The Mountain Reflections project reimagines a dated and obstructed pool deck garden into a lively and welcoming seasonal retreat. Located in the high desert climate of our client’s summer home, the design tackles the challenges of limited planting space, struggling trees, and an outdated water feature while enhancing views of the Sandia Mountains.

The pool deck featured a south-facing hardscape, a planting garden, a water feature garden, and Aspen trees. The linear architectural footprint directed the view southward to frame the Sandia Mountains. Mark G. Brotton’s design revitalized the pool deck garden by removing the original boulder water feature to reclaim valuable planting space. Its obstructive design, which limited visibility and attracted rodents, was replaced with smaller, strategically placed boulders to maintain the garden’s accent theme.

The planting design primarily featured summer-blooming plants alongside fall and winter accent plantings, creating year-round visual interest. A custom metal trellis enhanced the color of the stucco wall and added climbing plants to frame the garden. Sickly Aspen trees, stunted in their wire baskets, were replaced with Prairie Fire Crabapples, which frame the garden’s footprint while preserving the view of the Sandia Mountains.

A new hydrozoned irrigation system was designed for the diverse needs of the expanded plantings. Enriched soil, amended with premium compost to a depth of 24 inches, ensured optimal plant health. Large boulders were carefully removed and repurposed on-site, while pond liners and underlayment materials were cleared away. Rodent nests were eliminated, making way for a vibrant array of colorful plantings accented with evergreens to create year-round appeal.

Sustainability continued to be a central focus. Reusing boulders on-site minimized waste, and crane operations were limited to two days, reducing the project’s carbon footprint. Using locally sourced materials and plants supported regional businesses while lowering transportation emissions.

The Mountain Reflections project resulted in a low-maintenance, elegant poolside garden that showcases seasonal beauty, enhances planting potential, and preserves breathtaking natural views, providing clients with a serene retreat at their summer home.