Comprehensive Property Redesign:
A Mediterranean-Inspired
Outdoor Transformation
While some families envision adding only a pool or a new driveway, these homeowners opted for a complete property redesign. This outdoor transformation combines elegance, functionality, and Mediterranean-inspired style across the entire landscape.
This extensive project involved a total landscape redesign in York, Pennsylvania. It began with essential exterior basement drainage work and resulted in a breathtaking front and backyard transformation. Hively served as the General Contractor, overseeing every aspect of the project from concept to completion.
Outdoor Living
Program
Design
With a vision for a Mediterranean-inspired oasis, the homeowners collaborated with Hively for a design that seamlessly integrated their ideas with the property's unique needs. However, the discovery of chronic basement water infiltration expanded the project's initial scope. To address this, Hively installed an exterior foundation drainage system before progressing to the project’s centerpiece: a custom-designed swimming pool.
Hively's team created the entire design, which included:
In-ground pool with a natural stone-clad plunge bath and a mini waterfall feature
Regulation bocce court with luxurious crushed oyster shell surface and custom bluestone curbing
Perennial and shrub plantings for year-round interest
Transformation of the garage into a pool house
Relocation of the driveway and addition of a new detached garage
Outdoor kitchen and Rumford-style fireplace for extended outdoor living
Construction
As the project’s General Contractor, Hively managed each phase of construction, including the hardscaping, landscaping, and coordination of contracted elements such as fencing, pool installation, and general construction.
Basement Drainage Solution: Hively addressed the water infiltration by installing an exterior foundation drain, directing water away from the home and creating a stable foundation for the rest of the project.
Front Landscape Renovation: The front yard received a complete makeover with raised stone-clad beds filled with native plants and colorful perennials. The original flagstone walkway and steps were replaced with bluestone pavers in a classic yet modern pattern.
Backyard Transformation: The backyard evolved through several stages. A custom bocce court, regulation-sized with full drainage, features bluestone curbing, an Ipe wood bumper, and a luxurious crushed oyster shell surface.
Pool and Patio Installation: The pool and patio design is a testament to craftsmanship, featuring a scalloped-edge pool with a mini waterfall and a stone-clad plunge pool. The spacious paver patio complements the landscape with earthy tones that unify the outdoor setting.
Garage and Pool House Redesign: The original garage was transformed into a modern pool house, and a new garage with a paver driveway and parking court was built in a more convenient location.
Outdoor Kitchen and Outdoor Fireplace: The outdoor kitchen and outdoor fireplace extend the home’s living space. The custom bar countertop features fiber-optic LED lighting, illuminating the bar with hundreds of sparkling points of light.
Perimeter Fence and Final Landscaping: A custom-designed fence encircles the property, providing privacy and security. The perimeter landscape was completely renovated with lush plantings that harmonize with the stone and paver elements, adding year-round color and texture.
The result is an opulent outdoor oasis where homeowners can entertain or relax in solitude. The landscape balances form, function, and elegance, with each element adding to the space’s charm — from whimsical features like the bocce court to tranquil water features.
Ongoing Maintenance
To ensure the property remains in pristine condition, Hively provides ongoing maintenance through our TotalCare program. This service includes seasonal preparation, cleanup, and specialized care for the large vegetable garden, which is lovingly maintained by the homeowners.
This Mediterranean-inspired transformation showcases the beauty and functionality of a well-designed outdoor space, crafted to be enjoyed year-round. See more of what Hively has to offer below.
