This semi-retired couple in Richmond Hill asked Betz to create a premium lifestyle backyard for family recreation and entertaining. They wanted their sloping yard to have a wow factor, so using classic terracing a 16’ x 36’ Gunite pool was installed with a 21” high exposed glass end wall flanked by...

The pool’s premium Pebble Tec ‘Tropical Breeze’ grey/blue interior is ringed by slate grey flagstone coping. The patio of Mega Melville Scandina Grey slab pavers has matching steps and stone veneer for vertical surfaces. The Betz auto filler maintains the water level, so the glass wall creates an...

The pool deck lounge area is sheltered by a large Tucci umbrella complete with radiant heaters. The adjoining cabana with self-serve refreshment station features three undercounter fridges, storage cabinets, a sink and media screen. When not in use a rolldown wall provides protection from the...

The cabana also contains a pool equipment room and a washroom/change room with spacious vanity, storage cabinets and full shower. This facility is enjoyed by family and is especially appreciated when entertaining groups.

The home’s original small wood deck with picnic table was replaced with a much larger version in low maintenance composite wood surrounded by glass railings. It handily accommodates a dining table for ten, a lounge area with gas fire table and a custom outdoor barbecue station.

The barbecue station features a Napoleon Prestige Pro grill with matching stainless steel accessories including an Ooni pizza oven. The structure is clad with premium Dekton manufactured stone designed for outdoor countertops which is abrasion, scratch, impact plus water and stain resistant.

After dark the ambient light from the home’s soffit fixtures help to illuminate the backyard. The pool’s four LED lights are positioned to evenly spread the light throughout the pool, and for added drama, the programmable lighting system can be set to a single colour or a rotating rainbow of...

At the opposite end of the yard the lights from the lounge area and cabana help to set the mood. On warm summer evenings this is a favourite place to relax after a cooling dip. And for sports fans, it’s a must to turn on the big screen TV and cheer on the home team.

To complete the night lighting an array of garden lights highlight the shrubs and trees as they cast a warm glow on the cedar privacy fence. The final dramatic touch is the pair of Corinthian fire bowls from Grand Effects. Their premium bronze metallic finish complements the palette of earth tones.

This backyard is rich with optional gathering places. The natural gas firepit is a powerful draw, often with a conversation circle that extends beyond the five Muskoka chairs. Fortunately, the adjoining garden retaining wall happens to be at a perfect height for extra seating.