A Hidden Oasis

Dublin homeowners incorporate year-round use into dream space

Designing a dream space is no small task. When Dublin property owners tasked Hidden Creek Landscaping with creating such a space, multi-functionality was the key phrase. From hosting epic soirées, exclusive gatherings and family activities, every situation needed to be accounted for – including the unpredictable Ohio weather. 

The first part of the project included adding a new exit from the home onto the lower patio. The existing deck was torn out, a door was added, along with a custom, two-story fireplace with spiral staircase and a fully integrated spa. The fireplace is definitely the focal point of the project. On the first level, there’s a fireplace that extends upward, where it holds a relaxing water feature. 

“With four kids and an active lifestyle, this Dublin family was looking to transform the way they used their backyard,” says Jason Cromley, founder and owner of Hidden Creek Landscaping. “The two-phase, custom project was part of a home addition and carefully designed to extend the new interior space seamlessly outdoors.”

The homeowners were also looking for a spa to enjoy after running and in the evenings, which is situated on the main level and integrated into the lower patio. To extend how long the family can use the space, heaters were installed into the ceiling. 

Underneath the addition is a covered outdoor kitchen complete with gas grill, green egg, refrigerator, island with bar seating and lighting. The kamado-style ceramic charcoal barbecue cooker acts as an all-in-one grill, oven and smoker. This intimate nook is enhanced with a wood-burning fireplace and cedar wall.

“As a grilling enthusiast, phase one was all about creating a grill master’s dream with plenty of space for family and friends,” says Cromley.

The goal with phase two of the project was about creating a relaxing environment for family and friends.

“When we first met with the homeowners, their goal was to create more reasons to get outside. They wanted to entertain more and extend how long they use their backyard,” says Cromley.

And to address that upside down Ohio weather? The space was designed for year-round use, with the underside of the deck incorporated with heaters for the winter, ceiling fans for the heat, and speakers and dimmer lighting just for comfort. A spiral staircase leads guests up to the second level deck, where homeowners are greeted with dining al fresco in front of the chimney. It doubles as a water feature – which is totally a modern twist. Linear LED lights and other lighting accents bolster this hidden oasis.

A water feature was incorporated into the two-story fireplace to create a unique and relaxing space. During initial discussions, the homeowners indicated they wanted a low-maintenance water feature and that it was important to them to be able to see and hear water. HCL's team went to work and transformed this space.

"While there are a lot of details that bring this space together, the uniqueness of the project was around maximizing space,” says Cromley. “We were able to transform their backyard to meet the various needs of a family of six while maintaining the current build lines.”

Everyone deserves their own year-round oasis, though we’re quite positive that these Dublin homeowners won’t keep it hidden!