North Raleigh, NC · 2024
The Harrison Estate
Pool, spa & fire pit built on a sloped, wooded lot
The Story
The Harrison family wanted a resort-style retreat without sacrificing the mature oak canopy that made them fall in love with the property. Working with a 12-foot grade change, we designed a multi-level pool terrace that follows the natural slope — keeping every tree while carving out a private escape.
The Challenge
A steep, wooded lot with mature oaks that the homeowner insisted on preserving. Traditional excavation would have destroyed the root systems and changed the character of the property entirely.
Our Solution
We engineered retaining walls that follow the natural grade, used hand-excavation near root zones, and designed the pool shape to weave between the existing tree canopy. The result feels like the pool has always been there.
14 weeks
Build Time
18×36 ft
Pool Size
Pool + Spa + Fire Pit
Features
2,400 sq ft
Total Area
Construction Timeline
From ground to glory.
Site Assessment
Before breaking ground, we mapped every tree, root system, and grade change across the sloped backyard. The original property featured a wooded hillside with untouched natural terrain.
Excavation
Careful excavation around the root zones of mature oaks. Hand-digging in sensitive areas preserved the trees while carving out the pool shape on the natural slope.
Steel & Plumbing
A reinforced rebar grid was tied to spec, with all plumbing runs, returns, skimmers, and drains installed. The engineering accounted for the hillside's lateral pressure.
Shotcrete Shell
Pneumatically applied shotcrete formed the structural shell. Extra thickness on the downhill wall handles the slope's hydrostatic pressure year-round.
Tile & Coping
Hand-laid waterline tile and natural stone coping give the pool a refined, organic look that blends with the wooded surroundings.
Hardscape & Fire Pit
Multi-level flagstone terraces, a stone fire pit, and landscape lighting transform the slope into distinct outdoor rooms — all connected by natural stone steps.
Final Reveal
Pool filled, spa jets running, fire pit lit at twilight. The Harrison Estate is a true woodland retreat — every oak preserved, every detail intentional.
The Transformation
Before & After
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