Photo by Seabold Studio

Pavilion with fireplace, Pizza oven and outdoor Kitchen.

Even inside city limits, the Designs by Robin team maximized yard space by designing custom pool layout. Additional accessorizing helped create a fun backyard that fits into the culture of downtown Lafayette.

Request Free Quote This Swimming Pool and Hot Tub in Burr Ridge IL measures 20'0" x 40'0", and the spa which is inside the pool measures 7'0" x 8'0". Both bodies of water are covered by an automatic pool safety cover. The sunshelf measures 5'0" x 11'0" and has connected steps for entry and exit. The coping is Valders Wisconsin limestone as well as the decking. The pool interior is French Gray. Photos by Larry Huene

Originally designed by one of the most notable landscape architects in town, this once impressive project had faltered in recent years. The pool and spa still functioned well, and the client wanted to keep it intact. In addition, they wanted to keep as much of the existing landscaping as possible. The surrounding decks, walls, and steps were fair game. At first glance, one might think that our changes were simple material changes. Upon closer inspection, however, one can see the subtle, yet transformative changes that come together to update this classic pool in a tasteful, timeless manner, and improve the flow and usability of the deck areas, while softening the feel of the massive hardscape. The subtle changes begin as soon as you walk out the back door of the house. The existing decking had a lot of what we call “tweeners”; areas that are overly generous walkways, yet not large enough to house furniture. The awkwardly small bluestone patio was expanded to accommodate a generous seating area, by pushing the step-down closer to the pool. Our talented stone mason carefully married the new bluestone into the existing, resulting in an imperceptible difference between the two. As you descend the new bluestone steps to the pool level, your bare feet will be thankful for the new smooth-finished limestone colored concrete, with a hand cut pattern carefully etched into its surface. The old red brick decking was so hot that the owners could not walk around the pool in bare feet. The brick coping was also replaced with an eased edge Pennsylvania Premier Stone which matches the new step treads throughout the project. Between the house and the pool, a large raised planter was reconfigured, giving additional space to the pool deck for a shaded lounge chair area. Across the pool, a bank of rather tall painted brick retaining walls were cut down, shortened, and moved. This lessened the visual impact of the walls, which were rather overwhelming in the space, as well as opening up a new seating area, nestled under the arms of the massive pecan at the back of the property. Rather than continuing solid decking around the entire pool, the area near these walls has been transformed to large stone stepper pads set in a sea of beautiful St. Augustine lawn. This creates a visually softened area that is still suited to setting tables and chairs when the guest list calls for additional seating. The spa area is quite possibly the most dramatic change on this project. Yet more raised planter walls divided this area into awkward spaces, unsuited to proper furniture placement. The planters were removed, new stone decks, once again expertly married into the existing, opening the area to house a large dining table and new built in bbq area. The spa itself was re-imagined with the bluestone coping, and painted brick veneer. The most impressive addition though is the new handmade glazed tiles that surround the existing cast stone water feature. This water feature was almost unnoticeable against the painted brick wall, but now the dramatic arch and pop of color draw the eye to this quaint little corner of the property.

This pool is proof that even in small spaces a magnificent backyard can be created. The design uses the space well and gives so many dedicated spaces and yet is so easy to entertain in. Photography by Vernon Wentz of Ad Imagery.

Sundance® Spas embody everything that you can dream of in a hot tub. Their latest innovation is the 980™ Series Kingston shown in this cover photo. This modern yet elegant hot tub has stylish side panels, advanced hydrotherapy massage and LED lights that will help you create your dream backyard.

A traditional house that meanders around courtyards built as though it where built in stages over time. Well proportioned and timeless. Presenting its modest humble face this large home is filled with surprises as it demands that you take your time to experiance it.

Photo by Scott Pease

Request Free Quote This inground hot tub in Winnetka, IL measures 8'0" square, and is flush with the decking. Featuring an automatic pool cover with hidden stone safety lid, bluestone coping and decking, and multi-colored LED lighting, this hot tub is the perfect complement to the lovely outoor living space. Photos by Larry Huene.

Robert Shaw photographer

Details make the difference in our pools- this concrete plunge pool s interior is finished with a subtle grey Daltile for an earthy look that blends with its natural surroundings. This photograph was taken just after installation and plantings. As the plants matured, the effect became even nicer!