At this residence in Laguna Niguel, Calif., Urban Landscape reconstructed the existing pool as a four-sided negative edge pool by removing the wall faces of the old structure and raising them by 18 inches. In order for the water to flow equally and properly, the levels had to be absolutely precise. Iridescent glass tile and fiber optic lights accentuate the pool. The project also included a backyard outdoor living space beneath a 600-square-foot structure that features heated cooking and dining areas.

 

The pool deck consists of etched limestone tile that was imported from Italy. The ground cover in between the limestone pavers is Dymondia margaretae. The raised walls of the pool are tiled with beveled mosaic glass from Walker Zanger. On either side of the pool are "tiny tower" Italian Cypress trees.

Custom fiber optic lights were installed throughout the entire rim flow spill channel.

The front yard was updated as well with a private courtyard accented by its own water feature: a weeping wall whose face is lined with Oceanside Glasstile eight-inch bars (inset), which cost around $100 per square foot. Kichler recessed copper lighting uplights the strawberry trees on either side of the water feature.

One significant challenge a pool builder often faces is addressing the complexity of remodeling an existing pool structure. The Kuba residence was no exception. Creating a one-of-a-kind, rim flow, negative edge pool out of an existing structure was a task we addressed with an aesthetic eye as well as with a technical focus.

When the Kuba family came to Urban Landscape, they had a unique need. Their picturesque residence, located in the welcoming hills of Laguna Niguel, Calif. had a negative edge pool but the technology and design was dated, having been built in the late 1990s. They wanted to not only address their dissatisfaction with the existing pool, but to also transform their outdoor living space with a fresh look that would complement their stunning view.

Engineered to Impress
First, since we faced having to work around an existing pool structure with a number of complex design elements, my business partner Nels Griffin and I had to tackle the issue of engineering. The old negative edge pool presented some daunting challenges. We began by blowing out the pool wall faces to refit much of the support. Then, we stuck to our design vision, with no compromise, and raised the existing rim some 18 inches around the circumference of the pool. That alone was demanding but my goal was to create more than just a reiteration of the negative edge pool that already existed; I wanted an immense rim flow pool to be the focal point of their outdoor space.

With these pools, there are some technicalities that transcend the issues of a typical negative edge pool. At 15 feet by 35 feet, the challenge of the Kuba pool was to maintain uniformity of flow across the pool face and rims. In order to achieve the consistent "sheet of glass" rim flow look and constant flow on all edges, we had to bring our A-game. Working with laser levels, my team, with decades of experience in engineering and building exquisite pools, was able to accomplish the impossible. Once the technical aspects were complete, I wanted to be sure all that work was complemented with excellent design elements. On the pool's walls and top edges, we applied a beautiful and unique beveled mosaic glass tile from Walker Zanger. Throughout the entire rim flow spill channel, the team installed custom fiber optic lighting. This unique feature creates a glistening effect at dusk and dark, which gives the appearance of a floating sheet of water. That, and the exquisite color of the mosaic tile, provides a finished product that is a stunning focal point of the residence. Although this was the highlight, our work did not stop there.

Bringing the Pool to Life
Rarely is a rim flow or negative edge pool complete without breathtaking landscape design. At the Kuba residence, we brought together our design team to build not only a distinctive outdoor living space, but also a front entryway and courtyard that was inviting and impressive.

For the living area, we began with a premier etched limestone paving product imported from Europe. The hardscape was highlighted with intermittent softscape and surrounded by many hybrid, handpicked plants. Around the fire pit sitting area, we used wonderful stone mosaic pebbles to create a texture that complements the limestone. Finally, in the "pot" water feature, we lined the inner pool with the same glass mosaic found on the negative edge pool.

An Inviting Front
When you arrive at the Kuba Residence, you immediately feel welcome. The transformation of the front area made the entire house a showcase with its glowing Venetian plaster finish. What was once a front walkway has been repurposed as a cozy courtyard that is accented by a weeping wall water feature. To complete the calming effect, we added softscape features that diminish the hard lines of the driveway. It is now unified with selected trees and plants that add privacy and just the right touch of character.

In the end, the Kuba Residence is a striking feature of the Laguna Niguel community. From its inviting entryway and courtyard to its distinctive pool out back, the Kuba home is a testament to the artisan talent I am fortunate to work with everyday at Urban Landscape.