Turning a Sloped Lot into a Two-Level Backyard Retreat
Most suburban lots on Long Island are fairly flat, which makes a backyard pool a straightforward build. This East Moriches, NY property was different. The yard dropped away from the house, and the homeowners wanted a luxury pool, a big pool deck and a private place to gather around a fire. Instead of fighting the grade, our designers used it to create two separate outdoor spaces, each with its own feel.
A Raised Pool with a Sheer Descent Waterfall
The upper level is built around the pool. Set at the high point of the yard, it takes full advantage of the views, and water spills over the edge of the pool in a sheer descent waterfall that gives the whole backyard a custom, resort-style look. The pool deck is laid in large-format MSI pavers in a soft gray, which keeps the surface clean and modern and gives the family plenty of room for lounge chairs and dining.
Terraced Retaining Walls and Stone Steps
Getting from level to level is part of the design. Buff-colored masonry retaining walls step down the slope in terraces, and each terrace is filled with plantings that soften the change in elevation. A wide set of stone steps with railings connects the pool level to the lawn below. The warm wall color pairs well with the gray pavers and ties the new hardscape back to the home’s traditional architecture.
A Secluded Fire Pit Patio Below
Down at the lower level, a separate fire pit patio feels tucked away from the activity at the pool. The same large-format pavers carry through, so the two spaces feel connected even though they serve different purposes. The pool area is open and playful, while the fire pit area is quiet and made for long evenings.
Stepping Stones and Landscaping That Tie It Together
Walkways between the spaces use individual pavers set in the lawn with grass between them. It is a softer way to move people around the yard, and it keeps the transition between hardscape and lawn looking natural. Layered landscaping along the walls and a privacy border along the property line finish the project, giving this family a backyard that is luxurious and still easy to live in.
Have a Challenging Yard?
Sloped and uneven lots are some of our favorite projects on Long Island, because the grade gives us room to design something with real depth. If your yard has been holding you back, contact Above All Masonry Design for a free consultation, or browse more of our portfolio.
