This site in McLean, Virginia, featured visually dramatic and robust architecture and a restrictive county stormwater easement. The clients’ program called for a pool at the rear of the house, which would have left very little space for the garden and yard if aligned orthogonally to the residence. By twisting the placement of the pool, Richardson & Associates not only worked with the easement but also gained space for a pleasing and unique experience. Broad platform stairs appear to float from the house to the pool deck, spa, and separate firepit terrace. A dog run cascades down alongside the stairs to the entry of the infinity pool, which catches the reflection of the trees. The raked finish on the marble veneer of the pool edge gives the water movement and adds texture to the raised vertical face of the spa. Curved planting beds and abundant hydrangeas temper the strong lines of the architecture.