For their second home, the homeowners of this beautiful house enjoy having a place to escape the city life and relax by the pool with friends and family.

The existing landscape posed a challenge for designer John Cowen as he planned the renovation which was to include a pool and still "maintain the right sense of proportion with the overall space and abide by the local property setback restrictions and homeowner association restrictions."

The new backyard landscape features a rectangular in-ground pool that boasts clean lines and a simple, traditional layout, a key design element that allows the surrounding nature to shine through.

Cedar shake siding is a gorgeous textural feature of the home which is reflected in the straight lines of the rectangular pool and square pavers in this classic backyard landscape.

The square pavers create an eye-catching entrance to the pool from the home's back door, and the deep green grass growing between them presents a delicate contrast in color and texture.

Two large white umbrellas flanking the lounge chairs reflect light and offer shade from the summer sun.