Not so long ago, there was nothing more desirable than owning a swimming pool to take away the heat of a hot summer day. Now it is more than just a haven of cool, an essential addition to the family home or a feature that can so dramatically overhaul an entire backyard.
Dozens of homeowners are now opting for custom made pools that suit their way of life, personal style and the layout of their property. This article will explain all you need to know about conceptualising and designing your own.
Why a Custom Pool Adds Value to Your Home
A good design is more than just aesthetic though. It can add value to your property and make your house more marketable. When you go with a Custom Swimming Pool Builder, you know that your design will be built to the exact size and shape of your yard and not shoehorned into and adapted to an off the shelf design.
Customization allows you to incorporate features not often found in a standard design to suit your lifestyle, such as shallow end areas for the kids, built in seating areas or a seamless transition between the surrounding environment and your new pool area.
Key Elements of a Well Designed Pool
An important component to every good pool project is the designer’s stage. Think in advance about the way the pool is going to be used. Some homeowners are after a pool for peace and quiet out in the garden and other homeowners want a pool ready for serious training, some want to entertain guests, and some want a combination of all those.
When choosing the location, take into account the size of the yard, the position of fences, trees, or permanent buildings, and the position of the sun throughout the day. Then after deciding on the best location, think about safety, particularly if children and animals will be using the pool. An enclosed area with a locked fence, non-slip surfaces, and clear depth markings are important but often overlooked.
Think also about how people will get in and out of the pool, whether it be the conventional steps, a seated ledge, a ramp, or even a beach access. Avoid costly mistakes by having all these considerations decided on before the construction begins.
Choosing the Right Design for Your Backyard
Thankfully, there is no cookie cutter shape of pool that suits every home, which is why more and more homes are being built with custom pools. Some homeowners opt for the classic rectangular shape and result in a simple square feel which suits a modern interior or minimalist style.
Alternatively a freeform shape that complements the natural flow of the surrounding landscape can give the yard a relaxed and unforced air, with a sense of the organic. Infinity edge pools are another much loved option as they bring a stunning look especially on a property with a view. Each specific shape is dependent on the size of the available space, the style of the house and how the family will generally use the pool.
Materials and Features That Make a Pool Stand Out
The choice of materials for your pool project has a significant visual impact as well as influencing the long term strength of the space. How about the look and feel of natural stone, textured concrete or glass tile?
Many homeowners are now looking to have more than just a place to cool down, but an entire outdoor lifestyle space for year round use. Waterfalls, fire pits, tanning ledges and integrated spas are all popular additions that significantly enhance the site, but equally so is lighting which can make your pool just as enjoyable after dark.
Consideration should also be given to energy efficient pumps and intuitive control systems for long term running costs and ease of maintenance. Those who invest a little time can create that complete look without the need for future additions.
When to Consider Updating an Older Pool
Of course, a new build isn’t always necessary. Often, a homeowner may already have a pool that they feel no longer suits their needs or complements their home. For those projects, a new update can be very significant, at a much cheaper price than a new build. And this is where Custom Pool Remodeling can be very useful, whether that involves just updating various surfaces and adding new features, or enlarging the pool or changing its overall shape and layout. Most problems that indicate your pool is in need of a remodel come as cracks, or oxidation, from damaged tiling, old equipment, or badly affected decking. Updating these elements can significantly change the overall pool, making it more visually appealing and easier to run.
Planning Your Pool Project Step by Step
Most successful pools follow a clear process. This process can sometimes seem overwhelming, but that is usually because the pool is being built on someone’s property. Starting with an initial consultation with a licensed designer, the results can be tremendous. This initial consultation between the architect and client will reveal the goals of the client, the budget, and the design ideas.
Several options will be made and implemented into a plan that will detail the overall shape, the materials to be used, and any included or related features. Most states require permits to be filed before construction on a pool begins so it is always wise to be aware of all relevant regulations. Construction timelines depend on size and scope, but as long as the developer and investor communicate clearly, there is no reason a pool should not be done on time and on budget.
Maintenance Tips for a Long Lasting Pool
Proper maintenance after initial construction is essential to keep your inground or aboveground pool operating properly. If you are thoughtful about checking your chemical balance regularly you will stay ahead of algae build up while also ensuring your pool water is healthy enough to swim safely.
Frequent filter cleaning and skimming for foreign objects is recommended during the course of a heated season. Scheduling an occasional inspection of your pumps or heaters can also allow for minor repairs to be made, extending the life of your equipment and increasing the value of your property.
Final Thoughts on Building or Updating a Pool
Whether you are designing a new pool or just upgrading, planning and proper design are crucial. A pool is a significant expense in your house and lifestyle, so choosing carefully in design, features and maintenance means more enjoyment from your space over time. And a careful design should enhance the space for many years.
About Aqua Architects
Aqua Architects is a team passionate about designing and building that pool tailored to your individual needs. They pride themselves on craftsmanship and attention to detail and work together with their clients from conception to completion. Whether building you a new pool or converting your existing one, they would love to help you create your perfect outdoor space to share with your family.
With a Master’s in Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley, Alexander Martin has dedicated the last 18 years to enhancing outdoor living through thoughtful and robust structure design. His career kicked off in urban planning, giving him a unique perspective on integrating structures into diverse environments. In 2019, Alexander brought his expertise to our website, offering insights into creating versatile outdoor spaces. Since then, he has been the lead advisor for our outdoor design projects and is known for his ability to merge functionality with environmental consciousness. Alexander enjoys rock climbing outside of work and participates in community development projects, activities that reflect his passion for the outdoors and sustainable design.
