Crafting an Intimate Retreat in Arlington

Absolutely. The Canonica project demonstrates how existing concrete patios can become the foundation for sophisticated pool design rather than an obstacle. We anchored their 14x12 cedar pergola directly to the existing concrete using metal post anchors on 6x6 cedar posts, creating structural integrity while preserving the clients' investment in existing hardscape. This approach allowed resources to focus on premium features like the gunite shell construction, nicheless LED lighting, dual bubblers, and the Polaris 280 automated cleaning system that define the long-term experience of this outdoor living space.

Cedar offers natural weather resistance and beautiful grain patterns that improve with age, as demonstrated in the Canonica pergola with its 6x6 posts and 2x12 rafter supports. The 2x2 shade boards filter harsh sunlight while allowing air circulation, creating comfortable outdoor living conditions throughout the day. The natural oils in cedar resist insects and moisture damage that would compromise lesser materials, providing decades of service with minimal maintenance. For the Canonica project, this durability complements the automated pool systems, ensuring the entire outdoor living space ages gracefully with consistent character.

Bubblers add gentle kinetic energy that transforms still water into a living feature, as seen in the Canonica pool where dual units create movement and subtle sound. The bubbling action also helps with water circulation and provides a calming sensory element that enhances the retreat-like atmosphere of this intimate outdoor living space. Beyond aesthetics, bubblers serve practical functions by increasing water movement, which aids chemical distribution alongside the six pool returns that maintain optimal circulation across the gunite shell. They're particularly effective in intimate designs like the Canonica pool where every detail contributes to the sanctuary experience.

The IQ900 controller in the Canonica project manages lighting, cleaning cycles, and water circulation from a single interface, eliminating daily maintenance tasks. Combined with the Polaris 280 cleaner and its dedicated 0.75hp booster pump, the system handles routine cleaning automatically while the cartridge filter captures debris efficiently. This level of automation means clients spend time enjoying their investment rather than maintaining it. The Jandy 6613 power center coordinates all electrical functions, and the in-line chlorine feeder provides consistent sanitization—ensuring the Canonica outdoor living space remains inviting with minimal manual effort.

The Canonica project showcases how thoughtful design maximizes impact within intimate spaces by focusing on vertical elements and multi-functional features. The 14x12 cedar pergola adds architectural dimension without consuming additional footprint, while the gunite pool design emphasizes clean lines and efficient circulation through six returns and dual bubblers. Smaller Arlington lots benefit from this approach—creating defined outdoor rooms rather than sprawling water features. The combination of existing concrete integration, the vertical pergola structure with 2x2 shade boards, and carefully selected water features delivers a complete outdoor environment within realistic spatial constraints.