This was another major project for the skilled stonemasons at CountryScape, LLC. A trusted architect friend was working with these wonderful clients on a home renovation, and they were ready to tackle their dated pool area next. The existing pool was a gunite pool, surrounded by a large, poured concrete patio. The space also featured a small pool house with a kitchen and bath, enclosed by an aging fence in need of replacement.
A Vision for Ashfield Stone in Pool Renovation
Having recently incorporated Ashfield Stone inside their home, the clients loved the idea of continuing that natural aesthetic outdoors. They envisioned a complete transformation with:
A new Ashfield Stone patio with large-format flagging
A custom outdoor kitchen and grill station
A new Ashfield Stone fire pit
A redesigned fence layout to complement the space
Preparing for the Pool and Patio Overhaul
Demolition began with removing the old fencing and tearing out the outdated concrete patio. With a clean slate, CountryScape installed essential infrastructure, including new drainage, electrical lines for landscape lighting, and gas lines for the fire pit and outdoor kitchen. Once this prep work was completed, a pool company was brought in to resurface the gunite pool and upgrade the plumbing.
Crafting a Custom Ashfield Stone Patio and Bluestone Coping
With the old concrete gone, the next step was laying a solid base for the new Ashfield Stone patio. The project also called for a new pool coping solution to replace the removed concrete edge. The client opted for bluestone coping with a bullnose finish, offering a softer, more refined look.
Because the gunite pool had a custom shape, creating precise bullnose coping was a meticulous process. The CountryScape stonemasons crafted templates for each coping piece using plywood, ensuring every curve and edge fit perfectly. These templates were sent to a bluestone supplier for fabrication. Once the custom-cut bluestone arrived, our team carefully installed each piece, ensuring seamless integration.
Expert Installation of Ashfield Stone Flagging
Once the coping was in place, the focus shifted to installing the Ashfield Stone patio. Precision was key, as many of the flagstone pieces were extra large, measuring 25-30 square feet each. Using a combination of skid steers, mini excavators, vacuum systems, and expert handwork, the team meticulously positioned each stone to create a tight-fitting, even surface.
To enhance the functionality and beauty of the space, the project also included:
New Ashfield Stone steps leading to the pool house
Ashfield Stone pillars serving as structural posts for the landscape lighting and new pool fence
A custom-built circular fire pit made from Ashfield Stone, featuring a bluestone cap and a propane-powered electric ignition system
Designing a High-End Outdoor Kitchen with Ashfield Stone & Bluestone
One of the standout features of the project was the outdoor kitchen and grill island. Designed to seamlessly blend both Ashfield Stone and bluestone, the kitchen included:
A state-of-the-art gas grill
Stainless steel cabinets and drawers for durability
A bluestone countertop for a polished look
Discreet landscape lighting installed under the counter edges for ambiance
Final Touches: Fencing, Landscaping, and Plantings
To complete the transformation, the builder renovating the pool house constructed a custom cedar pool fence, adding warmth and privacy to the space. Once the hardscaping was finished, CountryScape installed new plantings and a fresh lawn, bringing life and vibrancy to the landscape.
Love Ashfield Stone? Let's Bring Your Vision to Life
If you appreciate the beauty and durability of Ashfield Stone, we’d love to help you bring it into your outdoor space. Whether you’re considering an Ashfield Stone patio, bluestone coping, or a fully customized hardscape, CountryScape is here to make your vision a reality.
Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s start designing your dream outdoor space!