Kirk Bianchi is a landscape architect, instructor, and expert in outdoor living and pool design. He has redefined the art of creating outdoor spaces which seamlessly integrate into homes. In a recent article, Kirk Bianchi shared his thoughts on his design approach, stressing the importance of harmony between landscapes and pools as well as the overall aesthetic of a property. Bianchi’s design approach is unique in a world of extravagant pool designs which often do not complement the home.
Creating Harmonious Outdoor Living Spaces
Bianchi’s work is testament to his dedication to creating outdoor environments that are not tacked-on but blend seamlessly into the environment. He is aware of the disconnect between the structure and chaos of the backyard. Pools are overloaded with unnecessary elements. He wants to achieve balance with each client. Bianchi says, “It is a total disconnect” when referring to the disconcerting juxtaposition between elegant homes and backyards that look like theme parks. Many times, you’ll see beautiful homes with sculptural and geometric qualities. But the backyards are something completely different. It’s a travesty.”
Transforming a Backyard – A Case Study
Kirk Bianchi has transformed a backyard in a beautiful oasis. The pool was vanishing-edge with a spa that overlooked a tranquil pond. The design of Bianchi shows a perfect balance between pool and outdoor area.
Project Challenges:
Kirk Bianchi “The site presented a challenge in that the pool was only 15ft wide, front-to-back, but it measured 90ft long. The back edge is a single straight line following the boundary of the property.
Bianchi Design
– Photographer:
Michael Woodall
Kirk Bianchi “The viewing angles were the driving force behind the length of the swimming pool. We thought, from where will you be able to enjoy this? “So that’s the way it came about.”
Create Immersive Experiences
Kirk Bianchi’s design philosophy goes beyond aesthetics and incorporates practicality and the user’s experience. His designs are based on the clients’ needs, whether they’re capturing the beauty of trees in reflections, enjoying a sunrise over a lake, or maximizing a unique golf course view. His designs are truly immersive and personal because of these considerations.
Bianchi Design
– Photographer:
Michael Woodall
Kirk Bianchi “We wanted them to really feel immersed in the park-like setting without being encaged and enclosed.”
The latest trends in pool and outdoor living design
Kirk Bianchi’s perspective was shared when asked about the current trends and directions for pool and Outdoor Living Design. Kirk Bianchi stressed the importance of adopting a holistic design approach and moving beyond specialization. In the past specializations in pools and other elements led to disjointed outdoor spaces. A more cohesive, unified design is the new trend.
Kirk Bianchi “We often don’t create a cohesive environment in this industry.” The space is dominated by one person, who does not allow the other elements to work together.
Customizing Designs to Client Preferences
Bianchi understands that it is important to accommodate the individual needs and preferences for each client. He helps clients understand the importance of balancing function and form, and reminds them to prioritize a harmonious relationship with the landscape and natural surroundings.
Kirk Bianchi “You have to show the people that by making your pool too large, you will eat into the landscape area and that is what you are really seeing from inside.”
Kirk Bianchi “This has to all work together.” The theme is proportion. “Don’t create something that is disproportionately unsuitable for the space.”
Bianchi’s design approach for outdoor living and pools is a refreshing change from the overly complex and disjointed designs which are all too common. His work is distinguished by his focus on harmony, equilibrium, and immersive experiences. His commitment to understanding client needs and accommodating them ensures his designs are both functional as well as aesthetically pleasing. Kirk Bianchi is a designer that brings balance and artistry to outdoor living in a world filled with extravagant pools and chaotic back yards.
See the Bigger Picture
Bianchi’s design philosophy is built on collaboration. To achieve the excellence he aims for, he often needs a diverse group of experts. Collaboration is essential in the world of design and especially when it comes to complex projects. Kirk says, “That is how I work. I am not just a person at a company that only does pools. It’s how I got my start in the business. Because I started out on my own, as a designer that builds teams, I am able to recruit others. I do it on almost every project.”
In a number of projects, the pool was only part of the overall scope. In these cases, Kirk and his team tackled broader remodeling projects, such as house exteriors or reconfiguring structures. Kirk urges his colleagues to take a multi-disciplinary approach. He says, “Let your customers know what the big picture is.” You may be the first person to arrive, they have called you and are only beginning with you. You say, “You know what?” I have a bigger vision for your home than just a pool. We wouldn’t be able to deliver what is possible here.”
Teaching the Outside-In Approach
Kirk Bianchi, principal designer at Bianchi Designs and educator by profession, is a rare combination. He currently teaches Genesis a class on his outside-in method. This is a leading platform for pool professionals. As an educator, he can share his passion and knowledge for creating harmonious outdoor spaces with a new generation of pool and landscaping professionals.
Kirk teaches not only the skills needed to create exceptional outdoor living areas, but also the principles and philosophy that guide his design approach. Kirk plays an important role as an educator in shaping the industry. He instills in his students collaboration, balance and the integration between indoor and outdoor living spaces.
Kirk Bianchi “Teaching in Genesis allows me not only to teach how to build a pool or outdoor living area but also the philosophy behind them. It’s all about harmonizing space, understanding site and collaborating.
Listen to the entire interview with Kirk Bianchi, on the Pool Magazine Podcast.
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