The Clients approached us wanting to add a pool house and retreat space to their backyard. We were able to provide that and much more. In fact, the number of different spaces we were able to create was astonishing given the limited working envelope.

We began by incorporating a negative/infinity edge pool to take advantage of the natural topography. The pool house is situated along the shallow end of the pool and is designed to compliment the existing home and the pool itself. Integration of the structure and pool allows for dramatic interior and exterior effects either from the pool or from inside the structure. You can even catch a game or enjoy a movie on the flat screen TV situated above the fireplace from the comfort of the hot tub which flows over into the pool. This fully enclosed building offers an escape from the elements. The structure was designed with a kitchen, pizza oven, unique bathroom, and an entertainment space with the warmth of a gas fireplace.

A pergola feature follows the radius along the perimeter of the pool offering a shaded space to relax or to traverse to the negative edge side of the pool. This side of the pool features three water jets whose heights can be adjusted for any occasion and sound effect. Other spaces include a formal garden area complete with a fountain, a campfire pit to warm up to, and a gated entry featuring a couple palms shipped from the South as a seasonal accent.

This landscape improvement project became a realization once the client purchased an existing flat lot to the west of their home. The client gave us free reign on the scope of the project. Their only input was that they were not interested in a pool and they would like something rustic in character.

We began by splitting the site in two by creating a creek with whitewater rapids. This allowed us to change the topography and we chose to place the pavilion on the elevated plateau. There are two ways to access the plateau. One can meander over the Amish bridge or step over the canyon stone slabs that are naturally placed to form a staircase across the creek. In designing the structure our goal was to create a space that had a sense of place. A set of design documents/drawings were required to pull permits and have the Amish mill the rough sawn timbers that give the pavilion its form. They are also in keeping with the clients request for an “up north” feeling.

The structure is broken down into two basic components: outdoor living and social enjoyment. The bar top seating offers a nice view of the waterfall and allows one to greet those crossing the bridge. An outdoor surround sound system is incorporated into the structure’s ceiling. Natural stone slab was used to accent the masonry fireplace which added warmth to the space. The homeowners are very pleased with their rustic outdoor environment.

Because this project was located out of state, it required extraordinary communication and coordination in regards to material and timing logistics. The site also provided a challenge because it was very steep and consisted of Carolina red clay. The entire project was completed within 10 days from commencement.


HIGHLIGHTS:
1. Multi-leveled areas cut into a steep hillside over looking a wildlife and bird sanctuary
2. Custom waterfall feature with canyon stone not found in North Carolina
3. Layered paver brick retreat patio expanse
4. Retained hobby and herb cutting garden in natural setting
5. Botanical garden walkways

When I had my first on-site meeting with this client, I brought drawings of a home I was designing for myself. The clients absolutely fell in love with it and the house began construction the following spring. This residence has proven to be a showcase of mine. Friends and family of the client, as well as the neighborhood, have been intrigued with this home since the onset of construction. The home allows ample movement throughout the space and extends itself to the natural setting around it. Great comfort is found in this home.


HIGHLIGHTS:
1. Larger version of home I originally designed for myself
2. ‘Old World’ English style estate home
3. Just over 2,700 square feet open floor plan
4. Vaulted ceilings, large windows, great views
5. Excellent location to offer a sense of place

The homeowner encouraged creativity in the concept design. A waterfall now acts as a stunning greeting when you walk through the front door. The backyard had a great hill and natural foliage to use as a backdrop. The feeling of the old rear yard offered nothing. The client requested a built-in grille to be incorporated to act as a screen to the neighboring yard. My original concept became a showcase for family and friends. My design, management, and communication through this process allowed the homeowner to reconnect with nature. The construction phase was a very delightful experience for the client. Coming home will never be the same for this Washington Township resident.


HIGHLIGHTS:
1. Large undertaking to totally revamp the yard
2. Outdoor barbeque station with seating, limestone counters
3. Outdoor living patio space
4. Waterfall feature nestled into hillside
5. Excellent location to relax and reflect

This project has been designed, refined, and now defined. I am excited to see this project implemented next fall. The scope of work will showcase a pool layered into a steep grade change. Retaining is required and we plan to incorporate a product called Rosetta, which is a man-made outcropping stone engineered in unique sizes and shapes. Also, a fireplace/chimney is to be included under an open-air pavilion that is to be connected to the existing home. The final concept designs and evaluations will be reviewed in the spring of 2009. I will be administrating, coordinating, and scheduling this project from start to finish.


HIGHLIGHTS:
1. Architectural covered fireplace patio
2. Custom pool integrated in new landscape setting
3. Outdoor living patio space
4. Water wall feature
5. Seclusion and privacy to become an important element to yard

While meeting with the homeowner on site this past winter, my initial concept upon hearing the client’s objective was to cut the patio into the ground on the opposite side of the site. The outdoor fireplace area has definitely complimented the homeowners yard. Also, this was the first project using Unilock’s new prefabricated outdoor fireplaces. Our scope of work was to integrate the barbeque kitchen area and in-ground pool. A changing station was designed for the area of original concern. This project turned out fabulous. It was a rewarding opportunity to have been able to offer design, management, consultation, and care in creating this environment.


HIGHLIGHTS:
1. Architectural prefabricated fireplace
2. Custom patio integrated into existing landscape setting
3. Partially sinking new patio space into ground with screening

In 2003, while employed at the Architectural Studios of Gerald J. Yurk Associates, I managed, researched, documented, and provided construction documents for the Troy historic church and parsonage project. The church and parsonage are historic remains of the early architecture of this settled area. Both the church and parsonage fall under the categories of historic restoration and rehabilitation provided by the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards. During the preliminary stages, it was discovered that the stained glass windows seemed to be intact. Moving the church and parsonage to the museum site created basements and much needed storage. Also, the relocation of ‘Town Hall’ allowed for the addition of a basement and storage space. Due to its relationship with the other historic structures, this location on the museum site allows for more frequent use and availability of staff for events. The total project budget was estimated around $1,500,000.


HIGHLIGHTS:
1. Preserved and relocated both structures per Troy’s historic preservation program
2. Restored the Troy Methodists Church that was constructed in 1837 (at first the Episcopalian congregation) within the original town of Troy corners
3. Restored the original parsonage (single –family house) that was built around 1870
4. This project propelled me to complete my master’s degree with a concentration in ‘preservation and existing structures’
5. The church became a focal point on the village green with high visibility