings-as-barstools hold two people each. These satisfied the energetic homeowner, who doesn’t like to sit still. Because of the water’s resistance, the swings can’t move very quickly, preventing safety hazards. "They actually stop swinging forward right at the counter so they won’t smash into the counter," Naugle says.
In the covered kitchen/dining complex, Spanish colonial styling (intricately patterned ceramic tile and an old wood stove) combine with contemporary materials to relate with the home’s interior.
Many backyard kitchens fall short when it comes to counter space. That’s not a problem here: The sunken spa includes 47 feet of countertop, while the kitchen has 37 feet. The placement of the kitchen/bar complex leaves a more secluded lap lane to the side.
