When the catastrophe that was Hurricane Sandy hit the Jersey Shore in 2012, Gambrick, a top custom home builder at the Jersey Shore, was in the early stages of construction of a new Spring Lake, NJ home. Though this particular plot of land was spared the worst of Sandy’s destructive waters, the storm was a devastating reminder of the destructive power of Mother Nature.
With that in mind, the owners called in John, owner and head builder at Gambrick, to help re-design not only the home, with beefed up construction able to withstand rising hurricane waters, but also outdoor environments tough enough to stand up to the elements. They wanted a lot of stone and natural boulders. Stone is an ideal choice, it’s been weathering storms since the beginning of time. Durable stone pavers were used for the pool deck and walkways. Granite, concrete and bluestone were also used throughout the space. Boulders were shipped in to act as natural barriers around the property.
Gambrick incorporated teak, ipe and mahogany elements. Real hardwoods are robust and age well. They hold up to the elements better than composite materials and resist mold. They also hold warmth much better in the spring and summer, get less slippery in the winter and have a much better feel when walked on.
An Ipe path and pool deck lead toward the mahogany pergola and outdoor kitchen surrounded by real stone and local fauna. Even on a beautiful day, a coastal environment can wreak havoc with the landscaping. So the plants chosen for this project need the ability to thrive in the temperamental New Jersey weather, sandy soil and salty air.
At the rear of the home, trees and bushes add greenery while helping to screen the property from wind gusts. Local decorative sea grasses add an untamed element and create a mid height layer between the trees, shrubs and lower-lying flowers. The landscaping at the front of the house required even more highly resilient plants because the ocean is just a block away. The expertly placed rocks match the surroundings, blending nicely with the surrounding boulders, decking, stones and landscaping. Everything flows together as one cohesive unit. Gambrick then added other amenities on the homeowners’ wish list. Two fire features, one built from stone and paired with a matching bench, another on a porch table. Backyard fun doesn’t stop just because chilly weather arrives.
Even a little rain won’t hinder the action. The pergola offers one of several sheltered spaces, as does the large porch off the kitchen. Jersey Shore homeowners love to entertain, and this is certainly the place to welcome family and friends. It’s a gorgeous spot that will be a leisure time destination for many years, come rain or shine or whatever the wind blows in.
