A "Personal Country Club"
in Westport, Connecticut
Several years after I designed the swimming pool environment, I received a call from the client. They had purchased the adjoining property and wanted to begin building their dream. The client’s dream was to have a tennis court, entertaining spaces, and a large open lawn for activities. After walking the property and discussing the client’s objectives, I began working with the surveyor and site engineer to explore the possibilities.
Given the size restrictions with building/wetland setbacks and the existing septic system, the tennis court's available space was determined. Working closely with the engineer, we designed the topography, relocated the septic leaching fields and a new drainage retention system.
Managing the entire design process, house demolition, combining the properties, permitting the tennis court, and coordinating the construction process of all phases of the project lead us to the final realization of this family's dreams.
The complete family
entertaining space in
Westport, CT.
With a completely open, sloping property to work with, this family wished to have the ultimate entertaining space to enjoy year-round. In the initial consultation, we discussed all the possibilities, including an indoor pool.
As we developed the concepts and cost outlines, the possibilities became clear. Beginning with the engineering of a completely new septic system & stormwater retention system and continuing with the Landscape Architect. The site plans were developed to include a Master Plan that met the clients' wishes and budget.
Plans included a magnificent large outdoor kitchen area complete with a center island. Working with the architect to develop the detailed construction drawings, the appliance design and layout was solidified. The previous wood deck was redesigned into a masonry balcony. The land surrounding the residence's foundation was carved away to create a walk-out basement with the balcony as a porch for shade from the hot summer sun. The integrated spa sits adjacent to the main terrace and is the focal point of the family's entertainment.
A Private Personal
Retreat .... Your Home
To develop a personal retreat on your property, you must have a skilled and knowledgeable expert to work with. One who understands the possibilities your property holds and how to achieve the best solutions to fit your needs. This project is an example of what is possible through proper planning and executing your dreams.
Beginning with a large open rolling lawn area, this pool environment was designed to meet large scale entertaining demands. I began developing the design by carefully listening to my client’s needs and wishes by walking the property. I also coordinated the septic system relocation, consulted with a landscape architect to perfect the plan, obtained permits, and managed the entire construction process.
The swimming pool's location was based on the home's design and the needs of a large family seeking to leave the large flat lawn space for playing sports. In working with the land slope, we created a separate area for pool activities and visual interest. The landscape also supports a regulation size golf green to complete the outdoor activities, complete with sand traps, tee boxes, and retractable practice driving net.
A Relaxed and Natural
Swimming Pool on
an Estate
Please design a pool for us that looks as if it was on the property for many years." That was my clients' request when I was asked to develop the plans for a swimming pool environment for a large estate in Stamford, CT. They had just purchased this property and had to leave behind a wonderful swimming pool and spa I had designed several years before.
They wanted the pool to be accessible from the main house but not in direct view. Setbacks and the topography of the site were restrictions that I had to workaround. Finally, after walking the site and studying the survey, I settled on a corner of the property bordered by a grove of mature trees and native woodland plants. Today the swimming pool is the focus of summer activities and relaxation for the family. Swimming lessons for the children and relaxing evenings in the spa for the adults make this a wonderful addition to their lives.