The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1457679
team came up with the idea to give the area a resort feel with a community area, a villa, the putting green, and steps to link all the amenities together. Grading the yard to accomplish the tiered levels was one of the biggest challenges of the project, but the combination of stonework and well- planned plantings offered the perfect solution to bring function to the yard, while retaining natural beauty. The landscape design would create beauty, but D'Agostino still saw that the expansive yard needed anchors in the form of structures. The gazebo with seating area and a fireplace was an easy solution, but something larger with a purpose was necessary to bring it all together. To call the new structure that D'Agostino designed a pool house seems to give it a disservice as it is so much more, but that was what he had in mind. D'Agostino explains that his vision and the result for the pool house is like "the wolf in sheep's clothing. The exterior does not give a hint of the completely different experience that can be found inside." From the outside pool view, the building appears to be a single-story typical cabana that may house a common area, changing room, and shower. From the backside the full size of the structure becomes obvious, but subtle touches, like the barn door that is installed over the main door to give the appearance that the basement would have lawnmowers and storage, is completely deceiving. Surprise and awe were what D'Agostino wanted guests to feel when they walked inside. The two-story building features 900 square feet on the upper floor that encompasses a kitchen, family room, bathroom, and laundry. And sitting just outside the doors and expansive walls of windows is an outdoor kitchen and lounge area. Comfortable seating around a television and fireplace adjoins a kitchen with a large wood- topped island that can be used for food preparation as well as dining. Kitchen necessities like an oven and wine refrigerator are tucked underneath along with extra storage. Lighting with a simple design to not distract from the views outside, hangs from the ceilings offering a bit of subtle drama. Aligning the walls are more storage spaces and the refrigerator fronted by doors that match the remaining cabinetry. The kitchen provides just enough space for cookware and appliances for casual poolside meals. V U E N J .C O M 48