The Vision
This property offers a serene, natural feel with large, established trees and a beautiful lake backdrop. As you walk into the space, you quickly notice the placement of a natural, organic-shaped pool. The selection of this pool shape was intentional, chosen to soften the hard elements. The pavement materials selected were mixed to create additional interest in the various elevations. Large-format pavers were used on the upper patio spaces, walkways, and steps leading to the pool area, and also to add interest around the pool in small conversation nooks.
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The simplistic pool deck was selected to keep guests safe when traveling around the pool while in use, but also to honor the natural setting without creating visual distress. The redesigned deck was completed with new composite decking, decorative metal railings, and a waterproof under-deck system that allowed for a wood ceiling, can lights, and fans to be placed below — creating much-needed living space sheltered from the sun and elements. The grand staircase was placed to allow access from both the drive and the lower living space to the upper deck for efficient flow.
The completed space is accented by natural stone boulders, native plant materials, and lighting that accents the space above and around for elegant and functional evening entertainment.
Project Details |
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| Features | Poolscape Pavers Composite Deck Landscaping Lighting |
| Location | Indianapolis, IN |
Design Challenge
The homeowners met with the BPI landscape architecture team and asked them to help create a space for their family to enjoy and make lasting memories in. They wanted to fix their deck that was failing, adding functional living spaces and a pool for their family to enjoy. The property has a very natural setting, they asked our team to honor the landscape by nestling the design into the site and selecting materials that would complement its surroundings.
Design Solution
The BPI landscape architecture team used a collaborative approach while designing this unique space. Our team quickly determined that we should take advantage of the natural terrain to nestle the pool into the grade and allow for several individual spaces to flow together using these natural grade changes. The new deck was expanded to create additional living space off the upper level of the house, off the kitchen and living room, while also providing a covered living space below with views of the new pool. The main staircase was designed to allow for pedestrian traffic flow into the covered living space and for efficient access to the pool and the lawn areas.
The materials selected pay homage to the natural setting, both in color tones and textures. The large format pavers have a natural rock texture, and the simple concrete around the pool was selected to allow your eye to focus on the reflection of the water and natural wooded backdrop. The usage of natural stone and boulder outcropping to accent the native landscape plantings adds further natural elements in the design.
The lighting surrounding the pool is achieved using decorative cedar elements and light fixtures hidden in the landscape to accomplish that wow factor in the evening.
Flow in Form and Function
A freeform pool anchors the space, surrounded by tiered hardscaping and curved steps that guide movement and create flow. Bistro lighting ties it all together, extending the experience from day to night.
The natural setting for this project was truly majestic. I am proud of how our team was able to accomplish our client’s goals of adding additional living and entertaining spaces for their family, while honoring the natural setting. I believe the finished product is truly a work of art and leaves the natural landscape around it as the true star.
J.D. Durst
CEO/Chief Design Officer
Design on a
New Level
This custom composite deck turns a steep slope into a standout feature. Integrated lighting guides you to the pool below, while the covered lounge creates a year-round space to gather and unwind.
Having worked with BPI on a prior project, I decided to use them again on this backyard makeover.
The BPI team took the time to understand the vision and helped think through what would work best for my family’s needs. Our property has a naturally woodsy, serene feel that we wanted to preserve, and BPI delivered beautifully on that goal. The finished result enhances our outdoor space while maintaining the peaceful, natural atmosphere we love.
The BPI team was a pleasure to work with. Their communication was solid, and they were consistently responsive to questions and concerns. I highly recommend BPI to anyone seeking thoughtful design and reliable execution.
Marilyn Sleppy
Homeowner
Where Design Meets Nature
Strategic plantings, natural stone, and a layered lighting plan bring softness and depth to the space—creating a seamless transition between structure and surroundings.
Materials Used
Large Format Pavers
Composite Decking
