Simple and Stunning: A Pool Decades in the Making

Just over 30 years ago, Alison, from West Virginia, met Gene while on vacation at Wrightsville Beach. Their chance meeting blossomed into a lifelong romance. They married, raised two children, and built a thriving small business offering the freshest locally sourced seafood in North Carolina. Alison had dreamed of having a pool since childhood but always heard “no” from her father and later from Gene. In 2006, the couple built their new home on a lot sloping down to a tranquil pond. For 18 years, Gene insisted it wasn’t feasible to add a pool to the yard despite the pleas from his children and Alison who mused:

“Any yard can be transformed with imagination and dirt.”

Everything changed during the April 2023 Azalea Garden Tour. Inspired by pools in their neighborhood and by grandbaby Olivia’s recent swimming lessons, Gene finally agreed. Alison began working on her long-held vision of a tropical retreat featuring a pool with elegant curves, a resort-style sun shelf, and lush landscaping.

The next day, she was on the phone with Greg Moore of Port City Pools. “He’s chill, easy-going, and really connected,” Alison shared, “His pools are beautiful, and we trusted him.” Greg recommended Lindsay Butler, LEED-AP, of Butler Landscape Architecture (BLA), who expertly reworked the design to satisfy Alison, Gene, and their HOA to bring the dream to life. The couple chose Crème Shell stone. Its subtle shell accents perfectly complement their driveway’s oyster shell tabby finish, creating a cohesiveness as if the pool had been there from the start.

Breaking ground in February 2024, the pool was installed with the stone patio laid in a French pattern, with matching bullnose pool coping. The pool was swimmable in July 2024.

Local small business Wrightsville Beach Landscaping, run by Mike and Karen Carter, installed seven palm trees, elephant ears, and lush Zeon Zoysia grass to create the lush, tropical feel Alison envisioned. Monochromatic patio furniture ensures the pool remains the star. 

The couple added finishing touches, like the potted palms surrounded by white pebbles, to enhance the resort feel.

When the project was completed, the family celebrated with a lively dog pool party.

Guests included their 90-pound golden doodle Boone, black lab Duke, late fluffy companion Ruffin, lab Gunner, and golden doodle Fin. Baby Olivia loved it, too.

Over the years, the family faced challenges, including Gene’s heart issues, which led to their support of the American Heart Association. Through it all the pool has remained a place of gratitude, where wonderful new memories and experiences are made. Alison’s collection of pool toys, a floating basketball goal, and seasonal decorations make the yard the center of family fun. 

Alison and Gene recently celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary and grand-baby Olivia’s first birthday. This summer, they all look forward to creating even more memories – a testament to a simple yet stunning design made possible with the support of talented local businesses.

“The pool and its surroundings far exceed my vision,” Alison says. “It’s a little slice of heaven; we cherish every moment here.”

Photography by Allison Potter