An urban setting in the very desirable M-Streets / Greenland Hills section of Dallas, a circa 1920’s cottage was updated to a more modern feel, but needed a landscape to fit. Patrick L. Boyd-Lloyd, APLD, a designer with David Rolston Landscape Architects, worked with the clients to bring some privacy to the front of the house, featuring a wall of windows, and bridge the back of the house to the pool, which is accessed across the driveway.
The covered structure on the back replaced an old wood deck, and is anchored by the intimate outdoor fireplace. To keep the north facing space from feeling dark and claustrophobic, skylights were added to the standing seem metal roof. The concrete driveway was broken up with Oklahoma Flagstone and brick to create more entertaining space and connect the pool with the house. An pile of rocks that was an old fountain for the pool was replaced with Oklahoma ledge-stone and scuppers for a more timeless, updated look. The rich plant pallet is kept to the understated side to act as a simple backdrop, with accents of color popping out. Texture is added with Agaves, Yuccas, and variegated Ginger.
This sleek modern house enjoys beautiful views of White Rock Lake, but siting the pool in the front yard called for screening from passing joggers, bikers and cars. Designed by architect Robert W. Raymond, AIA, the house angles to gather breezes and respect existing trees. The extensive drainage system is designed to be aesthetically pleasing as well as functional, carrying water past the entrance and around the house in several streambeds lined with ornamental grasses.
The landscape accentuates the pool without overwhelming it. Multiple textures from both the plants and stonework gives a feeling of coziness and intimacy while still having open and bright qualities.
The goal of this design was to nestle a brand-new house into an existing traditional Highland Park neighborhood, and make it look like it had always been there. The rear patio was extended to create space for furniture and free movement. The pool is integrated directly with the entertainment area, reflecting light into the surrounding rooms.
A new circular drive and front walk orientation created a lovely formal lawn to set off this traditional house. In the back yard, the 70’s brown brick pool patios were renovated and the pool re-plastered to give the private area a quiet, classic look, while new plantings soften the hard surfaces.
