Project Profile: Modern Poolside Hardscaping and Landscape Design in Monona, WI
How Do You Design a Poolside Landscape That Feels Modern and Livable?
A well-planned poolside landscape design should feel seamless, comfortable, and built for real use. In Monona, WI, Carrington Lawn & Landscape partnered with homeowners to create a modern outdoor space that connects a new pool to the home while adding functional living areas designed for long-term enjoyment.
Project & Client Background: Rebuilding Trust Through Design
This Madison area homeowner came to Carrington Lawn & Landscape after a challenging experience with a previous landscaper. They discovered our team at the NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) Madison Chapter trade show while preparing for a major backyard investment— a new pool installation paired with surrounding outdoor living spaces.
This was not a small upgrade. With multiple contractors involved and a significant scope of work ahead, the homeowners were looking for a landscape partner who could provide clarity, coordination, and confidence from the start.
Their goals were clear:
- Tie the new pool seamlessly into the home and yard
- Create comfortable gathering and lounging spaces around the pool
- Maintain a clean, modern aesthetic that honors the character of the home
- Choose materials and plantings that would keep the pool area low-maintenance
From the beginning, trust and visualization were critical.
Project Details: What Was Included in This Monona, WI, Poolside Landscape Design?
This project combined hardscaping, lighting, softscaping, and detailed design planning to create a cohesive poolside environment that feels intentional from every angle.
Hardscape Features
The hardscape design focused on larger-scale materials and smooth textures, ideal for barefoot traffic while still providing traction and durability.
- Unilock Quarry Smooth wall stone for modern retaining and seating walls
- Unilock Umbriano coping units with a chamfered edge around the pool
- Unilock Umbriano XL patio units for clean lines and visual continuity
- Fond du Lac Premier flagstone for a natural stone patio area
- NDS drainage components to properly manage water around the pool and hardscape
- FX Lighting DX300-M transformer and LF wall lights provide safe, low-glare illumination
Each material was selected to complement the home’s architecture while supporting comfort and safety around the pool.
Softscape and Plantings: Clean Lines, Season-Long Color
Around a pool, plant selection matters just as much as hardscape. The goal was to provide structure and visual interest without introducing excessive debris into the pool area.
The softscape palette was intentionally simple and restrained, reinforcing the modern aesthetic:
- Blue Star juniper
- Star Power juniper
- Trautman Chinese juniper
- Eastern redbud
- Bobo hydrangea
- Overdam feather reed grass
- Zagreb coreopsis
These plants offer season-long color, texture, and structure while remaining easy to maintain and pool-friendly.
What Made This Monona, WI Project Unique?
This project stands out not only for its design but also for its setting. The home sits on a rare, larger lot near the Madison-area lakes, offering space that’s uncommon for an older property so close to the water.
The design challenge was to honor the character of the older home, while updating the landscape with a distinctly modern feel. Clean lines, smooth textures, and a simplified material palette allowed the outdoor space to feel fresh and contemporary without overpowering the existing architecture.
Visualizing the Space Before Construction
Because of the project’s scale, Carrington Lawn & Landscape relied heavily on 3D modeling during the design phase. This allowed the homeowners to clearly see how the pool, patios, walls, and plantings would come together before construction began— an essential step for building confidence and alignment on a large investment.
Challenges & Solutions: Coordinating a Multi-Contractor Project
Projects of this scale require careful coordination, especially with multiple contractors involved.
The Challenges
- Aligning timelines and elevations with pool and deck contractors
- Seamlessly connecting landscape work with other trades
- Addressing an early issue with the concrete pool surround
Our Approach
Clear communication and flexibility guided the process. Our seasoned team coordinated closely with all contractors to ensure proper sequencing and transitions. The result was a smooth, well-integrated project, delivered with confidence, adaptability, and attention to detail.
Ready to Design a Poolside Landscape That Works for You?
At Carrington Lawn & Landscape, we understand that poolside projects require thoughtful coordination, smart material choices, and clear communication. Whether you’re planning a poolside landscape design, a modern hardscape upgrade, or a full backyard transformation, our team is here to guide you from concept through completion.
Contact Carrington Lawn & Landscape today to start designing an outdoor space that’s built for how you live.