---
title: "Land & Water Design — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/land-and-water-design-pfvwus-pf~1417761609
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1417761609.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "Land & Water Design"
category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/207377e60d41c45a_3518-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "Haymarket, Virginia 20169, United States"
phone: "(571) 758-5730"
website: https://www.landandwaterdesign.com
rating: 4.9
review_count: 32
best_of_houzz_awards: 21
followers: 542
last_updated: 2026-09-06
---

# Land & Water Design

Original Houzz profile: [Land & Water Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/land-and-water-design-pfvwus-pf~1417761609)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers
- **Location:** Haymarket, VA
- **Serves:** Arlington, Alexandria, Centreville, McLean, Leesburg, Ashburn, Manassas, Oakton, South Riding, Sterling, Fairfax, Chantilly, Brambleton, Sudley, Gainesville, Vienna, Fort Hunt, Stone Ridge, Great Falls, Falls Church, Warrenton, Mantua, Bull Run, Belle Haven, Dulles Town Center, Bull Run Mountain Estates, Haymarket, Hamilton, Middleburg, Clifton, The Plains, Aldie, Waterford, Annapolis, Bethesda, Bristow, Catharpin, Chevy Chase, Darnestown, Dulles, North Potomac, Potomac Falls, Silver Spring, Tysons, Upper Marlboro, Washington DC
- **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (32 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 21 awards (2012–2026), for Design, Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Star Houzzer
- Houzz Influencer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 100,000 Ideabook Saves
- Best of Houzz winner
- High-end
- 23 years in business

Land &amp; Water Design specializes in creating award-winning outdoor landscapes and swimming pools, with over 30 years of experience assisting homeowners in the Washington, D.C. metro area. We focus on developing functional and elegant outdoor living spaces.

We offer comprehensive planning, design, and management services, collaborating with top local contractors to ensure projects of exceptional quality. Since 2003, we have partnered with homeowners to craft unique and distinctive outdoor environments, providing expertise through all phases of landscape architecture, including construction oversight. Our extensive experience allows us to transform challenging terrains into creative design solutions.

As a Landscape Architecture Design firm, our primary role is to work closely with you. We aim to understand your specific needs and expectations, then translate your ideas into a comprehensive and functional plan. This plan will be uniquely tailored to your home, property's natural attributes, lifestyle, and personality.

Don Nesmith, Principal CEO and Founding Landscape Architect, has been practicing landscape architecture in the Washington D.C. area for the past forty years. He graduated from UMass, Stockbridge School of Agriculture with a major in Landscape Construction, and earned a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Georgia in 1970, completing the five-year curriculum in three years.

Don’s professional background includes working as a landscape architect for VVKR INC., Harry Weese &amp; Assoc., and Greenhorne &amp; O'Mara, Inc. He was responsible for diverse projects such as public parks, historic restorations, and private gardens. His work has received design awards for McLean Central Park and Sully Plantation Restoration, the latter being a joint venture with two close colleagues.

Today, Don and his team primarily focus their design talents on upscale residential clientele.

### Services Provided

- Landscape Design
- Garden Design
- Hardscaping
- Landscape Plans
- Patio Design
- Drought Tolerant Landscaping
- Site Planning
- Custom Fire Pits
- Pool Landscaping
- Custom Water Features
- Swimming Pool Design
- Gazebo Design & Construction
- Design Consultation
- Outdoor Lighting Design
- Deck Design
- 3D Rendering
- Project Management
- Drafting
- Custom Bocce Ball Courts
- Natural Swimming Pools
- Swimming Pool Construction
- Construction Drawings
- Custom Pools
- Deck Construction
- Outdoor Living Design
- Patio Construction
- Pergola Design & Construction
- Pool Deck Design & Construction
- Pool Remodeling
- Spa Design & Construction
- Swimming Pool Builder
- Trellis Design & Construction

### Areas Served

- Arlington
- Alexandria
- Centreville
- McLean
- Leesburg
- Ashburn
- Manassas
- Oakton
- South Riding
- Sterling
- Fairfax
- Chantilly
- Brambleton
- Sudley
- Gainesville
- Vienna
- Fort Hunt
- Stone Ridge
- Great Falls
- Falls Church
- Warrenton
- Mantua
- Bull Run
- Belle Haven
- Dulles Town Center
- Bull Run Mountain Estates
- Haymarket
- Hamilton
- Middleburg
- Clifton
- The Plains
- Aldie
- Waterford
- Annapolis
- Bethesda
- Bristow
- Catharpin
- Chevy Chase
- Darnestown
- Dulles
- North Potomac
- Potomac Falls
- Silver Spring
- Tysons
- Upper Marlboro
- Washington DC

### Typical Job Cost

$100,000 - 1 million +

Gunite or Shotcrete pool costs $175K+.

Entry point for a pool, hardscape, landscape, required fencing or auto cover, design & engineering, permit fees, & yard remediation costs $350K+. 
Authentic Resort-style backyard makeovers can value upwards to 7 figures. 

Full master plans with hardscape and landscape design 10k+.

Potential engineering fees associated with topography and boundary surveys may be required.

80% of our clientele are in homes that are valued at 950K+.

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | Land & Water Design |
| Address | Haymarket, Virginia 20169, United States |
| Phone | (571) 758-5730 |
| Website | https://www.landandwaterdesign.com |
| License Number | VA \# 0406000110 |
| Followers on Houzz | 542 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/LandWaterDesign/
- X (Twitter) — https://www.instagram.com/landwaterdesign/
- LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/landwaterdesign/
- Blog — https://www.landandwaterdesign.com/articles/

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [Land & Water Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/land-and-water-design-pfvwus-pf~1417761609)
- **Website:** https://www.landandwaterdesign.com
- **Phone:** (571) 758-5730

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- Registered Landscape Architect
- ASLA Member
- LCA 2016 & 2017 Grand Award Outdoor Living Area Design/Build,
- LCA 2019 Grand Award Outdoor Living Area Design/Build,
- LCA 2019 Award of Distinction for Craftsmanship

- **Best of Houzz:** 21 awards (2012–2026), for Design, Service.

**Affiliations**
- [American Society of Landscape Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/american-society-of-landscape-architects-pfvwus-pf~2014062207)

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 32 reviews**

*Aspect averages:*
- Work Quality: 50.0
- Communication: 50.0
- Value: 50.0

### Reviews

**★★★★★ — ncarso, July 2024**

> Don was an awesome partner.  He came up with a fantastic design, provided guidance throughout the entire process, and provided us with an outdoor space that is amazing.

**Comment from Land & Water Design:**

> Thank you Nick & Shin, you made Craig Smith, BR Design/Build Contractor, O’Kelly Russell, Land & Water Design’s landscape architect associate and my job easy. Your decisions regarding LWD design, landscape choices and the suggestion for using Belgard pavers & wall material. Only item left is the new composite fence which will be installed this week. Enjoy the remainder of the summer making memories with your family & friends in your new backyard.
> Thanks for sharing the Before photo.

**★★★★★ — Jessica Gada, April 2024**

> We are thrilled with the work that Land & Water Design has done for our backyard. Our yard and pool had not been touched in decades, and they completely revived it. Don incorporated the complex topography of our backyard and the aesthetic of our house to create a unified, flowing, beautiful and practical space. From hardscape (all new retaining walls, dining spaces, and shade needs) to native plantings (including thoughts about how to easily maintain the plants and trees), there's not a single detail they didn't consider. Their communication, consideration of our needs and wants, timeliness, and selection of supporting teams/contractors is above and beyond. We couldn't recommend them more, and look forward to using their services as we continue to add onto our project in the near future!

**★★★★★ — HU-278980845, Sept. 2023**

> Don was excellent throughout the process.  His experience and creativity in designing water features are tremendous.  He was professional, courteous and engaged.  Even though he was suffering with serious back issues, he was consistently present and engaged in our project from design to the completion of the construction. I highly recommend him and his company.

**★★★★★ — HU-344702348, Sept. 2023**

> I have worked with Don and his team at Land & Water Designs for over 10 years. I would recommend them to anyone looking for their dreams to come true. Don attention to detail and craftsmanship are top notch!

**★★★★★ — TB, Sept. 2023**

> Land and Water design represents the benchmark in HARDSCAPE design and integration into the GREENSCAPE. From coping to cooking; fire pit to wine fridge; shade structure to paving slabs I trust the team at L&W Design. If a personalized outdoor living space is on your wish list you can’t go wrong with the experience and creativity of Don!

**★★★★★ — Techo Taphouse (Southeast Hardscape Consultant), Sept. 2023**

> I have known and worked with Don and his team for almost a decade. Don has been a trend setter for the outdoor living industry for even before I met him. He was on the cover of the Techo-Bloc catalog multiple times and is as talented of a designer as any I have met. He cares about his customers and is simply a great person. I highly recommend Don and his team at Land & Water Design!

**★★★★★ — Hiep Dao, Feb. 2022**

> We used Land and Water Design to design the hardscape and decking for our pool project in McLean, VA. They did a very thorough job and came out to discuss our wants/needs for the project.  They did a great timely job in getting us the plans quickly as we were still bidding out the pool projects amongst pool builders in the area. We also had a long extensive variance process with Fairfax County that complicated matters as we were restricted what part of the yard we could use for the construction of the pool and deck.  Don did a great job with the design and it looks great.  Unfortunately we were not able to use the design as it was over our budget and violated the variance parameters but it gave us some really good ideas for our eventual build.  They were very professional, timely and great with communication throughout the process.  I would highly recommend Land and Water Design.

**★★★★★ — c\|s DESIGN STUDIO LLC, Jan. 2022**

> We hired Don from Land & Water Design to help us design a refresh of our pool and backyard, as well as a master plan for our property in Fairfax Station.  Don was very responsive from the first phone call and we immediately synced up well in terms of design philosophy and approach.  So much in fact that we didn't interview any other designers for the project!  I am an Interior Designer and had some initial ideas, but wasn't sure how to implement.  Don was great in educating us and listened to our dreams for the project.  He came up with a wonderful design that was even better than we imagined.  We are currently in construction and seeing it come to life is amazing!  Thanks Don and Mike for all your expertise!

**Comment from Land & Water Design:**

> Christina & Scott thank you for being great clients and providing this review.

**★★★★★ — Nina Smith, March 2021**

> Land and Water Design has more than met our expectations. Don is so easy to work with and very responsive to every text and phone call. His design is exactly what we wanted and we cannot wait to enjoy our backyard oasis this summer!

**Comment from Land & Water Design:**

> Nathan & Nina, thank you for your review and your confidence in Land & water Design. It is exciting seeing the early stages of your backyard pool, hardscape and landscape coming together. Before you know it you will be sitting on your oversized sun shelf enjoying the sound of the sheer descents from the 3' raised fieldstone bond beam not missing the ambient noise except for the birds & nature. Cannot wait to see the finished product!

**★★★★★ — Gibson Dunn, May 2019**

> Don was wonderfully creative and responsive in designing for our somewhat difficult site. The final design and its construction were beautiful, artistic and dramatic. We thoroughly enjoy the fountain, water feature and lighting. It is everything we hoped it would be.

**Comment from Land & Water Design:**

> Gibson & Cheryl, thank you for your review. We were challenged with the site due to the limited access to the backyard but are very happy with the finished zen-like water feature you requested. The sheet decent waterfalls and masonry planters and lighting really put the finishing touches on your outdoor living space.

**★★★★★ — Justin H., May 2019**

> We hired L&W in the fall of 2017 to design our landscape plan for a major pool deck and and patio installation.  L&W was prompt, professional, and great to work with.  Their knowledge on design, materials and technology made our decision making process much easier.  We ultimately expanded L&W's scope to include finalizing designs for a pool house and generation of drawings for permitting, etc. Don and his team worked seamlessly as needed with our contractors to ensure construction went as planned. We couldn't be happier with the result.  Photos to follow!

**★★★★★ — Don & Alison Seaborn, Dec. 2018**

> We would highly recommend Land & Water Design.  We had been searching for years for someone to design a deck and backyard for our unusual space.  Don was the right man for the job.  Not only do you get Don's design and expertise you get his amazing and highly skilled team of contractors.  Don listens to your vision for your space and comes up with a design that will blow your socks off!  From start to finish and all the changes in-between Don and his team provide highly quality work and a beautiful end result.
>
> We couldn't have asked for a better design/build team.  Our backyard is a beautiful oasis that will provide many wonderful memories our family will enjoy for years to come!

**Comment from Land & Water Design:**

> Thank you for the review. We enjoyed working with you and appreciate your recognition of our work.  We hope you are enjoying your swimming pool and spa with the waterslide and fire pit for years to come. The porch and kitchen overlooking the pool and sunsets must be your favorite family and friend hangout.

## Selected projects

- [Custom Pool Sorrel Grove](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-pool-sorrel-grove-pj-vj~7274022)
  - Location: Ashburn, VA
  - Photos: 12
  - Description: This custom swimming pool and water feature was designed to fulfill our client's "wish list" for a small residential pool with a large tanning ledge and a Techobloc Blu 60-paver patio. Accent boulders and landscaping were incorporated along the pool corners adding a blend of the hardscape with nature. The custom fieldstone water feature creates a visual focal point and the soothing sound of the three sheer descent waterfalls enhances the ambiance.
- [Resort Style Living- 2019 LCA Distinction Award](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/resort-style-living-2019-lca-distinction-award-pj-vj~5833462)
  - Location: Warrenton, VA
  - Photos: 18
  - Description: We had an open canvas for our ideas, we visioned a custom open porch and composite deck with a 35’ custom outdoor kitchen, overlooking a natural freeform custom pool, large tanning shelf, 25’ waterslide for the kids and adults, and the raised stone veneered oversized spa, all framed with a simple low maintenance landscape pallet. For the cool evenings, we pictured a two-tier gas fire table outside of the spa where the family and friends could sit and enjoy a panoramic view of their entire future…
- [Contemporary Water Feature- 2019 LCA Grand Award](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-water-feature-2019-lca-grand-award-pj-vj~3846145)
  - Location: Great Falls, VA
  - Photos: 13
  - Description: The water feature is 24” deep 500 s.f. and filled with 6” of Black Mexican beach pebbles. Multiple Techobloc Raffinato planters each equipped with drip irrigation. Plantings were installed by our client. Six sheer descent waterfalls and multi-colored underwater lights are controlled from the client's mobile phone or iPad. All the paving is a Turkish Travertine with a connecting floating bridge that leads to a more private sunken patio/pavilion area, where one can sit and enjoy the tranquil sound…
- [Ashburn Pool Project](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ashburn-pool-project-pj-vj~1426340)
  - Location: Ashburn, VA
  - Photos: 18
  - Description: Our client contacted our company to discuss a custom pool project. When visiting the site for the first time, we knew it would pose a challenge. The space we would be designing was less than 2500 s.f. and access was going to constitute a problem for our crews. On the side of the downhill neighbor was a 10' stormwater management easement, which was not be altered. Our goal was to develop a plan, which when completed would give the illusion of a much larger space. As you can see from the Before Ph…
- [Bali Outdoor Living](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bali-outdoor-living-pj-vj~709376)
  - Location: Clifton, VA
  - Photos: 15
  - Description: Our client wanted a relaxing, Bali like feel to their backyard, a place where they can entertain their friends. Entrance walkway off the driveway, with zen garden and waterfalls. Pavilion with outdoor kitchen, large fireplace with ample seating, multilevel deck with grill center, pergola, and fieldstone retaining walls.
- [Fairfax Station Luxury Estate in Virginia](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fairfax-station-luxury-estate-in-virginia-pj-vj~535787)
  - Location: Fairfax Station, VA
  - Photos: 11
  - Description: Custom Landscape Master Plan for a 6-acre property in Northern Virginia. The components built are an aesthetically defined front entrance with paver walkways. The client requested a new motor court, with a 3-bay two story apartment garage. The swimming pool is a custom pool with raised covered spa, rain curtain, and fire bowl, water features, and large paver pool deck. The project also has a custom stone fireplace, pool house, storage area, outdoor shower, multiple terracing with native stone wa…
- [Dominion Valley Naturalistic Pool](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dominion-valley-naturalistic-pool-pj-vj~745950)
  - Location: Gainesville, VA
  - Photos: 15
  - Description: Custom swimming pool with sheer descent waterfalls and enclosed dolphin waterslide. Pool Pavilion with wood burning fireplace and pergolas.
- [Backyard Living -2017 LCA Grand Award](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/backyard-living-2017-lca-grand-award-pj-vj~53806)
  - Location: Brookeville, MD
  - Photos: 17
  - Description: Our client was envisioning this amazing backyard to enjoy with their family and friends. The challenge was the property was a corner lot exposed to neighbors and local traffic, plus needing to comply with the strict covenants set forth by the community HOA. Our first challenge was to develop a plan based on a large list of design parameters our client wanted to be included in their backyard get-away. Second, was accommodating all of the items in a backyard less than 5000 s.f. with a change in el…
- [Rockville Backyard Retreat- 2016 LCA Grand Award](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rockville-backyard-retreat-2016-lca-grand-award-pj-vj~535808)
  - Location: Rockville, MD
  - Photos: 34
  - Description: Our client contacted us to design an outdoor living space. The property has a "no build" environmental zone and an erosion storm runoff, requiring a lot of design ingenuity. We came up with a plan within the restrictions by creating a dry stream bed and adding water-loving plants to collect rainwater and directing it into a storm water runoff. On the upper level of the property, we have the living area with a salt-water pool with a sheer descent water feature and sun shelf. The pool deck pavers…
- [Palatine Potomac Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/palatine-potomac-residence-pj-vj~535772)
  - Location: Potomac, MD
  - Photos: 18
  - Description: A Backyard Resort with a freeform saltwater pool as the focal point, a spa provides a spot to relax. A large raised waterfall spills into the pool, appearing to flow from the koi pond above. We extended a streambed to flow from behind the outdoor kitchen, all the way to the patio, to spill into the koi pond. A Sports Court at one end of the yard with putting greens meander throughout the landscape and the water features. A curved outdoor kitchen with a large Viking grill with a warming drawer to…
- [Lake Manassas Golf Community](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-manassas-golf-community-pj-vj~45826)
  - Location: Gainesville, VA
  - Photos: 6
  - Description: We took a small non-defined space and created an enjoyable backyard integrating an existing flagstone patio with a new lower flagstone patio, complete with new stucco retaining walls, raised planters, fire bowls, and fire table. The main focal point of the patio is the new water feature, a series of basalt towers sitting on a bed of black Mexican beach pebbles. The landscaping & outdoor lighting complete the package. Small yard with a million dollar view of the golf course and Lake Manassas in t…
- [Modern Balinese In Clifton Virginia](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-balinese-in-clifton-virginia-pj-vj~938029)
  - Location: Clifton, VA
  - Photos: 27
  - Description: Tropical living in timeless, luxurious style. ... Modern Balinese, and a blend of Asian influences with Contemporary, Mediterranean architecture. Builder: Professional Grounds, Inc. Photography: George Brown Photography
- [Custom Pool & Water Feature](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-pool-and-water-feature-pj-vj~535761)
  - Location: Centreville, VA
  - Photos: 21
  - Description: Custom freeform naturalistic boulder pool with water feature, elevated spa, and extensive Techobloc paver pool patio, landscaped with multiple perennials, groundcovers, indigenous native plantings.
- [Hillside Pool Chevy Chase Maryland](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hillside-pool-chevy-chase-maryland-pj-vj~16629)
  - Location: Chevy Chase, MD
  - Photos: 12
  - Description: A custom pool in a narrow backyard with a pergola attached to the house and supported with boxed columns defines a cozy dining space at the poolside. Three sheer descent waterfalls pour from the face of the wall behind the pool, adding beauty to what would otherwise be a strictly functional retaining wall. We even found a room at one end of the pool for a small outdoor grill island.
- [Leesburg Beacon Hill Pool Landscape](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/leesburg-beacon-hill-pool-landscape-pj-vj~535890)
  - Location: Leesburg, VA
  - Photos: 9
  - Description: This project the home sat at the top of the hill with breathtaking views all around. The challenge was restrictions that dictated the placement of the pool a distance from the house. The final design was very pleasing with the swimming pool on the slope with these amazing views. A walkway leads from the side of the home to the pool gate. On entering the pool area, reveals a spa cascading into the pool, ample Techo-Bloc paver pool decking, and the valley laid out below.
- [Contemporary BackWoods Homestead](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-backwoods-homestead-pj-vj~761907)
  - Location: Clifton, VA
  - Photos: 10
  - Description: Set on 7 acres in Clifton, VA our client contacted our team to develop an overall master plan which included a new Techobloc paver entrance with (2) 30"x30"x30"H stacked fieldstone piers with custom LED light fixtures, multi-level paver walkways, patio and retaining wall/seat walls. A custom integrated water wall was designed to conceal the existing substructure of the current Ipe deck. Outside the master bedroom, we created a natural boulder lined pondless water feature as a focal point enhance…
- [Vienna Backyard Resort Living](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/vienna-backyard-resort-living-pj-vj~535774)
  - Location: Vienna, VA
  - Photos: 16
  - Description: This challenging site near Wolf Trap had an existing swimming pool at the end of the property. With twelve feet of grade change across the backyard, our landscape design dilemma was; how to connect the new pool with the house, create lots of living space, and still get people to the landscape below. The entire rear of the house was renovated, giving us an opportunity to build a new composite multi-level deck. We crafted a covered living space under the deck and sunroom. Techo-Bloc pavers, a ston…
- [Darnestown Naturalistic Pool](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/darnestown-naturalistic-pool-pj-vj~535763)
  - Location: Gaithersburg, MD
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: Our client was building a new house on 2.5 acres in Northern Montgomery County, Maryland and contacted our company to design an overall master plan for the entire property. Their design requests included a custom naturalistic swimming pool with spa and significant boulder water feature. Extensive pool patio for entertaining 50-60 people comfortably, a custom pool storage area for pool accessories to be an extension of their new home. Elevated composite deck with curved rails, wide stairs, outdoo…
- [Alexandria Townhouse Pool](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/alexandria-townhouse-pool-pj-vj~535804)
  - Location: Alexandria, VA
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: Our client requested our team to design a unique backyard, utilizing every bit of open area. Within the requests were a 12'x22' swimming pool with swim jet system to accommodate the competitive swimmers in their family. The items on their "wish list" were enough hardscape areas to accommodate at least 20 guests, a beautiful low maintenance landscape, custom storage area, outdoor lighting, water jets, retaining wall, seat walls, and finally a small area for outdoor grilling.
- [Arlington Pool and Walkway](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/arlington-pool-and-walkway-pj-vj~535778)
  - Location: Arlington, VA
  - Photos: 10
  - Description: New Flagstone Front Walkway, Landscaping, Swimming Pool with Sheer Descents, Screened Porch.

[See all 37 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/land-and-water-design-pfvwus-pf~1417761609)

## Community Q&A

**Q: What kind of stone did you use for the face and the caps?** *(in Photo Questions)*

What kind of stone did you use for the face and the caps? its beautiful!!!!

A: The face of the treads &amp; wall caps are hand split rock edge.

**Q: Wall material?** *(in Photo Questions)*

can you share details regarding the stone used on the retaining walls?

A: Select Maryland fieldstone veneer.

**Q: heron sculptures** *(in Photo Questions)*

Where were the heron sculptures purchased? They are nicer than what I usually see.

A: Your welcome

**Q: pool depth** *(in Photo Questions)*

what is the greatest depth of the pool?

A: The depth of the pool is 5’ on the deep end are a swim jet system. This pool is a townhouse backyard in Alexandria, VA designed &amp; built in 2005. Pool dimensions are 12’x32’

**Q: Slide** *(in Photo Questions)*

This is one long waterslide! Who are the main manufacturers of these slides, and what would be the cost for installing, let's say, a 15 foot slide as part of a new pool build? Thanks

A: The slide is manufactured by Dolphin Waterslides. Call they can answer your questions regards to cost which will be different due to rise in material costs.
Our slide was $25k when it was completed 25 lf (3) poured in place reinforced concrete 18” diameter piers.
Dolphin Waterslides
PO Box 486
153 E. Main Street
Adamsville, TN 33310
Bren &amp; Lisa Thomas
731-632-1407

**Q: 12' by 40' stone wall is it safe?** *(in Landscape Design)*

There is a 40' wide 12' tall stone (quarry?) wall at the back edge of my property.  On the top of the wall and heading back 120' is the backyard of the people behind me (they can stand on the edge of the wall and see my property below. The wall has been there since the late 50's.  When it was built, they used a small pulley crane, and the rocks were perfectly cut to match and laid on top of each other (straight up and down).  Therefore they were not binded together (no need because it was solid).

The wall is now covered in ivy with a couple small trees growing out of it.  I'm nervous about it's structure.   Should I be? (I have no idea about these types of things). Whom or What type of professional contractor can I have to come out and inspect it for safety?   It's probably safe, but this year I will be working at the base of it to remove all kinds of under brush and weeds on about a 5' strip of land (that sits behind a fence). I'm nervous about some sort of rock slide, or pulling one of the trees out.   It's not bowing excessively, but it has shifted over the years just a tiny bit.  How can I remove those trees safely from the crevices?  Do you think it's safe to work underneath to clear the brush? (to whom can I ask?).  Is it still a solid structure?

-Joe

A: As a registered landscape architect, I’d suggest investing in licensed structural engineer who can assess the wall’s structural integrity. Does the wall have a batter, which is a determined recessed angle that continues to the top of the wall with the final appearance, the wall appears to be leaning into the slope. The structural engineer would be the best professional call.

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-06.*
