Rancho Santa Fe home, photo by Cary Pennington Photography
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Leesburg, VA

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Natural Landscape and Pool Renovation

Exterior Worlds Landscaping & Design

Years ago, Exterior Worlds was contacted by a couple by the names of Rick and Susan Ashcroft. They asked if we could do something about the lagoon-style swimming pool that had been built behind their house in the late1940s. This style had been very popular at that time, and it is still a favored by some of the world’s more lavish resorts. However, ever since the day they had purchased their home, the Ashcroft’s had always been agitated by the ostentatiousness of the whole thing, and had finally decided to have it redesigned as a natural swimming pool. They wanted their back yard to retain the feeling of a tropical locale, but lose the touristic element in favor of that of a cozier, more private corner of paradise. We agreed with their sentiments wholeheartedly. Just a cursory glance at the property confirmed that a natural swimming pool design was a much better fit for the grade of the landscape and the surrounding opportunities for vegetation and lighting. The Ashcroft residence was located on the side of a hill that sloped down toward a ravine, and the house itself house was built 40 feet back from the road. The steep grade of the land posed construction challenges to any type of water feature, but there was a way to build a natural swimming pool here that would achieve the aesthetic the Ashcroft’s were seeking and create a lasting element that required only limited and very intermittent periods of maintenance. We began by stripping the pool down to its shell and building a retaining wall that offset the grade of the land. We shaped the surrounding earth around it into a much deeper basin that would allow water to collect naturally like it does at the base of a cliff. A series of interlocking pavers was laid around the perimeter to create a flat surface that extended from the back of the home to the retaining wall. This is a standard aesthetic used in most natural swimming pools, but it also served a special, practical purpose in this instance. Since this area was subject to heavy land erosion from runoff rainwater, pavers provided a very efficient way of reconstructing key elements of the structure every 5-10 years. The natural swimming pool now appeared as an inviting portal into a remote hill country getaway, just a stone’s throw away from the back of the house. We made it easier to reach by building two series of stone steps that led down to either side of the water’s edge. We were careful to avoid making them look too much like stairs. Instead, we designed them to closely mimic the layers of rock that often jut from the sides of mountains and dormant volcanoes on islands all over the Pacific. To further develop this theme, we placed a large flat stone to serve as a diving area, and we created a waterfall on either side of it by laying down stones in a manner that created varying speeds of water. Our construction methods here were very unique in comparison to those of our competitors. We took almost a month to consciously and deliberately lay each stone by hand. While this may seem painstakingly detailed to some, the rewards were astonishing, because our natural swimming pool mimicked Nature in such a way that it lacked almost all evidence of human engineering, and looked virtually identical to something you would stumble upon in the jungle of a tropical paradise. If you are interested in any high-quality landscape services, Exterior Worlds has been providing the high-end residential landscape services and garden design services discussed above for the Houston and the surrounding areas including memorial villages (Piney Point Village, Bunker Hill Village, Hunter Creek Village), Tanglewood, River Oaks, West University and the greater Houston (Hou), area since 1987. Contact us at 713-827-2255 For more the 20 years Exterior Worlds has specialized in servicing many of Houston's fine neighborhoods.

Pasadena

SC POOLS

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J. Michael Fine Homes, LLC

Our newest model home - the Avalon by J. Michael Fine Homes is now open in Twin Rivers Subdivision - Parrish FL visit www.JMichaelFineHomes.com for all photos.

Pool Ideas

On a hot summer day, nothing is as refreshing as a swimming pool. Although often seen as a luxury, they can serve many functions and be well worth the splurge in the right area. Besides being a nice place to relax and cool off, pools can add much-needed visual interest to your yard — think colorful tiles or a unique water feature. Read further and browse photos for more tips on how to make your pool ideas a reality. In your location, swimming pools might also be a solid investment; buyers practically require them places with hot summers and mild winters, so installing or updating one could help your home sell. As you get ready to start your in-ground pool and spa remodel, map out your space and consider what size, shape and style might work best for you. Having an idea in mind when you talk with a specialist will help the process go smoothly.

What are my swimming pool design options?

Location, size and desired activity will determine which pool designs might work best for you. If you live somewhere that’s warm only four months out of the year, an outdoor pool might not be worth the splurge — though an indoor one might. Regardless of whether you go with indoor or outdoor, the size of the space will dictate the shape of the pool. Carefully consider how much space you want to dedicate to the entire project; if you start adding extras, like a pool deck and specialty landscaping, your yard-to-pool ratio can quickly become unbalanced. With a long and narrow space, look for rectangular lap pool design ideas that might fit well; wider areas will give you more freedom to have a specialty shape, which means the options are endless. Similarly, various installation techniques are more suited to certain lifestyles. In-ground swimming pools are a major (potentially lifetime) commitment. Construction, maintenance and energy bills add up, so make sure you’re ready to take that plunge. If you aren’t ready for that sort of commitment, consider an alternative, such as an above-ground pool or a hot tub. The above-ground options can be set up when the weather permits, so you still get to enjoy the warm summer months without sacrificing your yard year round. Make sure you have proper storage for the unit when it’s not in use though. Are you one of the many who see more cold than warm weather? A hot tub will surely see more use and is not quite such a daunting commitment, both financially and maintenance-wise. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you think the costs and upkeep are worth the time you will spend enjoying it.

What materials should I incorporate into my pool design?

The quality of your materials can easily dictate the life of your swimming pool or spa. Although vinyl is often the cheapest option, it also is the least durable, so it will need to be replaced more frequently. Concrete and fiberglass swimming pool designs are popular, sturdy options, while metal above ground units last longer than plastic ones. To liven up blah concrete or fiberglass, consider adding a colorful mosaic tile border or an interesting stone water feature. Some of the best pool ideas incorporate seamlessly into the landscape design by using natural-looking materials, or by using an infinity edge. Regardless of what you do, the short-term costs shouldn't be your only consideration; consider long-term maintenance and repair costs as well, like replacing broken tiles or fixing leaks and cracks.

What swimming pool extras and accessories can I add?

There are plenty of swimming pool ideas that will help magnify their fun factor. Install a diving board, slide or small waterfall to make swimming more enjoyable, and add floats, toys and loungers for ultimate relaxation. A cabana can help with entertaining during parties, while an outdoor shower and changing station come in handy once you're ready to head indoors. Adding ample seating and sun protection, like chaise lounges and umbrellas, will ensure everyone can enjoy the pool, even if they aren’t in it. Browse pictures of pools to see how others have enhanced their setups, then incorporate your favorite ideas into your own new build or remodel. Learn more about the cost to build a pool

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Great Falls, VA

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Pristine Acres51 Reviews

Leading Northern Virginia Custom Outdoor Specialist- 10x Best of Houzz

Luxurious Hacienda Estate

Prime Realty

Nestled at the top of the prestigious Enclave neighborhood established in 2006, this privately gated and architecturally rich Hacienda estate lacks nothing. Situated at the end of a cul-de-sac on nearly 4 acres and with approx 5,000 sqft of single story luxurious living, the estate boasts a Cabernet vineyard of 120+/- vines and manicured grounds. Stroll to the top of what feels like your own private mountain and relax on the Koi pond deck, sink golf balls on the putting green, and soak in the sweeping vistas from the pergola. Stunning views of mountains, farms, cafe lights, an orchard of 43 mature fruit trees, 4 avocado trees, a large self-sustainable vegetable/herb garden and lush lawns. This is the entertainer’s estate you have dreamed of but could never find. The newer infinity edge saltwater oversized pool/spa features PebbleTek surfaces, a custom waterfall, rock slide, dreamy deck jets, beach entry, and baja shelf –-all strategically positioned to capture the extensive views of the distant mountain ranges (at times snow-capped). A sleek cabana is flanked by Mediterranean columns, vaulted ceilings, stone fireplace & hearth, plus an outdoor spa-like bathroom w/travertine floors, frameless glass walkin shower + dual sinks. Cook like a pro in the fully equipped outdoor kitchen featuring 3 granite islands consisting of a new built in gas BBQ grill, two outdoor sinks, gas cooktop, fridge, & service island w/patio bar. Inside you will enjoy your chef’s kitchen with the GE Monogram 6 burner cooktop + grill, GE Mono dual ovens, newer SubZero Built-in Refrigeration system, substantial granite island w/seating, and endless views from all windows. Enjoy the luxury of a Butler’s Pantry plus an oversized walkin pantry, ideal for staying stocked and organized w/everyday essentials + entertainer’s supplies. Inviting full size granite-clad wet bar is open to family room w/fireplace as well as the kitchen area with eat-in dining. An intentional front Parlor room is utilized as the perfect Piano Lounge, ideal for entertaining guests as they enter or as they enjoy a meal in the adjacent Dining Room. Efficiency at its finest! A mudroom hallway & workhorse laundry rm w/hookups for 2 washer/dryer sets. Dualpane windows, newer AC w/new ductwork, newer paint, plumbed for central vac, and security camera sys. With plenty of natural light & mountain views, the master bed/bath rivals the amenities of any day spa. Marble clad finishes, include walkin frameless glass shower w/multi-showerheads + bench. Two walkin closets, soaking tub, W/C, and segregated dual sinks w/custom seated vanity. Total of 3 bedrooms in west wing + 2 bedrooms in east wing. Ensuite bathrooms & walkin closets in nearly each bedroom! Floorplan suitable for multi-generational living and/or caretaker quarters. Wheelchair accessible/RV Access + hookups. Park 10+ cars on paver driveway! 4 car direct & finished garage! Ready for recreation in the comfort of your own home? Built in trampoline, sandpit + playset w/turf. Zoned for Horses w/equestrian trails, hiking in backyard, room for volleyball, basketball, soccer, and more. In addition to the putting green, property is located near Sunset Hills, WoodRanch & Moorpark Country Club Golf Courses. Near Presidential Library, Underwood Farms, beaches & easy FWY access. Ideally located near: 47mi to LAX, 6mi to Westlake Village, 5mi to T.O. Mall. Find peace and tranquility at 5018 Read Rd: Where the outdoor & indoor spaces feel more like a sanctuary and less like the outside world.