Halfmoon, NY
When homeowners in the Capital Region dreamed of adding a backyard pool, they were met with skepticism. Their sloped, tree-filled yard presented a major challenge for any pool installation. That’s when Blue Spruce Landscape & Design teamed up with River Pools of the Capital Region to tackle the complex excavation and redesign the space. Together, they created a multi-tiered outdoor oasis that transformed this once dark and largely unusable backyard into a functional and beautiful retreat.
The result? A breathtaking, two-tiered backyard that exceeded the client’s expectations—complete with more jackhammering than anyone could have predicted!
Key Project Highlights:
Although the steep, upward slope and dense trees made it hard to envision a usable outdoor space, Blue Spruce Landscape & Design completely transformed the landscape. They began by turning the homeowner’s vision into a detailed 3D plan, giving the family a clear picture of the final design. Once the concept was approved, the team set to work on bringing it to life.
The first challenge was managing the dramatic slope, which required excavating five feet of earth and creating two distinct tiers to divide the backyard into separate zones for lounging and swimming. Engineered retaining walls were crucial to this design, ensuring stability while also serving as elegant backdrops for lush plantings of Blue Spruce trees, colorful shrubs, and flowering plants. This thoughtful combination of hardscaping and softscaping added depth, texture, and visual interest to the landscape.
The upper tier would be dedicated to the family’s recreation and relaxation, featuring the pool they desired. It now featured increased sunlight and panoramic views of the newly landscaped surroundings. Ample space around the pool ensures comfortable circulation and provides dedicated areas for lounging and entertaining. Meanwhile, the lower tier offers a more intimate setting with a vibrant mix of textures and colors, creating a dynamic and visually engaging landscape that changes with the seasons.
This project prioritized functionality and privacy. Strategically placed Arborvitaes along the property line provide a natural privacy screen, while Norway Spruces add a touch of grandeur and further enhance the sense of seclusion. The result is a truly transformative outdoor living space that exceeded the homeowner’s expectations, turning a once-unusable backyard into a private retreat perfect for family enjoyment and relaxation.
