Project description:
A changed in the flood-plain location sparked a desire to reconstruction this creek-side property in Dallas, Texas. We explored it, and, through a lengthy process, were able to relocate the 100-year flood plain approximately 20 feet further out from the residence. This allowed us to completely transform this space! No longer was the backyard area so constrained. The living room was slightly enlarged, an expansive screened-in porch was added, the old pool was demolished and replaced with a new design and layout, and the modification to the flood-plain allowed all this to happen.
FRONT ENTRY
The front entry re-design was very simple and did not involved a lot of layout changes. We did, however, want the change to be noticeable and appreciated. For the central raised planter, we designed it with reclaimed brick and limestone so it would take on a similar look to the pool spa and fire-pit. The paving is hand-cut and hand-tumbled limestone. Guests are greeted at the curb with a graceful Natchez Crepe Myrtles.
POOL AND SPA
The pool and spa design was all about taking advantage of the space and using natural, re-claimed materials. The pool sits tightly between the back of the house and the rear retaining wall - which sits directly on the flood-plain line. The spa centers on both the center-line of the backdoor and the centerline of the screened cabana. The finishes include reclaimed brick from the home, custom copper spillway, limestone pool coping, brass water-jets, and tile and plasters colors to resemble the color of patinated copper.
ARBOR AND FIRE PIT
Believe it or not, this area was not an original part of the design. We were all so excited about the screened cabana and pool and did not intend to use this space. As construction started, we all realized the importance this space would serve and designed a great space to hang out in. The arbor is made of cast-in-place molded concrete columns which support 12x12 cedar beams with notched jointery. The firepit is reclaimed brick and designed to match the pool spa and front planter. Lush vegetation surrounds the space and includes Aspidistra, fern, boxwood, aralia, and wisteria.
OTHER DETAILS
There are many details through this project that can go un-noticed. These are just a few of the things that make up the unique-ness of this garden.