NATURALLY MODERN | NORTH ANDOVER, MASSACHUSETTS

We completed one of our largest projects to date this summer for wonderful clients in North Andover. The overall project scope included a new gunite lap pool, bluestone terraces, pergola, two decks, a large vegetable garden, a front entry overhaul inclusive of a new front stair with covered portico, and plantings. We wanted to share some early photos of the pool area below along with a brief project description.

The pool and surrounding area layout was driven by both wetland buffer and zoning setbacks on the site. A natural, wooded site would serve as the backdrop for the pool area. The pool area is defined by a New England fieldstone retaining wall which doubles as a pool-enclosure fence, preserving sight lines into the woods beyond. Clean, orthogonal lines and centerline axis create a spacial layout that is simple and balanced.

"We deliberately kept the materials simple and classic. I wanted the plane of the pool terrace and surrounding lawn to feel like it was carved into the site. The restricted palette of materials and simplicity of lawn up to the pool edge doesn’t compete with the woodland backdrop. There is a clear definition of what was man-made and what was natural," said Russell Stott, firm partner and landscape architect.

A bluestone, chaise-lounge terrace anchors one side of the lap pool, while opposite, a pergola provides both shade and a sense of enclosure at the poolside lounge. A transparent fence along with plantings consisting of ornamental grass and native shrubs will fill nicely next year. A new deck off of the living space overlooks the entire pool area. The space comes alive at night; equipped with low-voltage lighting in the walls and pergola.