This project, located in Dedham, Massachusetts, presented a unique set of challenges. The clients had a long wish list for their outdoor space, including a pool, pool house, hot tub, outdoor kitchen, gas fire pit, landscape lighting, and privacy plantings—all to be installed in a relatively small backyard. Adding to the complexity, the project needed to comply with strict guidelines from the local conservation committee. These guidelines required that no additional stormwater runoff could be generated by the installation. As a result, every drop of rainwater landing on the new hardscapes had to be captured and managed on-site. With such limitations, creativity and technical precision were critical at every stage of the design.
Client Wishlist and Initial Landscape Condition: The existing landscape was essentially a blank canvas—a common scenario in newly developed neighborhoods. The contractor who built the home had planted a simple lawn with minimal foundation plantings, leaving the space underutilized and lacking character. This provided us with the freedom to design from scratch but also required an innovative approach to meet the client’s vision while adhering to the conservation committee’s stringent requirements.
The client’s vision for the backyard was ambitious, encompassing a wide range of outdoor amenities, all within a limited space. These included:
- A pool with a sun shelf
- A hot tub
- A custom U-shaped outdoor kitchen and grill island
- A gas fire pit
- Landscape lighting
- Privacy plantings to create a secluded outdoor retreat
Addressing Conservation Committee Requirements: To meet the conservation committee’s guidelines, we collaborated with drainage engineers to manage all stormwater runoff on-site. This was achieved using Cultec drywells, which are underground chambers designed to collect and infiltrate rainwater back into the soil. These systems allow water to naturally percolate into the ground, reducing runoff and preventing surface flooding.
We utilized an existing Cultec drywell in the front yard to handle part of the runoff, and installed a larger system in the backyard. Patio drains were routed to this new drywell, ensuring all water from the hardscape—such as the patio and pool deck—was captured and managed in compliance with regulations. This sustainable solution not only mitigated stormwater but also recharged groundwater, addressing both environmental and regulatory concerns.
Key Features of the Project:
- Porcelain Paver Patio: One of the standout elements of this landscape design is the use of porcelain pavers for the pool deck and patio areas. Porcelain is an increasingly popular material for outdoor applications, thanks to its durability, aesthetic appeal, and heat resistance. Unlike natural stone or concrete pavers, porcelain remains cooler to the touch under direct sunlight, making it an excellent choice for poolside applications. Additionally, it offers a price point that falls between concrete pavers and high-end natural stone like bluestone or granite, making it an attractive option for both functionality and budget.
- Custom U-Shaped Grill Island: The outdoor kitchen is a focal point of the backyard, featuring a custom-built U-shaped grill island. This design not only maximizes functionality for the chef but also enhances the social aspect of the space. Friends and family can comfortably sit at the bar-style seating around the grill, allowing the host to interact with guests while preparing meals. The island’s positioning also provides an excellent view of the pool, creating a cohesive entertainment zone.
- Boulder Retaining Wall: To maximize the usable space in the backyard, we installed a stunning boulder retaining wall. This feature not only served an aesthetic purpose but also addressed a functional challenge posed by the existing grade of the landscape. The natural slope of the yard limited the amount of flat, usable space, so by incorporating a boulder wall, we were able to expand the level area and create more room for the pool, hot tub, and surrounding patio. The large, natural stones blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment and lend a rugged, yet elegant, character to the backyard. This approach also helped manage erosion and water flow, further enhancing the project’s stormwater management system.
- Pool with Sun Shelf: The pool includes a luxurious sun shelf—a shallow area perfect for lounging and cooling off on hot days without fully submerging in the water. This feature adds an element of resort-like relaxation to the space and is especially popular for families with children or those who enjoy sunbathing.
Front Yard Design for Curb Appeal: While the backyard was the primary focus of this project, the front yard was also transformed to enhance the home’s curb appeal and create a welcoming entrance. A stunning freestanding stone wall, complete with an address block and under-cap lighting, serves as a statement feature. This wall not only defines the property’s boundary but also adds a touch of elegance that can be appreciated day or night.
A generously sized paver walkway was installed to connect the front landing to the driveway and street, offering both functionality and visual appeal. In the landscape beds, a mix of evergreens, hydrangeas, perennials, and ornamental grasses was chosen to ensure multi-season interest. The evergreens provide structure and color in the winter months, while the flowering plants and grasses create texture and vibrant hues during spring and summer.
This Dedham project is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and engineering. Despite the challenges posed by the conservation committee’s restrictions and the tight space, we were able to create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that exceeded the client’s expectations. By leveraging creative design solutions, such as the custom grill island, boulder retaining wall, and porcelain pavers, alongside careful stormwater management planning, we transformed a blank slate into a stunning, multifunctional landscape. The result is a private, luxurious outdoor retreat that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings and complies with all regulatory guidelines.
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