The focal point of the Donnell landscape design is a sculpture by Adaline Kent, which serves as an island in the center of the kidney-shaped pool. Dive in and take a tour of the many designs of kidney-shaped pools. Although not a true kidney-shaped pool, this freeform-style swimming pool was a sensation when it was designed for the Donnell family in 1948. Featured in home and design magazines and books, the pool was designed by noted landscape architect Thomas Church, along with landscape architect Lawrence Halprin. Interestingly, the swimming pool, patio, and garden were built before the house was erected. The Donnell family chose a favorite spot in Sonoma on top of a hill overlooking San Francisco Bay, where they frequently gathered for picnics and family parties. While considered freeform, the boomerang shape (or kidney) consists of two shapes set at 45-degree angles. The island-situated sculpture in the middle of the pool was created by Adaline Kent. The house, garden, and swimming pool continues to be a popular attraction on garden and architecture tours. The pool appears to have jets, which indicates this pool is used for warmth, relaxation and entertaining. Two separate pathways lead from different parts of the house to the pool.
