HNA Hardscape Project Award Winner A Slice of Paradise Strongsville, Ohio Rock Bottom Lawn & Landscaping With a resort-like feel, this project incorporates many entertainment features. The homeowner requested an area for hosting large parties without feeling crowded. The separate design elements allow for more intimate gatherings within the overall project. These elements include a partially covered outdoor kitchen/bar, large dining area, covered pavilion and fireplace patio, in-ground swimming pool with accompanying pool deck, and a raised gas fire pit patio bordered by a curved seat wall. The theme of contrast runs throughout the project while unifying each of the features. Light and dark, smooth and textured, linear and sinuous play off each other adding interest and bringing attention to the materials used. The large pavers were chosen to fit the grand scale and style of the project, additionally creating a smooth surface along the pool deck, all while having a minimal joint between pavers. Textured dark grey and brown pavers provide accents and borders throughout the site. Seven feet of elevation change from the threshold of the house to the back side of the pool wall had to be taken into account. Retaining walls and the placement of patios limit the amount of stairs between areas, as requested by the homeowner, while still creating vertical interest in key places such as the fire pit patio. Non-concrete elements such as the palm trees, wooden pergolas and columns combine with the hardscaping to create a truly unique and relaxing slice of paradise.