Case Study: Contemporary Retreat in Old Worthington

Explore EMI’s design and build work in Old Worthington, where a modern outdoor retreat blends clean lines, natural materials, and a preserved century-old oak tree at the heart of the space.

Pool Design, Worthington

Located in the charming neighborhood of Old Worthington, Ohio, this residential project reimagines the outdoor experience through clean-lined geometries, a rich palette of hardscape materials, and a thoughtful relationship with the surrounding architecture. Designed and built by EMI’s in-house team, the landscape features a sleek pool and spa, an outdoor kitchen, a custom granite fire pit, and a variety of native and ornamental plantings.

The design’s centerpiece is a mature oak tree, meticulously protected throughout the project. Every element—from the porcelain pavers and granite retaining walls to the lighting and plantings—was selected to harmonize traditional and modern design, echoing the home's architectural language.

This outdoor space design earned national and state-level recognition in 2024, winning NALP Gold and OGIA Silver awards for excellence in landscape construction.

Outdoor Retreat Design Highlights

Design & Build by EMI: This project was conceived and executed entirely by EMI’s in-house landscape architecture and construction team, ensuring seamless vision and quality from start to finish.

Tree Preservation Strategy: A century-old oak tree was preserved through an intensive root zone protection plan, including air-spading, selective pruning, and integrated lawn panel grading.

Hardscape Excellence: Custom granite features—including a fire pit, steps, and retaining walls—were paired with large-format porcelain pavers laid in a running bond pattern, creating a clean, modern aesthetic.

Planting Design: A carefully curated plant palette includes Little Lime Hydrangeas, Hakone Grass, Fragrant Sumac, and Quick Fire Hydrangeas, offering texture, seasonal color, and balance.

Functional Luxury: The outdoor space supports year-round enjoyment with an integrated pool, spa, kitchen, fire feature, and ambient lighting—making it both elegant and practical.

Need Commercial Landscape Design?

Let EMI’s Design & Build team transform your commercial property with expert landscape architecture and installations, from serene natural spaces to functional hardscaped areas—and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for vibrant green landscapes or durable, functional outdoor environments, our team creates tailored solutions that meet your unique needs.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact us today to get started on your custom landscape design and build project.

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