Shaker Heights Outdoor Retreat

This Shaker Heights backyard was reimagined as a complete outdoor living environment—a place designed for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the landscape throughout the season.

The pool serves as the centerpiece of the design, with a generous sun shelf creating a comfortable place to relax in the water. A cedar pergola provides shade and architectural structure over the spa, while the waterfall adds movement and sound to the space.

Surrounding the pool, a paver terrace creates a strong connection between the home and the different outdoor living areas. A fire pit and bar provide additional gathering spaces, allowing the backyard to transition naturally from daytime pool use to evenings with family and friends.

Low-maintenance plantings were carefully arranged to provide privacy while bringing layers of texture, color, and seasonal interest to the property. The planting softens the hardscape and creates a more intimate setting without overwhelming the outdoor spaces.

The result is a backyard that feels cohesive and purposeful—where the pool, spa, entertaining areas, architecture, and landscape work together as one complete outdoor retreat.