Urban Escape Project: Crafting an Outdoor Haven in East Nashville

Boutique Residence - Location: Nashville, TN - Size: .20 acres

In the heart of East Nashville's Shelby Village, a modest .20-acre lot presented both challenges and opportunities. The homeowners envisioned transforming their underutilized backyard into a multifunctional outdoor living space that would serve as an extension of their lifestyle.

Navigating Constraints with Creativity

The property's irregular shape, existing utility easements, and a sloping topography limited the buildable area to approximately 2,160 square feet. Despite these constraints, the design team embraced the challenge, focusing on maximizing functionality without compromising aesthetics.

Designing for Purpose and Flow

The reimagined space now seamlessly integrates several key features:

Dining and Lounge Areas: Positioned to facilitate social gatherings and everyday relaxation.
Swimming Pool with Water Feature: Elevated by 18 inches to align with the natural grade, adding depth and visual interest.
Outdoor Kitchen and Bar: Equipped with modern amenities and sheltered by a 16 ’ x 20’ automated pergola, ensuring usability across seasons.
Firepit Area: Offering a cozy nook for intimate conversations and quiet reflection.

Each element was thoughtfully placed to ensure a functional and visually harmonious flow.

Material Palette and Finishing Touches

A cohesive material palette ties the outdoor spaces to the home's existing architecture. Warm white and gray tones dominate, complemented by copper accents. Initially rich in color, Ipe wood benches are designed to age gracefully, developing a silvery patina that resonates with the surrounding porcelain pavers.

Collaborative Effort and Vision Realized

The success of the Urban Escape Project is a testament to collaborative design and meticulous planning. By addressing site-specific challenges head-on and prioritizing the homeowners' vision, the team delivered an outdoor retreat that enhances the property's value and the residents' quality of life.