When clients I work with ask me "what makes the perfect design?" during the design phase, I wonder if perfection is an appropriate goal . The truth of the matter is that there will never be a perfect end scenario. Often compromises will have to be made, budgets, shifts in priorities, availability in material choices etc. The word “perfect” never makes sense in design work, design is about solving issues through a creative lens that offers functionality while aesthetically pleasing.
Here is a project that is a perfect example:
Fullerton Ca. – Backyard remodel.
Looking at the plan, the area that will house the spa is adjacent to an existing retaining wall that was not properly built. As the paver crew I was working with excavated to grade this area, they noticed the shallow footing. To achieve one elevation work needed to be done to the footing. This was not a cost the homeowner was willing to take on, a different solution was required.
On site:
Fullerton Ca, backyard spa deck - Salgado2024
Fullerton Ca, backyard spa deck - Salgado2024
The approach was to raise the spa area six inches, thus avoiding additional work/cost. Though, it changed the look of the final product, what was once an area that would be one elevation.
The change added the standing paver boarders to the back and side of the spa area. Which added depth and character to an otherwise flat/dull space.
From the final iteration, this project was complete and perfect based on the client feedback and goal for the yard. Though like all things in design, there will always be unknowns, this is why perfect is not a word that makes the most sense in my
opinion. If you are an aspiring design professional or interested in a career in landscape, architecture, or urban design, just remember, change is inevitable.