“Given the amount of planning that Odd Job invested in our project, there were very few surprises once the project got under way.”

“Mr. Spenner called us, inquiring about a master plan for his property which included a new poolscape and patio for entertaining as well as a new landscape installation for the grounds of the property,” says Dan Mazabras. The two met several times and exchanged ideas. Brain wanted to design an outdoor retreat to share with his friends and family. He takes pleasure his interior space this way; why not create more beauty and enjoy his outdoor space too?

Dan listened and shared ways to dramatically expand the families’ outdoor lifestyle. His final proposal illustrated a cohesive transition from the indoors to the outdoors with thoughtful accommodations for both family time and entertaining friends – alfresco.

Mr. Spenner explains, “Odd Job was very effective in managing our project.  It was a very large undertaking and Odd Job thoughtfully staged the construction to complete the project as efficiently as possible.”

In six months, the project was finalized and the outdoor retreat was actualized.  Lush, flowering dogwoods provide canopies of shade while boxwoods and rhododendron frame the grounds. A host of carefully selected vibrant perennials and shrubs create visual balance and harmony throughout the property.

“Odd Job designed a yard that has areas of more refined landscaping while maintaining open spaces for our children to enjoy.”

An expansive ground level walkout which includes an outdoor shower, leads the visitor up to the spectacular custom pool design and patio set in New York bluestone and enclosed by low walls of Connecticut fieldstone, fencing and regional grasses.

The 20 ft x45 ft pool features a built in spa, auto cover and is anchored on the far end by an outdoor, gas fireplace that appears as organic to the outdoor living area as the surrounding trees.

Today, Brian and his family are just as comfortable gathered around their poolside fireplace and grilling area as they are at their kitchen table.

The Spenner property is a lesson in natural transitions from indoor comforts to outdoor living. From the artful mosaic of New York bluestone, to the outdoor shower and gas fireplace, the Spenner property asks the visitor to relax and stay for a while, even in the cooler months.

“Our experience with Odd Job has been excellent.  Whenever you ask Odd Job to take care of something, you know it will get done and that it will be done in the proper manner.”

Before

With masonry for the ground floor walkout completed, Mr. Mazabras set out to frame the property with planting beds for trees, shrubs and perennials as well as install fencing and landscape lighting. Note how the final installation creates more defined and inviting living areas while allowing for plenty of open space.

Pool and Poolscape

The perfect retreat is just outside your backdoor. This 20’x45’ custom pool design with built-in spa and auto cover is surrounded by a spacious patio set in elegant, New York bluestone.

Outdoor Gas Fireplace

After the party, those who remain poolside, sharing memories over a glass of wine are your dearest companions.  Nestled beneath a balcony of trees, this outdoor fireplace provides the warmth and comfort to linger well after Labor Day. Curved walls of Connecticut fieldstone, installed using expert masonry provide extra seating around the hearth and help set the scene for memories to come.

Ground floor patio and walkout

Belgium block aprons and cascades of lighting curl around the low, stone walls surrounding the ground floor walkout. A sea of New York bluestone in natural tones of lilac, blue and beige beckon the visitor to come outdoors and stay for a while.

Outdoor Shower

Thoughtful additions like the outdoor shower located on the ground floor patio provide the finishing touches on an exceptional outdoor living area. Water cascades over walls of Connecticut fieldstone, an architectural element which was found in the house and repeated throughout the landscape design.

Odd Job Landscaping Supports The Tiny Miracles Foundation, dedicated to helping families born prematurely in Fairfield County, Connecticut through in-kind donations.

This great organization offers families support and hope as they cope with the premature birth of their child or children, navigate the frightening new world of the NICU, and eventually transition home with their tiny miracle(s). Their parent support services are available free of charge to all parents of premature infants admitted to the NICU and their families.

Find out more about this great organization here.

Photography by Joseph Cole

If you’re dreaming of a beautifully designed garden or longing for landscaping that oozes curb appeal, you’re in luck. We sat down with some of the leading landscape architects and designers in our area and we picked their brains on everything from saving money on plants to minimizing maintenance. With all that talent gathered in one room, we dug up ideas that are sure to help you create an inspired outdoor space.

DAN [The best time to water is]“…in the morning, the sunlight hours will give things time to dry out.”

HEATHER “Pay attention to the soil. It may cost a bit more to get the best soil, but it’s really worth it in the long run.”

Be sure to check out the full article for more great tips.

Photograph by Stacy Bass