PLAY TIME

An Andover backyard is transformed into a summer oasis for a young family.

- By Nancy A. Ruhling

Andover Landscape Design and Construction turned a bare backyard into an all-season recreation area. The 18-foot by 36-foot gunite pool is the showpiece of the space.

To home in on family memories, an Andover couple with two young children and a playful golden retriever named Goodwin have created an all-season retreat in their own backyard.

This wasn’t exactly what they set out to do. Initially, they thought they would simply add a swimming pool. As an alternative, they toyed with the idea of renting or buying a vacation home.

But Andover Landscape Design and Construction helped them create a recreation area that serves not only as an anchor for family events and entertainment but also for a variety of year-round activities ranging from swimming to ice skating.

Andover Landscape Design and Construction used the contours of the steeply sloped plot to advantage, creating a series of terraces that flow into each other and unify the design.

“The space transports you to a boutique hotel escape crafted for enjoyment and comfort no matter the season,” says Russell Stott, a partner at Andover Landscape Design and Construction. “And the family doesn’t have to pack up and travel to a vacation rental to get the experience.”