Luxury Swimming Pool Design | Afton MN

Unifying the old and new

The yard had some pre-existing amenities, but the space was disjointed and had no "flow." As part of their wish list, the clients wanted the old and new to tie together into one cohesive design. To fulfill their vision, bluestone was used throughout all the outdoor living spaces. Moss Rock veneer stone (the same stone on the home's exterior) was selected for the retaining walls, pool house, and columns. Low-voltage lighting on the masonry walls highlights the colors and texture of the veneer stone.

Bluestone All the Way

Bluestone steps were added closer to the lower-level door for easy access to the patio and game barn. To the east, a second set of steps were added for those approaching from the lake. Keeping with the bluestone theme, we expanded the patio outside the game house to include space for a fire feature and dining table.

Two Relaxing Elements: Fire & Water

Surrounded by comfy chairs and overlooking the lake, the backyard fire table is the perfect place to gather with friends and family and listen to the humming of nature.

Slide the bar to reveal the before and after

Connecting the pool area and the back yard was accomplished with a breezeway. The bluestone walkway leads guests directly through the pool house and into the enclosed pool area.

Overcoming Project Challenges

The clients were adamant about including a pool house, but the city would not permit a third outbuilding on the property. The solution? We connected the pool house to the home with an enclosed walkway. The pool house, built by Yerigan Construction, features a bathroom, two refrigerators, an indoor shower, an outdoor shower, washer/dryer, and storage for poolside furniture, pillows, towels, and toys.

A Sophisticated Softscape Design

For softscape, we used a large mix of colorful perennials and evergreens. Around the pool, a plant palette of Dakota Pinnacle Birch, Mugo Tannenbaum Pine, Boxwood, and Hydrangea were selected for color and privacy, as well as their modern and sophisticated aesthetic.

Upgraded Curb Appeal

A Re-designed front entry that yells "Welcome Home"

As for the front entry, the original landscaping included a typical concrete sidewalk and over-sized beds with random boulders and scattered Hosta. The vibe was very "blah" and did not match the style of the home. The new front entry features a bluestone walkway with seat boulders cut into the corners. Cedar mulch was selected to complement the cedar shakes above the front door. Night lighting “extends” the front entry to the driveway.