From an awkward and narrow backyard to a stunning pool and deck – this Campbells Bay outdoor precinct was utterly transformed into an oasis that the homeowners love!
Nicci’s backyard in beautiful Campbells Bay, Auckland, was not an obvious choice for a pool installation. It was a very narrow site, but Nicci knew that with the right design and engineering, her dream of making a splash in her own backyard was possible.
Conscious that a pool install would be a significant project and investment, Nicci contacted her local Zones Landscaping Consultant Richard Burge for some expert advice. She explained to Richard that she loved her current home and location, but really wanted to see what options she had for a pool, despite the space constraints of the site.
Richard was excited by the challenge and was able to talk Nicci through some basic options at their free consultation, as well as explain more about the Zones process. Richard would be with Nicci every step of the way, from the design and consent phases, right through to construction and final delivery. Moreover, no work would begin until the final plans and costings were agreed to by both parties: there’d be no unwanted budget surprises!
Nicci loved the idea of this straightforward and stress-free process, and together the pair began detailed planning.
Designing a pool to fit the environment while working within the constraints of the site, including public storm water drainage, meant that Richard and the engineers needed to come up with some creative solutions to maximise the space without blowing out the budget. The pool was only one part of the conceptual challenge; Nicci also wanted a deck and social area to really make the space an extension of her home.
To maximise the width of the proposed pool, the property’s existing boundary fence would double as pool fencing along one side, while the rest of the fencing would be a stylish glass balustrade to create the illusion of space. A deck was carefully planned so that the flow from house to deck and pool felt seamless and would provide space for outdoor entertaining and relaxing.
Nicci chose a concrete pool because of the high durability and opted for additional landscaping and planting to complete the new look. The original budget estimation had been for the pool only, but Nicci was happy with a higher final price that would include beautiful new decking. With both the design and budget confirmed, it was time for outdoor action.
Pool excavation and construction is always a major project, requiring a host of professionals and suppliers. Luckily, Richard had an established network of tradespeople he trusted to deliver high quality workmanship and was able to coordinate them for Nicci’s project.
From design, engineering, surveying, and excavation, to drainlaying, decking, tiling, lighting, fencing and planting, Richard expertly project-managed every element of the build to keep things running smoothly on the difficult site. An unexpected one-month delay from the pool builder was the only setback to the schedule. Richard also managed the consent process for Nicci, making sure everything would be 100 percent code compliant.
Richard took Nicci’s backyard and transformed it from ordinary to sublime. A stunning concrete pool is now the focal point of the yard, replacing underutilised lawn and creating a relaxing oasis. Glass balustrade fencing creates the illusion of space and lighting on the refurbished boundary fence adds to the overall ambience.
The wooden deck provides a natural contrast to the concrete around the pool and is the perfect spot to soak up the sun while relaxing on the outdoor furniture. To finish the space, new gardens were installed as well as a new retaining wall and outdoor lighting.
Nicci’s new backyard is a stylish and stunning escape that she absolutely loves. Creative design and superb workmanship enabled Richard and his team to deliver a backyard beyond her dreams and the result is a beautiful pool and entertaining area that looks as if it was always meant to be there.
Richard is thrilled with the result. “It is a spectacular retreat, with high end finishes that provide the wow factor.”
For Nicci, the pool is a dream come true. “It has truly changed my life, and I swim every morning!” she says. “Richard’s service went above and beyond our expectations, and we couldn’t recommend him and the Zones team highly enough.”
Get in touch for a free consultation with your local Landscaping Consultant.
Richard Burge is Landscaping Consultant of Burge Landscaping Ltd, a franchisee of Zones Outdoor Renovations Ltd, doing business in North Shore.
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