Transforming Backyards: A Montgomery, Ohio Family’s Collaboration with Werbrich’s Landscaping
When the owners of this established residence in Montgomery, Ohio, considered renovating their backyard, they were somewhat ambivalent. Their yard, characterized by unique elevation changes, presented a challenge. The question loomed: Could it house a pool seamlessly? Guiding them through these uncertainties was Werbrich’s Landscaping’s seasoned Landscape Architect, Josh, supported by the pragmatic expertise of Werbrich’s Project Manager, Tyler. The Dream and the Design: Josh’s Vision
Josh’s approach was rooted in visualization. To ensure the homeowners could truly understand the transformation, he crafted a detailed 3-D model alongside a bird’s eye view in black and white. These tools weren’t just instruments of design; they offered clarity, ensuring the homeowners could envision the transformation and instilling in them the confidence to proceed. At the core of Josh’s design was the exquisite fiberglass pool from Imagine Pools – The Illusion 35, draped in the captivating Seaside Sky color. This wasn’t just a pool. Josh envisaged it as an experience. He enhanced it with LED lights, a heating system, and saltwater chlorination. The decision to place lights on the pool’s side facing away from the house was intentional. As Josh poignantly described, “From the patio and the house, the pool appears to glow, creating a magical ambiance.”
Beyond the pool, Josh’s design wove in additional elements to complement the existing structure. Pavers were laid, retaining walls constructed, and steps added to mesh seamlessly with the already existing deck and outdoor fireplace. Always considerate of the homeowner’s input, Josh involved the homeowners at every decision juncture, ensuring their preferences and vision remained central to the project’s trajectory. Even the homeowners’ dog was taken into consideration.
“We created a path for him by one of the planter boxes with oversized, irregular Indiana limestone rocks for him to walk on to get from that level down to the pool level,” stated Josh.
Execution Excellence: Tyler’s Touch
With the design blueprint in place, Tyler stepped in to maneuver the physical transformation. His challenges were manifold. The yard’s configuration, bound by the house, deck, property lines, and setback limits, demanded meticulous planning. The property’s deep end, with a drainage easement by the creek, added another layer of complexity. Coupled with Montgomery’s stringent codes, this could be described as a “meticulous puzzle.”
Tyler and his team from Werbrich’s Landscaping were undeterred. They confidently navigated through the complexities. As Tyler proudly mentioned, “Our pools are set on compacted gravel bases, ensuring stability and longevity.” The transformation also necessitated the demolition of some existing structures, including a sidewalk and an old stone wall, to align with Josh’s design vision.
Tyler’s emphasis on collaboration and transparency echoed throughout the project. He was candid about costs, ensuring no surprises. And this commitment wasn’t just financial. As he stated, “Design is not an afterthought for us. We’re invested in creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional.”
A Shared Dream Realized
While the expertise of Josh and Tyler was instrumental, the heart of the project remained the family’s vision. The owners reflected on their objective, “We wanted our home to be the place to be.” To that end, their children were also involved in the decision-making process, underlining that the project was not just about aesthetics but also about fostering family moments and creating amazing memories along the way. The installation day evolved into a community celebration. Navigating the pool truck with its crane, which ultimately lifted the pool up and over the house, through the cul-de-sac was no
small feat. In a gesture of camaraderie and gratitude for neighbors’ cooperation in keeping the street clear, the homeowners offered hot dogs and beer, turning a logistical challenge into a memorable neighborhood gathering.
The final backyard is a testament to dreams realized. It’s more than a renovated space. It embodies the collaborative spirit of homeowners and professionals, the harmonization of design and execution, and the magical blend of aesthetics and function.
Materials and Processes:
Reaching the finish line in landscaping requires meticulous planning and a series of detailed appointments. Among the crucial design elements and products selected were pavers for the main field in Granite Fusion and for the soldier row in Dark Charcoal. Specifically, the products employed were Unilock Beacon Hill Flagstone 6cm in Granite Fusion and Unilock Holland Premier 6cm in Dark Charcoal. Additionally, the retaining walls were skillfully crafted using Alan Block Classic, finished in a rich Stone Creek Color.
The transformation of this backyard commenced with the removal of trees to facilitate crane access. This was followed by the construction of the upper retaining wall, simultaneously setting up essential pool utilities. With the groundwork in place, the pool installation took center stage. Once completed, attention shifted to building the lower retaining wall, after which pavers were meticulously laid around the pool and terrace. With the foundational structures set, landscaping and lighting added vibrancy and ambiance to the scene. Ensuring safety and aesthetic appeal, a fence and railing were then installed. The final touches were applied with sodding and mulching, encapsulating the backyard’s new look.
In essence, this family’s backyard transformation, guided by Josh’s vision and executed by Tyler’s expert team, stands as a beacon of Werbrich’s Landscaping’s dedication to turning dreams into tangible realities.
“We care about our reputation and are in it for the long haul,” emphasized Josh. “We communicate to our customers to the greatest extent possible, are upfront about our costs, and give our crews an excellent set of instructions by which to build. We never skimp on design and take every project seriously.”
