2014 APSP International Awards of Excellence

The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals

ur clients contacted us to transform their dated pool into an aesthetically pleasing water feature they could enjoy with friends and take pleasure in seeing when they arrived home. The existing pool and spa are prominently featured in the front yard and are a focal point for everyone to appreciate as they arrive at the estate. One of the goals for the remodel was to create a synergetic relationship between the native oak trees, rock outcroppings and man-made swimming pool. The original design did not have a fluid continuity between the materials used, creating awkward transitions. The pools vanishing edge wall leaked through cracks in the gunite down into an undersized catch basin and a traditional pool sweep detracted from the sense of a natural body of water flowing down stream. After removing the original plaster finish from the gunite shell, we found several areas of soft gunite that needed to be removed. An additional 6 of water depth was added to the existing catch basin to gain the correct holding capacity. One section of the pool wall was extended up to create a new seat wall at the edge of the patio. The floor of the existing pool and catch basin were cut out and a new Paramount in-floor cleaning system was installed. The entire pool was re-plumbed, the skimmer was replaced and a new equipment pad was constructed. Throughout the construction process we did our best to minimize the impact our construction work had on the mature landscaping and oak trees that surround the pool. To evoke life along a waterway, we converted the attached spa into a patio area wrapped by a waterfall flowing into the pool. The new waterfall provides a source of flowing water into the pool before streaming over the weir wall. A reduced water flow over the vanishing edge wall creates an enjoyable sound of water movement. Sierra Boulders from the surrounding foothills create the waterfalls and are notched into the pools water line to elevate the sense of a natural body of water.

Lakehouse Retreat

Carolina V. Gentry, RID

This lakeside home was completely refurbished inside and out to accommodate 16 guests in a stylish, hotel-like setting. Owned by a long-time client of Pulp, this home reflects the owner's personal style -- well-traveled and eclectic -- while also serving as a landing pad for her large family. With spa-like guest bathrooms equipped with robes and lotions, guest bedrooms with multiple beds and high-quality comforters, and a party deck with a bar/entertaining area, this is the ultimate getaway.

Piney Point

McHale Landscape Design, Inc.

Spaulding
Example of a mid-sized eclectic front yard rectangular pool design in DC Metro

Pools

V.I.Photography & Design

V.I.Photography & Design
Example of an eclectic front yard stone and custom-shaped pool design in Orange County

Lakehouse Retreat

Carolina V. Gentry, RID

Casale il sogno

Studio Arch-è

Pool - large eclectic front yard stone and custom-shaped infinity pool idea in Other

hard landscaping - various projects

Helét van Blerk

Example of an eclectic front yard concrete paver and rectangular infinity pool design in Other

SARUNI OCEAN RESORT

Massimiliano Lusetti Ingegnere - MyArching

Foto By Max Lusetti
Pool fountain - huge eclectic front yard concrete infinity pool fountain idea in Other

déMarti studio | Outdoor Design | Pool Area

DÉMARTISTUDIO

Hot tub - huge eclectic front yard rectangular natural hot tub idea with decking

Eclectic Front Yard Pool Ideas

On a hot summer day, nothing is as refreshing as an eclectic swimming pool. Although often seen as a luxury, they can serve many functions and be well worth the splurge in the right area. Besides being a nice place to relax and cool off, eclectic pools can add much-needed visual interest to your yard — think colorful tiles or a unique water feature. Read further and browse photos for more tips on how to make your eclectic pool ideas a reality. In your location, swimming pools might also be a solid investment; buyers practically require them places with hot summers and mild winters, so installing or updating one could help your home sell. As you get ready to start your in-ground pool and spa remodel, map out your space and consider what size, shape and style might work best for you. Having an idea in mind when you talk with a specialist will help the process go smoothly.

What are my eclectic swimming pool design options?

Location, size and desired activity will determine which pool designs might work best for you. If you live somewhere that’s warm only four months out of the year, an outdoor pool might not be worth the splurge — though an indoor one might. Regardless of whether you go with indoor or outdoor, the size of the space will dictate the shape of the pool. Carefully consider how much space you want to dedicate to the entire project; if you start adding extras, like a pool deck and specialty landscaping, your yard-to-pool ratio can quickly become unbalanced. With a long and narrow space, look for eclectic rectangular lap pool design ideas that might fit well; wider areas will give you more freedom to have a specialty shape, which means the options are endless. Similarly, various installation techniques are more suited to certain lifestyles. In-ground swimming pools are a major (potentially lifetime) commitment. Construction, maintenance and energy bills add up, so make sure you’re ready to take that plunge. If you aren’t ready for that sort of commitment, consider an alternative, such as an above-ground pool or a hot tub. The above-ground options can be set up when the weather permits, so you still get to enjoy the warm summer months without sacrificing your yard year round. Make sure you have proper storage for the unit when it’s not in use though. Are you one of the many who see more cold than warm weather? A hot tub will surely see more use and is not quite such a daunting commitment, both financially and maintenance-wise. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you think the costs and upkeep are worth the time you will spend enjoying it.

What materials should I incorporate into my eclectic pool design?

The quality of your materials can easily dictate the life of your swimming pool or spa. Although vinyl is often the cheapest option, it also is the least durable, so it will need to be replaced more frequently. Concrete and fiberglass swimming pool designs are popular, sturdy options, while metal above ground units last longer than plastic ones. To liven up blah concrete or fiberglass, consider adding a colorful mosaic tile border or an interesting stone water feature. Some of the best eclectic pool ideas incorporate seamlessly into the landscape design by using natural-looking materials, or by using an infinity edge. Regardless of what you do, the short-term costs shouldn't be your only consideration; consider long-term maintenance and repair costs as well, like replacing broken tiles or fixing leaks and cracks.

What eclectic swimming pool extras and accessories can I add?

There are plenty of eclectic swimming pool ideas that will help magnify their fun factor. Install a diving board, slide or small waterfall to make swimming more enjoyable, and add floats, toys and loungers for ultimate relaxation. A cabana can help with entertaining during parties, while an outdoor shower and changing station come in handy once you're ready to head indoors. Adding ample seating and sun protection, like chaise lounges and umbrellas, will ensure everyone can enjoy the pool, even if they aren’t in it. Browse eclectic pictures of pools to see how others have enhanced their setups, then incorporate your favorite ideas into your own new build or remodel. Learn more about the cost to build a pool