It’s hard not to appreciate the craftsmanship that went into this project. With no landscaping, the pool carries the weight of the entire backyard on its back, and that’s no easy task. From the elevated patio to the oversized shallow lounge area, it is evident that the designer paid careful attention to every detail, large and small, to meet the client’s request, while still producing a one-of-a-kind pool that can stand on its own.
Crisp and Clean
Landscaping is a staple of Brandon Miller’s design. So when a client asked him to create a space without a single bush or tree, it was a hard idea for him to swallow. The homeowner only wanted some sod, a patio, small rock perimeter and an aluminum fence. “She was adamant that there was going to be no landscaping,” recalls Miller.
The good news: The absence of flora allowed him to show off the clean lines and craftsmanship often camouflaged by the competing landscaping. “It opened our eyes a little bit to the idea that sometimes less is more,” he says. Of course, doing so created concerns about privacy. The property spans several acres, but neighboring homes sit on different elevations. Since he couldn’t use trees for screening, Miller designed a large raised patio with a tall fireplace.
Minimalism also dictated material selections. Travertine plays the primary role. In addition to forming pavers, it caps the wings and roof of the fireplace. From the raised patio, a rustic split-face stacked stone wall continues into the water.
The fireplace is finished with the same stucco found on the home’s facade. A lighted sheet waterfall and multiple LED lights offer ambiance at dusk, while Miller’s signature shallow lounge area provides a unique concrete addition. Sized to match the proportions of the steps across, the ledge can fit up to six and includes built-in umbrella stands and fountains for convenience and effect. An attached covered patio provides shade and gathering place for eating.
What the Judges Thought
It’s hard not to appreciate the craftsmanship that went into this project. With no landscaping, the pool carries the weight of the entire backyard on its back, and that’s no easy task. From the elevated patio to the oversized shallow lounge area, it is evident that the designer paid careful attention to every detail, large and small, to meet the client’s request, while still producing a one-of-a-kind pool that can stand on its own.
