The couple that owns this 1950s residence sought to transform their backyard, creating a backyard oasis that would combine natural elements and contemporary design in a sexy, comfortable, family-friendly environment.

Working closely with the clients, I designed the space and new elements within it, overseeing contractors for walls and fences, planters, paving, planting and irrigation, lighting and fencing. The finished project combines wood, resin, steel, fabric, plants and masonry in innovative ways to create a relaxed, private space.

While a 14' x 10' play structure creates a safe place for children to play nearby, the anchor of the project is a custom-designed 6' x 6' x 3' spa created from stainless steel to recall the client's native Austria, where stainless steel swimming pools are common due to the climate and health standards.

The spa is housed in ipe wood decking, which also hides the spa equipment. An elegant sliding stainless steel cover enclosing a translucent 24" square panel protects the spa when not in use. Seats were constructed from orange 3form eco-resin, and fiber-optic lighting around the spa perimeter illuminates the waters from above. Two large lounging pads provide additional relaxation space next to and near the spa.

The project also included the reclamation of an adjacent abandoned property, expanding the yard by nearly 25%. The existing brick patio was reset to flow in harmony with the new space and new elements.

New 5' walls and a 6' fence shelter the property, along with fast-growing trees found throughout the mid-century neighborhood. The project worked within the framework set by existing, mature trees and utilities were buried to preserve and enhance the historic context of the setting.

The couple that owns this 1950s residence sought to transform their backyard, creating a backyard oasis that would combine natural elements and contemporary design in a sexy, comfortable, family-friendly environment.

Working closely with the clients, I designed the space and new elements within it, overseeing contractors for walls and fences, planters, paving, planting and irrigation, lighting and fencing. The finished project combines wood, resin, steel, fabric, plants and masonry in innovative ways to create a relaxed, private space.

While a 14' x 10' play structure creates a safe place for children to play nearby, the anchor of the project is a custom-designed 6' x 6' x 3' spa created from stainless steel to recall the client's native Austria, where stainless steel swimming pools are common due to the climate and health standards.

The spa is housed in ipe wood decking, which also hides the spa equipment. An elegant sliding stainless steel cover enclosing a translucent 24" square panel protects the spa when not in use. Seats were constructed from orange 3form eco-resin, and fiber-optic lighting around the spa perimeter illuminates the waters from above. Two large lounging pads provide additional relaxation space next to and near the spa.

The project also included the reclamation of an adjacent abandoned property, expanding the yard by nearly 25%. The existing brick patio was reset to flow in harmony with the new space and new elements.

New 5' walls and a 6' fence shelter the property, along with fast-growing trees found throughout the mid-century neighborhood. The project worked within the framework set by existing, mature trees and utilities were buried to preserve and enhance the historic context of the setting.

The couple that owns this 1950s residence sought to transform their backyard, creating a backyard oasis that would combine natural elements and contemporary design in a sexy, comfortable, family-friendly environment.

Working closely with the clients, I designed the space and new elements within it, overseeing contractors for walls and fences, planters, paving, planting and irrigation, lighting and fencing. The finished project combines wood, resin, steel, fabric, plants and masonry in innovative ways to create a relaxed, private space.

While a 14' x 10' play structure creates a safe place for children to play nearby, the anchor of the project is a custom-designed 6' x 6' x 3' spa created from stainless steel to recall the client's native Austria, where stainless steel swimming pools are common due to the climate and health standards.

The spa is housed in ipe wood decking, which also hides the spa equipment. An elegant sliding stainless steel cover enclosing a translucent 24" square panel protects the spa when not in use. Seats were constructed from orange 3form eco-resin, and fiber-optic lighting around the spa perimeter illuminates the waters from above. Two large lounging pads provide additional relaxation space next to and near the spa.

The project also included the reclamation of an adjacent abandoned property, expanding the yard by nearly 25%. The existing brick patio was reset to flow in harmony with the new space and new elements.

New 5' walls and a 6' fence shelter the property, along with fast-growing trees found throughout the mid-century neighborhood. The project worked within the framework set by existing, mature trees and utilities were buried to preserve and enhance the historic context of the setting.