Waterville - Riverfront Poolscape

Set high above the river’s edge, this property began as a sharply sloped backyard that felt disconnected and unusable. The goal was to transform it into a functional, layered poolscape that works with the terrain — not against it.

Using slope mapping, elevation modeling, and strategic grading, we carved a series of natural gathering spaces into the hillside and designed a custom freeform gunite pool, slide, stone deck, new circulation pathways, and direct river access.

Design Focus

Natural terrain integration
The existing grade drops nearly 30 feet from the back patio to the riverbank. Instead of flattening it, the design works with the slope by stepping down naturally with stone landings, retaining walls, and integrated stair runs.

Custom freeform pool
A fluid, curved layout that fits the hillside contours — shaping itself to the site rather than forcing symmetry. Built-in tanning shelf, entry steps, and a deep end positioned toward the river views.

Integrated slide and grade play
A custom slide is tucked into the slope, using grade changes to create a natural descent rather than a freestanding structure. It’s a signature feature and takes advantage of the site’s unique topography.

Circulation and movement
Multiple step paths connect the pool deck to upper and lower levels, creating smooth transitions without cutting through living spaces.

River connection
A walking path descends naturally toward the river, allowing the pool, home, and water to function as part of a single outdoor experience.

Landscape zones
Native planting areas replace existing fencing and exposed slope — softening grade transitions and blending with the river environment.

Key Elements

• Freeform gunite pool designed to follow natural contours

• Stone pool deck formed into the hillside — no raised edges or harsh transitions

• Integrated slide and lower landscape zone carved into grade

• Multiple stair runs connecting pool, deck, and river access

• View-oriented layout: pool edges, steps, and landing points aligned to sightlines

• Slope-stabilizing retaining walls and native planting pockets

The Experience

You move through this space, not just across it.
From the house, the grade begins to step down naturally toward the pool. The deck feels nestled into the hillside — protected on one side, open to river views on the other. Kids use the slide and lower path as playable terrain, adults flow easily between pool deck and lawn, and nothing feels forced or engineered. It feels discovered.