Family Ties
Stamped Concrete | Jacuzzi | Outdoor Kitchen | Fiberglass Pool | Privacy Plantings
Visions of the family all collected under one roof inspired the design of this property in Grand Beach, Michigan. All grown up now, the clients wanted a place to hang out with their adult kids and their significant others. The space accomplishes this well by generously embracing outdoor living with plenty to fill the long summer days.
Project Description
Upon purchasing the property, plans began immediately to make this space a family gathering hub. The first priority involved moving the septic from the backyard to the front yard to allow for a pool. This required a new retaining wall in the front yard to accommodate the septic field. Native dune grass was re-established after the work for a low maintenance, water-wise landscape solution above the field.
From the start, there were several existing landscape features analyzed for the new plan. Things to be removed included a dog run, fire pit, sandbox and some decking. The larger patio space in the backyard was a textured concrete. We were able to keep a good portion of it and incorporate it into the new patio design. The new patio was poured and skillfully textured to match the old. Another element the clients wished to keep was a white pergola which stood north of where the pool was planned. Design solutions incorporated it as a seating area and bar which serves as a shady respite between the pool and outdoor kitchen.
The pool no doubt embodies the heart of the space. Viewed directly from the dining room inside it creates an invitation to the back yard. One enters the pool from the north end with a gracious set of steps that spans the entire end. Opposite the steps on the deep end an auto cover helps to keep it clean of debris.
Behind the pool sits a snug fire pit space defined by a small, arced retaining wall. The wood burning fire pit is outfitted with a gas starter. We designed a tabletop that fits over the fire pit making it multipurpose and increasing the spaces use in the hot summer days when a fire is unwelcome.
Another favorite spot is the hot tub which is nestled near the kitchen and partially sunken. This gives it a cozy feel inside the surrounding landscape. It is the host of many late into the night conversations!
The outdoor kitchen consists of a grill, griddle, sink, refrigerator, wine cooler, ice maker and trash bin. Granite countertops with wavy grays and whites provide a weather-wise workspace. The Werever cabinetry is weatherproof and a great low maintenance solution for their storage needs.
The days end and begin on the property with soft hues of warm light provided by the landscape lighting. Trees are accented and walking paths are illuminated to provide safety and moodiness. Driveway in grade lights help to make vehicular coming and going more comfortable. It’s the perfect invitation to this Michigan getaway.