When most homeowners look at a heavily wooded and sloped backyard and dream of a swimming pool, they might think twice. But for this adventurous Leawood, Kansas, family, the challenging terrain was just the beginning of an extraordinary transformation that would become our July Pool of the Month for Aviva Pools.
The vision: luxury meets function
This stunning project features a 30-foot Apex fiberglass pool in the elegant Seychelles Sand color, complemented by The Oracle spillover spa elevated 18 inches above the pool deck. The salt water chlorinated, and heated system ensures year-round enjoyment, while the spa operates independently with its own heater, which is perfect for Kansas winters when the main pool is winterized.
The attention to detail shines through in every element, from the three color-changing LED lights in the pool to the sophisticated lighting integrated into the hardscape surrounding the elevated spa. The premium manufactured stone coping with bullnose finish provides both beauty and comfort, while the high-end paver decking creates a cohesive, luxurious feel underfoot.
Overcoming Extraordinary Challenges
What makes this project truly remarkable isn’t just its beauty; t’s also the herculean effort required to make it happen. The installation team from Prairieside Concepts in Kansas City faced what they described as one of their most challenging projects to date.
The heavily wooded, sloped backyard required extensive preparation, including:
- Removal of numerous mature trees
- Construction of a 5-foot-tall retaining wall on the north and east sides
- 13 truckloads of gravel for backfill and leveling
- An extensive $10,000 drainage retention system beneath the entire pool area
Navigating Municipal Guidelines
As a corner lot in Leawood, Kansas, a community known for its impeccably high standards, this project required nearly a year of permitting. The city’s rigorous stormwater management requirements meant installing a sophisticated drainage system to handle runoff from the new hardscaping. While challenging, these standards ensure Leawood maintains its reputation as one of Kansas City’s most beautiful communities.
The drainage solution includes an underground retention system that slowly releases water into designated yard areas during heavy rainfall, demonstrating how luxury pool installation can work harmoniously with environmental responsibility.
Thoughtful Design Elements
Beyond the pool itself, this project showcases thoughtful consideration for both family living and neighborhood harmony. The elevated spa creates natural separation while maintaining visual flow, and the outdoor grilling station (constructed with matching stone veneer) extends the entertaining space.
Perhaps most touching was the homeowners’ consideration for their neighbors. After removing trees that had provided mutual privacy, they planted a row of emerald green arborvitae along their new six-foot privacy fence, a gesture that shows how great design considers the entire community.
A Family-Focused Paradise
Designed for a family with children ranging from about 10 to 15 years old, this backyard oasis offers the perfect solution for parents who want to know where their teenagers are spending time. The strategic window placement from the kitchen provides clear sightlines to both the pool area and the outdoor entertaining space.
The automatic safety cover ensures peace of mind when the pool isn’t in use, while the independent spa heating system means the family can enjoy warm water relaxation even when the main pool is closed for the season.
The Prairieside Concepts Difference
This remarkable transformation was brought to life by Prairieside Concepts, a design-build firm founded by partners Mark Beaumier and Adam McGovern, who combined their individual decades of construction experience during the pandemic. Their customer-focused approach and commitment to quality craftsmanship shine through in every detail of this project.
The team’s dedication to excellence is evident not just in the final result, but in their willingness to navigate a thorough permitting process and complex site challenges to deliver their clients’ dream backyard. Their reputation for quality work spreads through word-of-mouth referrals. In fact, this project came from satisfied customers from a pool they completed two years earlier.
More Than a Pool: A Lifestyle Transformation
This backyard pool installation represents more than just a place to swim. It’s a testament to what’s possible when vision meets expertise, when challenges become opportunities and when every detail is carefully considered. From the premium materials to the thoughtful neighborhood integration, this project exemplifies the transformative power of exceptional pool design. The result is a backyard that went from unusable sloped woodland to a resort-style retreat where a family can create memories for years to come. It’s exactly the kind of project that makes us proud to feature it as our Pool of the Month.
Interested in transforming your own challenging backyard into a stunning oasis? Connect with a local dealer at Aviva Pools and get started today.
