Winter is the perfect time to start thinking about taking your backyard pool area to the next level. It doesn’t have to be a major makeover! You can create an amazing retreat and enhance your pool and spa with beautiful masonry features in Westchester County, NY. Here’s what you need to know!
First, how can masonry do so much to create the perfect staycation-worthy backyard retreat? Well, stone (or faux stone) enhances your outdoor space with a timeless mix of beauty, function, and practicality in ways no other material can match. The combination of visual interest, design options, low maintenance, durability, and value make masonry one of those “I wish I’d done this sooner” additions to your pool and spa area. Here are some ideas to get you started.
1. Permanent shade
As much as we love to soak up the sun, at some point it just becomes too blazing hot and you want to retreat into the shade. But, that shouldn’t mean going indoors! A beautiful pergola set upon masonry pillars will create a luxurious retreat that doesn’t look like a temporary summer fixture (like patio umbrellas). Rather, a pergola is a permanent addition that extends your enjoyment of your outdoor spaces into the off-season as well, and the masonry pillars give it a stately appearance. Add some white string lights and create a festive focal point for both summer and winter parties (think hot mulled wine in a winter wonderland).
2. Water features
Adding even more water to a water playground just makes it that much better! A favorite for everyone is a masonry wall with several Roman-style fountains or sheer descent waterfalls that spill into the pool - kids love swimming under falling water, and the soothing sounds help maintain a tranquil atmosphere. For a sophisticated touch, install a masonry water wall, where the water flows gently over a textured masonry wall, but in a more subtle way than water that is propelled outward. Add a few hanging plants (or install planters into a water wall) for a gorgeous tropical vibe!
3. Fire
Fire and water are opposites, but they pair so well! A gas-fueled fireplace or fire pit is best for the poolside, as there is no mess from firewood (the last thing you want is splinters) or ashes. The flames can be instantly adjusted or turned off for safety. A masonry fire feature lets chilled swimmers warm up quickly. It looks great, and it extends the use of your pool deck into the cold months. And if your fire feature is positioned near the pergola, you’ve got a wonderful year-round outdoor party space, or you’ve got the perfect spot to cozy up with a good book and a mug of cocoa!
Related: 5 MASONRY FIREPLACE IDEAS FOR YOUR BRIARCLIFF MANOR, NY, HOME
4. Privacy
Combine the practicality of privacy with the beauty of masonry. Customize a privacy wall with landscape lighting, built-in planters, built-in seating, niches for artwork, dramatic landscape lighting, climbing vines, and artistic laying patterns. Masonry privacy walls never look as stark and cold as poured concrete walls!
5. Greenery
Bring a touch of sophistication to your pool area with a few strategically placed masonry planters: at the pool entry, or in a row along one side of the pool for chic luxury-spa ambience!
Inspired to use masonry around your pool? Call us for a free consultation where we can discuss your ideas and help you bring them to life!
Related: 11 THINGS TO ASK WHEN HIRING MASONS IN WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NY