Vella & Associates
Orange, Calif.

Vella and Associates is a national award winning, full service landscape architectural firm providing professional services throughout Northern and Southern California since 1973. Principal: Carl Vella

Agle Residence, Lemon Heights, Calif.
The Agle residence, located in Lemon Heights, Calif., has a massive rock waterfall that was created by taking advantage of the accommodating slope. Although the designer put the existing pool to use, the challenge was to incorporate it into the new design. The designer added an elevated seating area with a retaining wall and a wood deck that is carved out of the slope next to the waterfall. This provides a reverse overview of the pool and entertainment area. The backside of the pool is elevated at the base of the waterfall to allow water flowing from the falls to cross an exposed aggregate walkway, creating a secondary waterfall into the pool. It is the perfect area for entertaining and an extraordinary view from inside and outside the home.

Shah Residence, LaCanada Flintridge, Calif.
The pool wall is covered with blue, turquoise, clear and white one-inch sq. glass tiles. Stainless steel pipes from the wall pour water into the pool. Fire pots on raised pedestals have water weirs. There’s a swim-up bar, a raised 10-person spa and a raised gas fire pit. A secluded staircase leads up to the rose garden patio.

Hines Residence, Yorba Linda, Calif.
Landscape design elements have been arranged to take full advantage of the incredible view that stretches from Disneyland fireworks by night, to Catalina Island by day. The site design has several deck levels, all of which overlook the large salt water, Pebble Tech infinity pool. The upper level main terrace, perfect for dinning or dancing, is located next to the Mediterranean fountain. The design includes a built-in granite counter BBQ and rock waterfall with access to the water slide. Steps wrap around the fountain and lead down to the middle level where chaise lounges invite guests for poolside drinks and relaxation. The lower level patio is immediately adjacent to the pool’s infinity edge spillway and separates it from the lawn area. A tennis-court-sized sports court, complete with baseball batting cage, a half-court basketball area and a grass volleyball court occupy the lowest level.