PROJECT SUMMARY: Residential Landscaping Gaithersburg and Laytonsville, MD
In the middle of Gaithersburg, Maryland lies a hidden oasis- an invitation to escape and relax. This project is a perfect balance between design and nature. During the initial consultation, the client let it be known that he wanted a waterfall oasis-not a swimming pool. Building upon the oasis theme, the plan was to create a space that drew you in and kept you there. Tall Cryptomeria evergreens shielded views to adjoining properties. Large scale Crape Myrtles softened the view to the back of the home. Sweeps of grasses and perennials add seasonal color and interest to hold your attention once you pass through the gate. A Specimen Full Moon Maple is the main focal point of the waterfall. A custom-milled curved arbor adds architectural interest and definition to the patio area. The pool was designed to feel nestled into the landscape; having plantings come up to the edge of the coping accomplished this goal. The pool filter and electrical panel were hidden within the landscape. Overall, the serenity of the space is exactly what the client had envisioned.
Project Challenges
This design was truly a product of our need to make the client’s dream come true. Our client always imagined a pond like pool with waterfalls that could be viewed from the house. The client did not consider how the 8’ change in grade dropped away from the house and posed a challenge to constructing the water feature. So, the initial plan located the waterfalls more appropriately in the sloping hill facing out into the yard. Although he understood the reasoning, the client found this unacceptable and was willing to increase the budget to achieve his desired look. The water feature needed to be built on 4.5’ feet of fill and would require 8’ deep caisson footing supports with steel reinforcement throughout the structure.
The deck stairs and exits off of the house did not relate to the proposed pool area. Not wanting to re-do the entire deck, the deck stairs were modified to work with the design.
Additionally, three existing trees all over 8” in caliper would need to be relocated prior to excavation. With the spring season quickly approaching, a 90” tree spade was mobilized to relocate the trees within the project area. This preserved the trees and helped develop that oasis feel to the site.
The list of amenities for the pool included everything from three cascading waterfalls, a beach shelf for lounging in the pool, remote control systems for the waterfalls and spa, boulder walls and custom wood work. How to make it all work together; now that would be challenging.
