Outdoor Living Installation

This landscape design/build project in Montclair tells a captivating story of transformation, where a 1920s gunite pool was removed, and the space was reimagined into a stunning outdoor living area. The project required both creativity and precision as we blended elements of history with modern luxury. What once was a 14-foot-deep pool with up to 2-foot thick concrete walls has now become an elegant and functional space, complete with a new pavilion, brick paver patio, outdoor grill and bar area, freestanding hot tub, and a thoughtfully designed landscape.

One of the most unique aspects of this project was the removal of the century-old pool. Its immense depth and thick concrete walls made it a formidable challenge, requiring specialized equipment and strategic planning. Once broken up, the pool was carefully transported off-site and reclaimed as gravel to serve as the base material for the new brick paver patio. This sustainable approach not only honored the site’s history but also contributed to the eco-friendliness of the project.

The design concept revolved around creating an outdoor retreat that offered year-round functionality and beauty. The patio was constructed using Techo-Bloc Blu 60 and Borealis brick pavers, combining both elegance and durability. The earthy tones of the pavers seamlessly harmonized with the home’s architecture, offering a timeless and sophisticated look. The custom-built pavilion, the centerpiece of the design, is more than just a shelter—it is an outdoor living room. The pavilion is equipped with integrated lighting, heating, and a fan, ensuring comfort in all seasons and extending the outdoor living experience well into the night.

In addition, a freestanding hot tub was installed, nestled around a wet-laid masonry wall with natural stone veneer and capped with bluestone treads. This detail was not only aesthetically pleasing but also created a functional and intimate setting for relaxation. The bluestone treads were matched perfectly with the newly constructed landings below each entrance to the home, ensuring continuity in design and material selection.

This project exemplifies craftsmanship at its finest. The masonry work, particularly the custom-built walls surrounding the hot tub, displays exceptional precision and attention to detail. The natural stone veneer and bluestone caps were chosen for their durability and beauty, ensuring that the structure stands the test of time while adding a refined aesthetic to the outdoor space. The brick paver patio, installed with meticulous care, provides a smooth and level surface, creating a welcoming space for dining and entertaining. Every cut, every joint, and every transition from hardscape to softscape was executed with precision, reflecting the high standards of quality for which Sponzilli Landscape Group is known.

An all-new planting scheme was installed to add life, color, and texture to the space. The design incorporated a variety of shrubs, perennials, and trees that provide year-round interest, offering vibrant blooms in spring and summer, and rich textures in fall and winter. The plant selection was carefully curated to complement the hardscape elements, softening the overall look and enhancing the natural beauty of the site. The installation of a new irrigation system ensured that the landscape would thrive, providing optimal hydration to the plantings while conserving water.

A key element of the design was the installation of landscape lighting, which transforms the outdoor space after dark. Low-voltage lighting was thoughtfully positioned to accentuate the pavilion, masonry walls, and hot tub area, creating an inviting glow that enhances the nighttime ambiance. The lighting also highlights the intricate stonework and lush plantings, allowing the beauty of the space to be enjoyed well into the evening.

This Montclair project is a stunning example of how a historic space can be transformed into a modern-day retreat while paying homage to its past. The seamless integration of sustainable practices, custom craftsmanship, and thoughtful design resulted in an outdoor space that is both functional and breathtaking. The unique challenges of the site, from the removal of the old pool to the careful grading of the land, were met with innovative solutions that enhanced the overall design and longevity of the project.

In this project, ensuring a structurally sound and long-lasting foundation for the new patio, pavilion, and custom-built grill and bar stool area was crucial. The site posed significant challenges, including the removal of the original 1920s gunite pool, and careful consideration had to be given to the new construction’s base. By utilizing geogrid and proper base materials, along with precise installation to achieve optimal proctor density, we laid the groundwork for a durable and stable outdoor living space.

Achieving proper compaction was critical for the overall integrity of the project. We adhered to the principles of proctor density, compacting the base material to its optimal moisture content, ensuring that the crushed stone layers were solid and stable. This method of compacting in layers provided the necessary strength to prevent settling, particularly under the weight of the heavy structures like the custom grill and bar seating area.

A key feature of the design is the custom-built grill and bar stool area, seamlessly integrated into the new outdoor space. The grill island, crafted from wet-laid masonry with a natural stone veneer and topped with a custom fabricated granite countertop, offers both functionality and beauty. Paired with a bar stool seating area, this space serves as a focal point for outdoor gatherings. The structural integrity of the foundation beneath this area was paramount, as it needed to withstand the continuous use, as well as the elements, while providing a comfortable and enjoyable setting for entertainment.