Case Study
Creating an Intracoastal Oasis
Bolz Project Overview
This award-winning project transformed a waterfront property along the Intracoastal Waterway into a luxurious coastal retreat designed for gathering, relaxation, and year-round outdoor living. The homeowners envisioned a space where family and friends could come together to enjoy the views and entertain effortlessly, highlighting the best of coastal North Carolina living.
Element Outdoor Living designed and constructed a resort-style outdoor environment that blends modern architecture, natural landscapes, and water features. The completed project includes a custom pool and spa, expansive outdoor terraces, shaded seating areas, and lush coastal plantings that frame the property’s sweeping waterfront views.
The final result is a private outdoor sanctuary that feels both elegant and effortless. A space where innovative design, craftsmanship, and natural surroundings come together to create a true destination at home.
Project Scope
Design and build a luxury outdoor living environment overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway
Install a custom pool and spa designed to complement the home’s coastal architecture
Construct expansive terraces and lounging areas for entertaining and relaxation
Integrate shaded gathering spaces to enhance comfort in the coastal climate
Develop a cohesive landscape plan using regionally inspired plantings
Install custom hardscape and stonework to define outdoor living zones
Create seamless transitions between the home, pool deck, gardens, and waterfront views
Site Challenges & Solutions
Maximizing Waterfront Views
The property’s most valuable feature was its panoramic view of the Intracoastal Waterway. The design needed to highlight the scenery without obstructing sightlines.
Solution:
Outdoor living areas were carefully arranged to maintain open views toward the water while creating defined zones for lounging, dining, and entertaining.
Creating a Cohesive Outdoor Experience
With multiple outdoor features, including a pool, spa, terraces, and gardens, the space needed to feel unified rather than segmented.
Solution:
Strategic layout planning, consistent materials, and layered landscaping were used to guide movement through the space and visually connect each area into a cohesive outdoor environment.
Balancing Luxury with Natural Coastal Character
The homeowners wanted a high-end outdoor space that still felt authentic to the coastal environment.
Solution:
The design incorporated locally inspired plant selections, natural textures, and materials that reflect the character of coastal North Carolina while maintaining a refined aesthetic.
The Element Outdoor Living Difference
Every detail of this project was designed with intention, from the placement of gathering spaces to the plant palette chosen to thrive in the coastal climate. Element Outdoor Living approaches every project as a complete outdoor experience, combining landscape architecture, construction expertise, and thoughtful design to create spaces that feel both luxurious and natural. The result is a place where families gather, memories are made, and the outdoors becomes an extension of everyday life.
This project, “Creating an Intracoastal Oasis,” was recognized with a Gold Award of Excellence from the National Association of Landscape Professionals, one of the landscaping industry’s most prestigious honors. If you’re dreaming of transforming your property into a private outdoor retreat, our team can help bring that vision to life.