Water and Flame in Mechanicsville

This backyard was envisioned during the home’s construction, with a build contract signed shortly after the homeowners moved in. Their goal: a fully automated outdoor space that blended so seamlessly with the new home, it would feel as though it had come with the keys.

The design process moved quickly, unfolding in just two rounds of fully estimated drawings thanks to the homeowners’ clear vision for layout and budget. With most materials selected to match the home’s exterior, the design focus centered on the pool plaster and tile, along with a few pool house finishes where the homeowners opted for a fresh departure from their interior palette.

Construction began in November 2024, and despite harsh winter weather and a rainy spring, Outdoor Dreams delivered on schedule — finishing in June, perfectly timed for the warm weather and a full swim season.

POOL / SPA Finished in Cool Blue Diamond Brite plaster with Aquabella’s Balboa tile, the pool and spa are equipped with automatic covers, saltwater chlorination, and industry-leading automation from Hayward’s OmniLogic. The pool includes an expansive tanning ledge, wrap-around bench, dual entry points, and fire bowl fountains by Concrete Commander.

HARDSCAPE The patio and pool deck feature clean brushed concrete to match the home’s driveway and walkways, while the walls, pillars, and spa facade use brick to match the foundation. Thermaled bluestone treads are used for the pool and spa coping and pillar caps.

POOL HOUSE The pool house includes a full bath, kitchenette with pass-through bar, and a living room with a gas fireplace. To create an open feel and connect the interior to the pool area, collapsible glazed walls with integrated doors wrap the living space, while an automatic pull-up window transforms the pass-through bar into a stunning centerpiece.

ELECTRICAL & AUTOMATION This stunning space was further elevated by Dwell Home Services, Outdoor Dreams' sister company. Led by master electrician Casey Milliron, Dwell handled all pool and pool house electrical work, along with the outdoor heating, audio, televisions, and complete automation for both the pool and pool house.