Project Spotlight: Lochmoor’s Hidden Backyard Oasis
From the curb, our Lochmoor project in Grosse Pointe is elegant but understated: a layered landscape of boxwood, yew, and arborvitae hedges, anchored by full hydrangea and a refined row of Coral Burst Crabapple, uplit at night for dramatic effect. It’s a picture of classic curb appeal.
But what makes Lochmoor truly unforgettable is what you discover when you follow a path around the side of the home. Here, a hidden backyard oasis is revealed—an intimate courtyard anchored by a custom cocktail pool and framed by a white stucco pavilion. It’s a complete transformation: a property that begins with refinement and ends with pure retreat.
Front Yard Elegance
The front yard is designed as a layered landscape tapestry.
Low boxwood hedges form crisp lines
Mid-height yew hedges add depth
Tall arborvitae provide structure and privacy
A row of Coral Burst Crabapple trees adds seasonal interest, up-lit dramatically against the house
Hydrangea plantings frame the home with lush softness
It’s a sophisticated and timeless entry sequence that sets the stage for what lies beyond.
The Backyard Reveal
Turn the corner, and the experience changes instantly. The backyard opens into a courtyard-style retreat centered around a 10’ x 20’ custom gunite plunge pool. Designed with built-in bench seating around the entire perimeter, the pool adapts seamlessly to every mood—playful in summer, restorative in winter. With a smartphone app, the pool transforms from refreshing plunge pool by day to heated spa with jets by night.
The Pavilion: A Statement in Stucco
Beside the pool sits a striking white stucco pavilion, monolithic in form yet warm in function. Three large openings feature fully retractable screen walls that raise and lower with the touch of a button, providing shade, privacy, or insect protection as needed.
Inside, the pavilion divides into two distinct spaces:
Covered outdoor living room with a fireplace, deep lounge seating, and mounted all-weather TV
Outdoor kitchen with bar seating, finished with black granite countertops, built-in grill, refrigeration, and a second all-weather TV
Overhead, a tongue-and-groove ceiling is detailed with recessed lighting, ceiling fans, and powerful heaters to extend use long after summer ends.
Lighting the Landscape
Thoughtful lighting unites the property, from dramatic uplighting on the front landscape to linear black sconces on the pavilion and pendant lighting over the outdoor kitchen island. Along the patios and walkways, in-paver lights twinkle softly, guiding movement and adding a touch of magic to the evening.
Lochmoor in Summary
What begins as a stately, refined front yard opens into a fully private backyard escape. With its layered landscaping, plunge pool, and pavilion, Lochmoor is a complete property transformation—one that balances classic Grosse Pointe elegance with modern outdoor luxury.