A Neptune Pools Original design Infinity pool and spa fully tiled with Glass Mosaic tiles Photography by Patrick Redmond

Endless pool in a home spa infused with a relaxing setting of art, music and picturesque views of the Chattahoochee River. Photography by John Umberger

A family in West University contacted us to design a contemporary Houston landscape for them. They live on a double lot, which is large for that neighborhood. They had built a custom home on the property, and they wanted a unique indoor-outdoor living experience that integrated a modern pool into the aesthetic of their home interior. This was made possible by the design of the home itself. The living room can be fully opened to the yard by sliding glass doors. The pool we built is actually a lap swimming pool that measures a full 65 feet in length. Not only is this pool unique in size and design, but it is also unique in how it ties into the home. The patio literally connects the living room to the edge of the water. There is no coping, so you can literally walk across the patio into the water and start your swim in the heated, lighted interior of the pool. Even for guests who do not swim, the proximity of the water to the living room makes the entire pool-patio layout part of the exterior design. This is a common theme in modern pool design. The patio is also notable because it is constructed from stones that fit so tightly together the joints seem to disappear. Although the linear edges of the stones are faintly visible, the surface is one contiguous whole whose linear seamlessness supports both the linearity of the home and the lengthwise expanse of the pool. While the patio design is strictly linear to tie the form of the home to that of the pool, our modern pool is decorated with a running bond pattern of tile work. Running bond is a design pattern that uses staggered stone, brick, or tile layouts to create something of a linear puzzle board effect that captures the eye. We created this pattern to compliment the brick work of the home exterior wall, thus aesthetically tying fine details of the pool to home architecture. At the opposite end of the pool, we built a fountain into the side of the home's perimeter wall. The fountain head is actually square, mirroring the bricks in the wall. Unlike a typical fountain, the water here pours out in a horizontal plane which even more reinforces the theme of the quadrilateral geometry and linear movement of the modern pool. We decorated the front of the home with a custom garden consisting of small ground cover plant species. We had to be very cautious around the trees due to West U’s strict tree preservation policies. In order to avoid damaging tree roots, we had to avoid digging too deep into the earth. The species used in this garden—Japanese Ardesia, foxtail ferns, and dwarf mondo not only avoid disturbing tree roots, but they are low-growth by nature and highly shade resistant. We also built a gravel driveway that provides natural water drainage and preserves the root zone for trees. Concrete pads cross the driveway to give the homeowners a sure-footing for walking to and from their vehicles.

The clean and simple lines on this design were a far reach from the overgrown and confusing layout of the previous owners. The existing pool was removed and a saltwater pool and spa were installed. The pavers and pool coping were custom colored concrete made off of a Travertine mold. The cable rail system allowed unobstructed visibility throughout the backyard connecting upper and lower levels together. Jason Wallace Photography

Michael Lee

The backyard is the focal point of the house, with Fleetwood pocket doors lining surrounding the kitchen, formal living room, and master bedroom.

Burdge Architects- Traditional Cape Cod Style Home. Located in Malibu, CA. Pool and Pool house. Guest house on level above.

Our client requested Land & Water Design to design a unique backyard, utilizing every bit of open area. Within the requests were a 12'x22' swimming pool with swim jet system to accommodate the competitive swimmers in their family. The items on their "wish list" were enough hardscape areas to accommodate at least 20 guests, a beautiful low maintenance landscape, custom storage area, outdoor lighting, water jets, retaining wall, seat walls and finally a small area for outdoor grilling. Photo Credit: Jim Folliard

Welcome to this exclusive high-end luxury backyard oasis in San Diego, a captivating retreat designed for ultimate relaxation and entertainment. Central to this enchanting space is a magnificent resort-style pool, inviting you to revel in moments of serenity and joy. Embraced by beautifully landscaped greenery, this sanctuary exudes privacy and tranquility, allowing you to escape the outside world. The custom-built cabana offers the epitome of comfort, providing plush seating and shaded elegance. Whether unwinding with family and friends or savoring a refreshing drink, it's the perfect spot to bask in the natural beauty. As the sun sets, the backyard transforms into an enchanting wonderland with soft, romantic ambient lighting, adding a touch of magic to your outdoor gatherings and celebrations. Beyond its allure, an outdoor kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances promises to elevate your culinary experiences. Host al fresco dinners and barbecues, creating unforgettable memories against the backdrop of luxurious living.

TEAM Architect: LDa Architecture & Interiors Interior Design: LDa Architecture & Interiors Builder: Stefco Builders Landscape Architect: Hilarie Holdsworth Design Photographer: Greg Premru

Looking at the home from one of the lounging decks, outdoor living does not end when the sun goes down. A beautiful infinity and all-tile pool and sunken fire pit as well as multiple raised lounge areas allow for enjoyment throughout for all ages. Photography by Jimi Smith

Architextures is the latest large format, a contemporary retaining wall from Barkman. It's built to handle the most demanding landscaping challenges and designed to fit seamlessly in the most modern of spaces. Photo: Barkman Concrete Ltd.