Nestled along the scenic waterfront of Annapolis, the homeowner’s residence is a testament to timeless charm and modern sophistication. With a vision to revitalize an outdated outdoor space, the homeowner embarked on a transformative journey with Wade Pools & Landscapes, a 20+ year old company, and a trust name in the Annapolis region. What began as a modest plan to replace a worn pool patio evolved into a comprehensive redesign of the entire outdoor living area, seamlessly blending indoor elegance with outdoor functionality. This is the story of the homeowner’s experience, a project that grew exponentially, creating an oasis perfectly suited to their lifestyle.
Discovering Wade Pools & Landscapes
“Our family goes back for generations here in Annapolis,” the homeowner shared, emphasizing the importance of working with a company known for reliability. Their confidence in Wade was further solidified when a close friend had a pool patio installed by the company on the Eastern Shore. Impressed by the quality of that project, the homeowner knew Wade was the right choice for their own home. “We trusted them from the start,” they said, citing the company’s proven track record as a key factor in their decision.
From Simple Patio to Grand Vision
Initially, the homeowner’s goal was straightforward: replace a 20-year-old pool patio with modern pavers. However, as discussions with Shaun, one of the owners at Wade Pools & Landscapes, progressed, the project’s scope expanded exponentially. The homeowner’s interior residence, characterized by its distinctive use of quartzite stone, demanded a design that harmonized indoor and outdoor spaces. “My house is unique because quartzite stone is a prevalent material,” the homeowner explained. “Shaun had the expertise and experience to tie the indoor themes into the outdoor space. I couldn’t be happier with the cohesion it created.”
The original $60,000 budget ballooned to $250,000 as the homeowner and Shaun collaborated to reimagine the entire outdoor area. The aging pool and its plumbing were completely redone, and Shaun’s suggestions elevated the design far beyond the initial concept. Landscape lighting, water effects, and two striking fire bowls were incorporated to enhance ambiance and functionality. An existing outdoor kitchen and Trex deck were rethought entirely. Shaun proposed removing the deck and extending the patio to include a gazebo, creating a more seamless and spacious outdoor living area. “Shaun’s experience was transformative,” the homeowner noted. “He fixed issues and made everything so much better. That’s what you’re paying for—expertise.”
Navigating the Design and Construction Process
The design process was a true collaboration, with Shaun’s vision aligning perfectly with the homeowner’s lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Living on the Chesapeake Bay, the homeowner’s property is subject to strict regulations regarding impervious surfaces in critical waterfront areas. Fortunately, the project qualified as an in-kind replacement, avoiding any significant permitting or regulatory hurdles. “There were no impervious surface challenges,” the homeowner confirmed, allowing the focus to remain on creativity and execution.
The homeowner’s design style leaned toward elegance and functionality, with a strong emphasis on outdoor living. “I love being outdoors, especially living on the water,” they said. “This project made it so comfortable to spend time outside. It’s an oasis, a breath of fresh air.” The redesigned space was crafted to accommodate the homeowner’s lifestyle, particularly their love for entertaining. The expansive patio and thoughtful layout now effortlessly host large parties, making it a hub for social gatherings.
Throughout the construction process, Wade Pools & Landscapes demonstrated exceptional professionalism. “They were extremely careful,” the homeowner recalled. “They didn’t damage or disturb anything outside the scope of work.” Materials were stored neatly, and the site remained safe and unobtrusive. Foreman Robbie played a pivotal role, maintaining open communication and addressing challenges promptly. “Robbie was easy to talk with,” the homeowner said. “He was prompt and solved issues quickly. For a custom project like this, communication was critical.”
Must-Have Elements and Lifestyle Integration
For the homeowner, the must-have elements were those that enhanced their connection to the outdoors while reflecting the sophistication of their home’s interior. The integration of stone into the outdoor design was non-negotiable, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic. The addition of landscape lighting and water effects created a serene ambiance, while the fire bowls added warmth and elegance for evening gatherings. The expanded patio and reconfigured walkways improved accessibility, ensuring that “feet don’t get wet when you walk through the grass in the morning,” as the homeowner humorously noted.
The redesigned walkways, including a new path through a flower bed, were tailored to the homeowner’s daily routines, making the space more conducive to their lifestyle. The removal and replanting of some landscaping ensured that the established greenery remained a focal point, blending seamlessly with the new features. “Shaun’s suggestions incorporated lifestyle elements and solutions that made everything work,” the homeowner said. The result was a space that not only met but exceeded their expectations, transforming the backyard into a functional and beautiful extension of the home.
Standout Quality and Workmanship
One of the most striking aspects of the project was the attention to detail in the combination of pavers and stone. “The crisscross pattern is amazing,” the homeowner said, praising the craftsmanship that elevated the design. “The attention to detail really stood out.” This meticulous approach was evident in every element, from the precise installation of the pavers to the thoughtful placement of lighting and water features. Wade’s commitment to quality ensured that the final product was not only visually stunning but also built to last.
Lessons Learned and Exceeding Expectations
Reflecting on the project, the homeowner learned the value of investing in expertise. “This started as a simple patio replacement, but it really flourished to another level,” they said. “Without Shaun’s experience, this would not have been such a wonderful project. He deserves a lot of credit for having the vision and the knowledge to carry it out.” The homeowner emphasized the importance of communication and trust in a custom project of this scale, noting that Wade’s team made the process smooth and stress-free.
Wade Pools & Landscapes exceeded expectations in every aspect of the job. “They absolutely exceeded what we hoped for,” the homeowner said. “From the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, they delivered on every promise.” The homeowner highly recommends Wade to anyone looking to transform their outdoor space, citing their professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail as unmatched.
A Lasting Oasis
The homeowner’s new outdoor space is more than just a backyard—it’s a sanctuary that reflects their love for the outdoors and their commitment to creating a welcoming environment for family, friends, and community. Whether hosting a summer barbecue, a philanthropic event, or simply enjoying a quiet evening by the fire bowls, the space has become a cornerstone of their lifestyle. “I can’t wait to spend time outside now,” the homeowner said. “It’s everything we dreamed of and more.”
For anyone considering a similar transformation, the homeowner’s experience with Wade Pools & Landscapes serves as a testament to the power of collaboration, expertise, and vision. From a simple patio replacement to a comprehensive outdoor masterpiece, Wade turned a vision into reality, creating an Annapolis oasis that will be cherished for years to come.
Are you looking for an outdoor oasis? Contact the professionals at Wade Pools & Landscape design today.
