Pool & Backyard Design–Build Project in Richmond Hill
Blackforest
Project Overview
The Blackforest project in Richmond Hill (Oak Ridges) was a complete backyard design–build centred around a new swimming pool and organized outdoor living. The goal was to create a durable, low-maintenance environment that functioned well for everyday use while offering comfortable gathering spaces around fire and water.
The project included a new fiberglass pool, large-format patio surfaces, integrated fire and water features, lighting, planting, turf, and supporting infrastructure.
Site Conditions and Constraints
The site offered relatively good access for machinery, which allowed for efficient excavation and installation. Grades were generally favourable, but careful coordination was still required due to the number of services associated with the pool and outdoor features.
Key considerations included:
-
Coordinating pool installation and surrounding hardscape
-
Protecting existing trees during construction
-
Managing multiple utility runs for pool equipment, gas, and electrical
-
Complying with Richmond Hill’s stricter requirements around grading and drainage
Because Richmond Hill requires engineering oversight for work affecting grades, proper planning and approvals were part of the early project stages.
Before Pictures
Design Approach
The design focused on clarity, organization, and material consistency. A long rectangular pool layout was selected because it fit naturally within the proportions of the yard and supported both visual balance and functional use.
Large-format concrete pavers were used throughout the patio and circulation areas to create a clean, unified surface around the pool. The scale of the pavers reduced visual clutter and reinforced the structured layout of the space.
Dedicated zones were created for:
-
Poolside lounging
-
Gathering around the fire feature
-
Circulation and access around the pool
-
Viewing and enjoying water features
The overall layout was designed to feel calm, open, and easy to navigate.
-
Landscape Design-Build
Pool and Infrastructure Coordination
A new fiberglass swimming pool (approximately 40' × 16') was installed as the anchor of the backyard. Custom coping was created to integrate the pool cleanly with the surrounding patio surfaces.
Significant coordination was required for pool infrastructure, including:
-
Pool equipment placement
-
Gas and electrical services for fire and water features
-
Trenching completed early to avoid disruption later in the build
A concrete pad was constructed to support pool equipment, with the client later constructing a cabana to enclose it.
The project was completed during the COVID period, which required flexibility and advance planning due to extended lead times for pool delivery.
Materials, Features, and Execution
Large-format concrete pavers were installed using specialized suction equipment to handle the size and weight of the units safely and precisely. This allowed for accurate placement without excessive manual handling.
Additional features included:
-
A porcelain-tiled fire feature serving as a focal gathering point
-
A porcelain-tiled water feature integrated into the landscape
-
Landscape lighting installed throughout the backyard to support circulation and evening use
Precision work on the fire and water features required extended time on site, with careful cutting, setting, and finishing to ensure clean lines and durable performance.
Planting, Turf, and Finishing
Planting was used to frame the space and provide privacy without overwhelming the hardscape. New planting included:
-
Emerald cedar hedging behind the pool
-
Grasses, hydrangeas, and roses for seasonal interest
-
Integration with existing plant material where appropriate
Turf and lawn areas were installed to balance the hardscape and support everyday use.
Final Outcome
Functionally, the backyard now supports multiple uses—lounging by the pool, gathering around the fire feature, and relaxing near water elements—within a single, organized layout. The space is easy to maintain and comfortable to use throughout the season.
Visually, the completed project presents a cohesive and refined outdoor environment where materials, features, and planting work together to support the architecture of the home.
-
Landscape Design–Build
-
Planting & Softscape
-
Landscape Lighting
-
Hardscape Repairs
Services Featured in This Project
-
Landscape Design–Build
-
Planting & Softscape
-
Landscape Lighting
-
Hardscape Repairs
Project Location
This project was completed in:
{{link:Aurora Landscaping}}
Discussing a Similar Project
Every backyard has its own constraints and opportunities. This project demonstrates how careful planning, early coordination, and disciplined execution can deliver a well-organized pool environment with long-term usability.
If you are considering a pool and backyard project and want to discuss approach or feasibility, we encourage you to reach out early.