When designing the outdoor spaces for their home in Vienna, VA, the homeowners’ guiding desire was that it be a fun, family space that would incorporate their love of entertaining with their active lifestyle. The challenge for the team, assembled and managed by residential contractor BOWA, was to create a unified backyard retreat that included graceful connections to the home and outbuildings, and provide areas for family members of all ages to enjoy.

Centrally located are a sparkling negative edge pool and a spa, which was strategically located as close to the house as possible for year-round use. An adjacent outdoor living room provides a comfortable spot to watch kids at play on the lawn or tennis court or to simply enjoy the garden.

The beautiful outdoor kitchen features a custom grill hood, cedar cabinetry and natural stone countertops. Situated with convenient access to the home’s kitchen, it also offers a shady place to refuel and recharge. A built-in stone fire pit is one of several gathering spots planned for year-round enjoyment.

Every detail of the connections between the home and the outdoor spaces was thoughtfully designed to create a cohesive outdoor experience. From the welcoming separate foyer, which allows egress directly to the rear yard, to the pergola and entryway to the gym that is adjacent to the kitchen, dramatic unfinished cedar timbers are complemented by exquisite stonework and flagstone for a unified look throughout.

The homeowners are thrilled with their backyard oasis, which has become their go-to spot for hosting friends and extended family and enjoying private time as well.