Custom Craftsmanship Meets Structural Integrity: A Retaining Wall Built to Last

Key Takeaways 

• We built a retaining wall tough enough to safely support a pool and add extra usable space to the yard. 

• A custom-engineered column and reinforced wall system keep everything solid and secure for years to come. 

• The aluminum railing was handcrafted to follow the wall’s curve — no awkward angles, just a clean, seamless finish. 

At Maplehurst Outdoor Living, we believe every outdoor project should be as functional as it is beautiful — and sometimes, that means tackling unique challenges head-on. One of our recent projects perfectly captured this balance of custom high-quality craftsmanship and meticulous safety considerations: a retaining wall designed to support the weight of a pool while maximizing usable space for our client’s backyard. 

The primary challenge? Supporting the substantial weight of a pool sitting just behind the edge of the retaining wall. To address this, our team specially engineered a large structural column at that corner of the wall. This wasn’t just any column — it was designed to anchor and reinforce the corner, ensuring long-term stability and safety for the wall, pool and surrounding space. 

But we didn’t stop there. The wall itself was carefully constructed with integrated sleeves and a rebar cage system, providing a secure counterweight foundation for the railing posts. Inside the wall, we installed layers of geogrid reinforcement, adding vital structural strength to handle the immense pressure behind it. 

A standout feature of this project was the custom-built railing system. Because this railing would be a highly visible element of the finished space, we wanted it to feel intentional — not an afterthought. Instead of using traditional segmented railing that forces abrupt angles at each curve, we designed a continuous, flowing system that followed the natural radius of the retaining wall. Using aluminum, each section was carefully shaped to mirror the wall’s curve, then secured with sleek cable rails for a clean, modern finish. 

This thoughtful approach wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was also about safety. The custom railing ensures both form and function, providing secure support for the elevated space while complementing the wall’s design. It’s a seamless example of how engineering and craftsmanship can work together to create something both beautiful and built to last.

By addressing the structural complexities of this project with custom solutions and high-end materials, we not only delivered a stunning backyard feature — we created a safer, more usable space for our client to enjoy for years to come. 

Do you want to get more useable space out of your sloped yard? Reach out to Maplehurst Outdoor Living today!