Improvements to this Texas hill country ranch estate included new hardscape, plantings, and site amenities, centered on a new infinity edge pool and spa, positioned to take full advantage of the residence's expansive view.

The exterior renovation of this ranch estate in Bosque County, Texas, had an existing benefit other remodels lack – stunning panoramic views of the Texas countryside and an adjacent skeet field. The homeowners decided to take greater advantage of their picturesque site with an infinity-edge pool and spa, which would be the focal point of the larger redesign.

The client's request for an infinity-edged pool was a challenge for the design team due to the absence of significant on site grade changes. A buildup of the pool deck to match the grade of the ranch house's finished floor, however, established enough usable infrastructure to install the pool, and create a drop-off for the infinity edge. The spa was also constructed with a 360-degree infinity edge, which added additional flair to the outdoor living area. The result was a comfortable transition and flow from the house to the pool's spacious decks, outdoor kitchen and living area.

Rain chains were installed to sidestep the need for a traditional metal downspout. Seasonal plantings grow in raised stone planters, and native limestone step pads were placed to frame panels in the concrete bedding areas and define transitions from the pool to the multiple auto court areas. Boulders were placed to help transition grading and erosion control.

Water from the pool's edge flows into a concealed return basin beneath a stainless steel grate, which was faced with river rock. The stone selection for the pool, tile, plaster, and deck colors were all selected with the client's specific input to complement the architecture and surrounding landscape. The walkways and stone deck banding were formed by Austin Masonry Construction, Inc. using an Oklahoma Flagstone pattern.

The exterior face of the pool also incorporated Oklahoma Chop Builders Block in a unique hidden chop pattern. The homeowners selected glass tile in a coin-shaped pattern, and the pool was waterproofed with a "Pebbletek" textured earth tone. The concrete deck was poured with leave-outs for a stone banding in a diagonal pattern. The return basin is surrounded by native Texas plantings.

A custom made gate and an assortment of plantings transformed a barren concrete entryway into a lush outdoor space. The homeowners are avid gardeners, and were very involved with the selection of plants for the property.

The pool and home have views and vistas from all angles and directions. To avoid an unsightly utility area, the pool equipment was placed in a subterranean vault, nestled into an area surrounded by shrubs and other plantings. Native and ornamental plantings were also added to create variety and ensure the utility area was obscured.

The spa has multiple functions, and operates as an overflowing 360-degree zero edge cauldron and can also have its water level lowered for heat and therapeutic uses or a nice soak on a cold, clear night at the ranch. Frost-proof tile was installed in the spa for particularly cold Texas nights.

Pool equipment was built into a subterranean utility vault, tucked away in a landscaped planter bed that conceals the view from guests.

The boulder rocks, mined from a friend's ranch nearby, complemented the raised stone planters, which incorporate seasonal plantings at the client's request. The placement of the boulders creates a transitional grade, where native limestone step pads circulate from the pool to the auto court areas.

The homeowners are avid gardeners in their own right, and desired a wide variety of native and adapted plant material, punctuated with select ornamentals, to create a lush effect in the landscape. The trees selected for installation are native to the central Texas region, and were specifically placed to frame the views of the landscape and countryside. LED lighting was installed to enhance the exterior architecture, and mercury vapor tree lights create a softened moonlight effect in the gardens around the property.

The infinity pool edge drops water into a concealed return basin, covered by a stainless steel grate. Native river rock was added over the top of the grate for a more natural surface.

The Rainbird sprinkler system is provided its water source from a large above ground cistern, which was updated with matching stone veneer and a metal roof to continue the existing hardscape palette. Rain chains were selected to hang from the guttering, which allowed the owners to eliminate the standard "ugly" downspouts.

The entire project was fortunate to have a cohesive and collaborative design and construction team. The landscape architect-designer and engineer for the project was m+m+a-Mycoskie McInnis and Associates, Inc. Site Planning Site Development, Inc. performed the pool construction, landscape, lighting and irrigation installation, and the stonework was performed by Austin Masonry Construction, Inc.

Native boulders and tree Yaupon Holly plantings near the outdoor kitchen and auto court create a natural screen and visually appealing view.

The success of this project was ultimately made possible by the vision, input and oversight of the homeowners. They were receptive to different ideas, resourceful during design and construction, and added quality amenities that included gates, fencing, an outdoor kitchen and stonework construction beyond the landscape architect's work area.

The cistern is the source of water for the property's irrigation system. It was updated during this project to include a stone veneer and metal roof to continue the architectural scheme.

Plant Palette
Drive Throats:

The pool deck was built up to match the finished floor of the ranch house to make up for the lack of significant on site grade changes. Lantana plantings and pool furniture add complementary combinations of color to the area.

Aspidistra and Liriope were planted around a 150-year-old live oak already on site. A stone bench was added for enjoying the views and vegetation.