Creekside Colonial Backyard Update and Details

Our Work | October 1, 2024

We’re thrilled to share that our big backyard project is almost complete! Over the past few months, we’ve been working hard to prepare every space for the design details we can’t wait to reveal. Like any major project, there have been a few surprises along the way, but the key to success is always the team you have by your side. We feel incredibly fortunate to have an amazing group of individuals guiding us through every step.

One of the standout teams we’ve worked with is from Endless Pools. From day one, they’ve been quick to answer all of our questions and have expertly guided us through both the selection and installation process. Preparing the site for our in-ground installation was the first major step, and thanks to Endless Pools, we had all the information we needed to get it right.

We started by excavating a large hole, then built a strong foundation reinforced with rebar. A layer of concrete was poured over the top to ensure the spa stays securely in place over time. We also left a few feet of clearance on all sides to allow easy access to any part of the unit if needed.

Once the spa was delivered by Spa Depot, our contractor took extra care to ensure the space around it had the proper support to accommodate pavers right up to the edge. This involved custom-made steel brackets paired with 1.5” square steel support beams running across them. This sturdy structure allowed us to lay pavers on top of the beams, ensuring that even with foot traffic, the ground beneath would remain stable.

With this type of setup, you can run nearly any material right up to the spa. We opted for a mix of 30 x 30 concrete pavers and artificial turf, which adds a touch of traditional charm to our yard. We couldn’t be happier with the way it turned out!

We’re beyond excited to start using the spa regularly! We’ve already tested it out a few times, and it’s safe to say we’re loving the experience. Our kids are absolutely in heaven and beg to use it every day. It’s quickly becoming the highlight of our backyard, and we can’t wait to make countless memories in our new E2000 Endless Pool swim spa for years to come.

Not only has it been an incredible addition for relaxation, but the versatility of the E2000 allows us to use it for everything from low-impact exercise to just cooling off after a long day. Whether it’s a quiet morning swim or an evening soak under the stars, this spa will be at the heart of so many family moments.

In addition to the spa, we’ve been hard at work on several other design features for the yard. When we finished our basement a few years ago, we collaborated with Stoneworld Supply to choose the perfect stone blend for our kitchenette wall. They custom-created the Jade Stone Blend for us, and it has since become a favorite among our clients and followers. I knew I wanted to incorporate that same stone somewhere on the exterior.

From the day we built our house, I dreamed of adding a stone chimney, though I wasn’t sure it would ever become a reality. Fortunately, we found First Class Fireplaces to extend our existing interior fireplace bump-out and transform it into a two-story stone chimney. Since the gas line was already easily accessible, we decided to include a small outdoor fireplace in the design, along with a gas lantern for added ambiance. This addition has brought so much character to our outdoor space, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings.

Another key goal for our yard project was to transform our existing concrete patio into a beautiful pavered space. Initially, we considered demolishing the concrete and starting fresh with pavers, but after some thought, we realized it would be far more cost-effective—and entirely feasible—to install the pavers directly over the existing concrete.

For the patio and sunken dining area, we chose Sunroc’s 3-piece cobblestone in graphite, which adds a European country touch while maintaining a timeless feel. The rich texture of the pavers complements the overall design of the yard, creating a seamless transition between different outdoor spaces.

This approach not only saved us on demolition costs but also minimized the disruption to our project timeline. Now, the patio is not just functional but an inviting space where we can gather for outdoor dining, host friends, or simply enjoy quiet family moments. In the next few weeks we’ll be sharing the grand reveal so stay tuned!

*In compliance with FTC guidelines, please be aware that we are working in collaboration with Endless Pools. All opinions expressed in relation to this product are my own.