A Property Reborn

It is easy to fall in love with natural wooded surroundings found in the hills of Nissequogue. Dense woods provide the privacy and seclusion offered by the large properties. Over time some of these residences find themselves in need of transformation. An update into modern living. One such property was facing that very challenge. The need for change was evident for both the house itself and its surroundings. The original profile for the design team was a simple pool area renovation. What occurred soon thereafter was a complete property transformation.

The design team’s original task was simple. Create a new usable pool area. New pool installation of a large lagoon style was already being planned. The request was to open up the space and connect the living / dining areas with the pool area. Needs included a large outdoor space for entertaining, lounging areas, casual living areas, and open lawn space for games. The idea of a future pool cabana was also suggested. Color and texture were important due to the lack of character existing on the property before. Several challenges lay ahead to what appeared to be a straight forward project. The existing pool area was surrounded by an existing estate style fence. A large mass of old concrete was encasing the pool. The new pool was designed to remain in that general area, but the removal of the existing pool created problems for the installation of the new pool due to the integrity of soils after excavation. Pilings were used to support the pool walls on the new build. Drainage of the new open space was a critical factor in the design. Providing proper run off areas such as lawns and sub-surface drainage elements is necessary in the design of such a large project. The planning and development is critical to the success of such an undertaking. Working closely with local zoning and permitting boards, several meetings were required before receiving approval on final layout.

The area was re-imagined to have flowing lines and open spaces. Areas of interest including a raised spa area and fireplace were introduced. Spaces once claimed by wood lines were opened up into lawn areas. Plantings of texture and color were to be introduced to add interest to the bland wooded edges. Once the planning was done, work could begin. During that time the homeowner began an aggressive remodeling of the home’s exterior. This also included the building of a new garage and the new proposed pool cabana.

Choices of paving stones with red hues and natural style cultured stones were chosen. A large outdoor kitchen was created for group entertaining. A casual fireplace area was built off of the main interior living space. The raised spa area provides interest with sheer descents and spa spillover. The pool cabana area complete with outdoor shower and entertaining patio is a perfect accent to the large flowing space and provides a great perspective when looking back toward the newly renovated home. Many elements of design were introduced to this space. But most impressive has to be the way the space comes to life in the evening. The use of lighting in both functional and accent settings is truly amazing.

What was once a bland and washed out site, is now vibrant in both colors and textures. Previously segmented spaces are now open and flowing. Edges are bordered with planting which will provide color throughout the seasons. Bland concrete has been replaced with colorful pavers and accent bands. The extensive renovation to the home has brought it all together. Truly making this A Property Reborn