The Refuge

A two-tier hillside scenario, in which the client brief was: "retired couple who wishes to entertain and have large family gatherings, a kitchen garden, natives and waterwise plant choices, and an update of the pool and spa."

I asked what the budget was and the answer: "No limit."

Oh ho?! Well, as you wish!

This design converted the 1980's concrete pool into an infinity pool that spills three waterfalls into a narrow wading pool on the lower deck. The first level deck leaves sufficient space for guests while still providing shelter for the master bedroom (bottom left, unmarked). The lower deck is where the party goes. With a Corten steel firepit, adults can enjoy the sunset while children play in the wading pool with its wide man-made boulders and waterfalls from above.

This isn't a backyard -- it's a refuge.

Hand-rendered, Student Work