A CLOSER LOOK AT THE PROJECT
Our team was invited to this Lake George residence to explore the potential of designing and installing a custom water feature in coordination with a pool project already underway. What began as a consultation evolved into a comprehensive landscape design and construction project aimed at enhancing both the functionality and visual appeal of this stunning lakeside property.
Client Goals & Site Needs
During our initial consultation, the homeowner shared several key goals:
- Maximize the 180-degree panoramic views of Lake George, particularly to the north and south.
Create generous patio spaces ideal for entertaining large groups and hosting events.
Enhance privacy around the pool area, especially from neighboring properties.
Seamlessly integrate existing boulder outcroppings into the overall landscape design.
Manage surface water drainage from the driveway and home to protect the pool area.
Maintain a strong visual connection between the upper deck and the pool.
Design a waterfall feature that would flow into the pool, creating both visual impact and ambient sound.
Design & Construction Process
Based on these goals, we developed a preliminary landscape and poolside design that incorporated all client requests and more. The design was reviewed collaboratively, and further refinements were made to enhance the final result.
Key features of the completed project include:
A custom waterfall constructed from large slabs of Corinthian Granite, flowing into the deep end of the pool.
A spacious stone patio positioned to provide unobstructed lake views, surrounded by natural boulders and the granite waterfall for a cozy, secluded feel.
Strategic placement of pool fencing—minimally visible from the main seating and viewing areas while remaining compliant with state safety codes.
Tree thinning and underbrush removal to open up clear views from the upper deck toward the pool and Lake George.
Grading adjustments to direct stormwater runoff away from the pool and entertainment spaces.
Plantings & Finishing Touches
Once the structural and hardscape elements were complete, we installed a diverse and low-maintenance plant palette, including:
Weeping Birch and Weeping Siberian Pea
Climbing Hydrangea and Endless Summer Hydrangea
Miss Kim Lilacs, Purple Coneflower, Black-Eyed Susan, Astilbe
Ground covers like Creeping Sedum and Sedum Autumn Joy
In tandem with the planting, we installed a low-voltage lighting system and an automatic irrigation system to support long-term beauty and functionality. The project was finished with sod and mulch for a polished, natural look.
Project Duration: Approximately 6 weeks
This project is a great example of how thoughtful landscape design can transform a property into a private retreat, maximizing natural beauty and enhancing outdoor living with custom features like integrated waterfalls, elegant stone patios, and seamless water management.
SPECIAL OR UNUSUAL PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED
The site was comprised of significant amounts of bedrock and the only advantageous location for the pool required that it be set in an area significantly lower than the existing driveway. These elements combined to be challenging in how to control water flow.
In addition, this location also resulted in the pool being in full view of the neighbors to the north as well as very close to the driveway. This required careful thought relative to privacy.