Although not a true kidney-shaped pool, this free-form -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 free-form, 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 continue to be a popular attraction on garden and architecture tours.
