MARCH/APRIL 2010
An elaborate, natural-looking pool is the main landscape feature of this wooded, nearly six-acre property in Chantilly, Virginia. Landscape architect Chad Talton of Surrounds Landscape Architecture + Construction, Inc., was tasked with providing a spacious entertaining area and a pool big enough to swim laps. The property was largely flat, but it contained a woodland area with rock outcroppings, which Talton used to sculpt the landscape into a multi-level outdoor living space. Boulders ranging from two to ten tons were craned into place, and a berm on one side of the pool creates a waterfall.
A sizeable terrace provides ample space for entertaining and connects to another terrace with a natural stone fireplace. There was not quite enough space for a standard-length lap pool (75 feet), so a swimming jet was installed on one side of the pool along with a spa area. The main challenge, says Talton, was to “keep it natural, to match the environment of a woodland, rural setting.”
The patios are made of pavers, while the pool decking and paths are Pennsylvania bluestone. Japanese maples, evergreens, ornamental grasses, geraniums, Catmint and other perennials offer color and interest throughout the year.
AWARD: Grand, Outdoor Living Area (Design/Build). LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE: Chad Talton; PROJECT MANAGER: John Peer, Surrounds Landscape Architecture + Construction, Inc., Sterling, Virginia. POOL INSTALLATION: Town & Country Pools, Inc., Springfield, Virginia.
**Out of the array of interior design magazines, Home and Design magazine stands out as a primary idea source for luxury home designs and landscape design ideas. Wonderful visuals of inspired décor and lush landscapes are combined with expert advice to provide a fundamental reference point for bringing amazing home interior design ideas, and outdoor spaces to life.