Outdoor Oasis: Moroccan-Inspired Swimming Pool

That gorgeous bluestone continues into the backyard, where an intimate dining area and swimming pool give the owners room to unwind. With lush greenery all around, this outdoor space is easily a sweet escape from the city. Credits: Architecture: Koffka/Phakos Design; Landscape Contractor: New View Landscape; Pool/spa and Masonry: Darin Marten Construction; Metal Work: Salvador Delgado

A low garden wall separates this Spanish bungalow from the street, making the home feel secluded, even in Los Angeles. Poured-in-place concrete steps and a custom laser-cut metal gate mark the entrance to the courtyard. Credits: Architecture: Koffka/Phakos Design; Landscape Contractor: New View Landscape; Pool/spa and Masonry: Darin Marten Construction; Metal Work: Salvador Delgado

Layers of silver and rich dark greens frame the courtyard's fountain. Four low-branched olive trees define the space, while the water feature adds some soothing ambient sound. Credits: Architecture: Koffka/Phakos Design; Landscape Contractor: New View Landscape; Pool/spa and Masonry: Darin Marten Construction; Metal Work: Salvador Delgado

A custom Moroccan-inspired fountain not only serves as a focal point for the courtyard, but also invites guests to stop and really take in their surroundings. Credits: Architecture: Koffka/Phakos Design; Landscape Contractor: New View Landscape; Pool/spa and Masonry: Darin Marten Construction; Metal Work: Salvador Delgado

After passing through the gate, guests will enter the courtyard, which has been paved with full-color Pennsylvania Bluestone. Salvaged steel wash basins flank the front door, with Kalanchoe beharensis and Sedum morganianum plants adding a splash of color. Credits: Architecture: Koffka/Phakos Design; Landscape Contractor: New View Landscape; Pool/spa and Masonry: Darin Marten Construction; Metal Work: Salvador Delgado

After soaking up some sun on the deck, the owners and their kids can cool off in the pool. A blue tiled accent wall with three water fountains makes the space feel even more refreshing. Credits: Architecture: Koffka/Phakos Design; Landscape Contractor: New View Landscape; Pool/spa and Masonry: Darin Marten Construction; Metal Work: Salvador Delgado

The Moroccan-inspired motif of the entry fountain is repeated in the pool tile, making the two spaces feel connected. The deep greens, rich browns and cool blues of the tile echo the colors of the landscape and tie the front garden and rear garden together as well. Credits: Architecture: Koffka/Phakos Design; Landscape Contractor: New View Landscape; Pool/spa and Masonry: Darin Marten Construction; Metal Work: Salvador Delgado

Retractable fabric adds another level of shade to the dining space. Because it sits just across from the pool, this refreshing area also comes with views of the water fountain and tiled accent wall. Credits: Architecture: Koffka/Phakos Design; Landscape Contractor: New View Landscape; Pool/spa and Masonry: Darin Marten Construction; Metal Work: Salvador Delgado