A grand vision becomes a reality in this luxurious outdoor family oasis.

The project checklist was substantial, but not out of the ordinary: a covered porch, garage with upstairs bedroom suite, a pool. However the results are anything but ordinary. Thanks to a grand vision by architect Mark White, the right team of professionals, and a lot of hard work, this backyard went from a forgettable asphalt pad to a five-star resort.

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Initially the back of the home’s property was dominated by mature trees, challenging the vision of a grand outdoor space. To create the expansive area the clients desired, the existing trees were removed and the yard was regraded, a task that required over 30 dump trucks of sand and stone compacted in 3” increments, and with each load brought in by skid steer due to the narrow access to the property.

The regrading took months to ensure the soil and stone compacted appropriately while retaining walls were installed to shore up the yard’s multi-level design. All of this required meticulous planning to move and reinstall all of the home’s utilities including plumbing, cable and even the moving and reinstalling of a power pole and transformer by Dominion Power. Special attention was also given to the installation of a drainage and irrigation systems by Collier Companies, as the entire rear of the property would be inaccessible for these utilities once the hardscape, pool, and asphalt were in place.

The centerpiece of this transformation is a stunning gunite pool by Anthony Sylvan Pools, surrounded by extensive, multi-level hardscaping including veneered retaining walls, lush plantings, and a pristine turf field, designed by Marcia Fryer. The outdoor space is further enhanced with carefully designed lighting, including gas lanterns, which creates an intimate and inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings.

The new covered patio features a custom Dryvit wood-burning fireplace, multiple mounted outdoor heaters, a wood ceiling with materials sourced by Wellborn and Wright and a custom crafted mantle. The outdoor kitchen, designed for both beauty and utility, includes a large Wolf grill, sink, refrigerator drawers, ice machine, and a small kegerator, all encased in a custom skeleton wrapped in Dekton material. This durable, stone-like finish was meticulously templated and installed in two phases, ensuring a flawless result.

Inside the home, the process was no less complex, and like the outdoor space, the final product is just as stunning, with the same attention to detail. A new two-car garage was constructed with space above to house a second primary suite, small office and additional bathroom as well as a walk-out sun deck off the bedroom. Marble tile and quartz vanity tops grace the bathroom, complemented by custom cabinetry and built-in closets.

Every last detail was considered by interior designer Dottie Eldridge, including textured grasscloth wallpaper, custom perimeter-bound carpet for the bedroom, and handcrafted wood interior railings.

On the sundeck, custom aluminum rails in a Chippendale pattern coordinate with the fence railings and the new 8-foot motorized gate, provided by Hurricane Fencing, across the new driveway. Dec-tec roofing material was used for the flooring of the sundeck for durability and usability.

A backyard that was once an afterthought is now the center of attention for all the right reasons, adding immeasurable value to the enjoyment of this family’s home.