Island Escapes

Please click on the picture at left for a larger image.

In the middle of a yard, a circular pool creates perhaps the most common, and most difficult, landscaping challenge. To reduce the island effect, this design places decking along one side of the pool. Besides a spot for lounging, the deck makes entry a breeze.

The decking is conventional
wood, but the contemporary railing adds flair, with curves to mimic the circular shape of the pool. A storage cabinet keeps towels and other poolside necessities nearby. A patio of concrete pavers at ground level adds still more living space.

The remaining periphery of the pool is planted with shrubs that grow large enough to hide the exposed side of the pool.

The plant material around the pool creates a stepped-up progression of heights, leading the eye gradually, rather than abruptly, upward to the level of the pool. Beds and planters also generate ample flower power for a colorful swimming season.

If the pool were removed, the circular void could be paved to create a dining area. An overhead structure, such as an arbor, would provide shade.

1. Redtwig dogwood (Cornus stolonifera, Zones 2–8)
2. Yellowtwig dogwood (Cornus stolonifera ‘Flaviramea’, Zones 2–8)
3. Koreanspice viburnum (Viburnum carlesii, Zones 5–8)
4. Veronica ‘Sunny Border Blue’ (Zones 4–8)
5. Blazing star (Liatris spicata ‘Kobold’, Zones 4–9)
6. Bluesilver fescue (Festuca glauca ‘Blausilber’, Zones 4–8)
7. Lesser periwinkle (Vinca minor, Zones 4–9)
8. Sugar maple (Acer saccharum, Zones 4–8)

Cost Estimate
Plant material ............................$2,000
24-inch concrete steppers..........$300
Stairs.........................................$1,000
Deck..........................................$1,500
Storage structure........................$800
Railing (bent steel) ......................$700
TOTAL MATERIALS..................$6,300
Labor...........................$4,000- $6,000
TOTAL, installed......$10,300- $12,300