My clients in this project wanted their backyard to evoke a feeling of what they coined “Bohemian Chic.” It was challenging in a couple of ways. First of all, midway through the design process, they decided they wanted a swimming pool. Their yard has a relatively steep slope going away from the back of the house. The fence line mirrors that slope. so it was a challenge to figure out where we could place the pool.
Ultimately we decided on a large deck off of the back door that was only a couple of steps down. It visually expands the view from the inside of the house and gives much needed extra living space when the weather is nice.
The deck has steps that lead down to the pool. Because of the slope of the yard, the back end of the pool is elevated and provides the opportunity for another level space for seating. We faced the elevated part of the pool with brick and planted a boxwood hedge to mirror the hedge along the tree-lined back fence.
BEFORE
Off of the bedroom, we built a small matching deck that steps down onto the pool area.
AFTER
Along the back fence, we planted English Laurel standard trees. They are a great way to create instant personality in a yard. With the trunks exposed below and the evergreen glossy leaves, they can be trimmed to form a hedge on stilts effect. With a boxwood hedge at the bottom, the look is timeless and classic.
AFTER
looking back at the house from the lower level 
brick along back of pool with boxwood hedge 
swimming pool
.
As the plants mature the owners are adding their own inspiration…..
The new deck and yard beckons to enter and enjoy.
The yard has matured in the last few years and has become an integral part of their everyday lives. They swim daily, entertain family and friends and enjoy eating out on the deck when the delta breezes blow.