In the midst of a sweltering hot Texas summer, we’re dreaming about a lounging by the beach with a margarita in hand, and a cool breeze. But since we’re quite a few hours away from the ocean, a luxurious pool will have to suffice. After speaking to Lance Dickinson with Harold Leidner Landscape Architects, it’s obvious that not all pools are created equal.
From technology that enables you to heat the pool to your liking from anywhere, to haute finishes that make you feel like you’re at an exclusive resort, there’s no reason why your pool shouldn’t be your mini getaway. With a little bit of guidance from the proper experts, you can easily turn your pool into your sanctuary.
Here are some current pool trends from Harold Leidner Landscape Architects you want to know about:
Five-star Resort Tile
“All-tile finishes, particularly glass tile, can elevate the aesthetic of a pool to that of a luxury hotel or resort,” Dickinson says. “Many of the plaster or pebble tec finishes provide a nice feel, but there is something about the touch and feel of small tiles that takes it to the next level.”
Note:
– Discuss the size, material and source of tile with your landscape architect to choose the best for your vision
– Consider reputable tile brands such as Bisazza, Sicis, and Oceanside Glass
“You typically get what you pay for on glass tile, so if you are considering this option, don’t cut corners here, you may regret it. Avoid tiles with netting on the backside and always insist on face mount tile for the best adhesion of the tile to the pool,” Dickinson adds.
Sexy Sun Deck
“ Another popular feature that we are often including in our designs are tanning ledges. Also known as sun deck, sun benches or wading areas, these shallow areas have become very popular and are often seen in many of the hotels and resort pools,” Dickinson says. “They can provide an opportunity for interacting with the water without being fully submerged and can also be a great area for smaller children or pets.”
Note:
– Be sure to factor in the size of any lounges you would like to put into the pool so they integrate into the finished design
– Your furniture selection must be able to handle the water
Sleek Pool Edges
“One way to achieve a similar look [to a negative edge or infinity pool] is to use a gutter or flush edge detail around the perimeter of the pool — this detail raises the water up to match the level of the surrounding decking and provides a narrow gap in the paving to contain and drain the water,” Dickinson says. “It certainly creates an exceptional effect and adds a modern flare to the pool design. It also allows the extent of the water and appearance of the pool size to increase as the water extends over the top of the perimeter wall instead of stopping at the inside edge.”
Note:
– Consider the activity level in your pool so you can anticipate waves created from swimming
– In a high-activity environment, surges of water will splash onto deck
Get Techy
“Beyond the design trends, we have also seen an evolution in the pool technologies over the last few years, which provides benefits for the homeowner in both energy efficiency and convenience,” Dickinson says. “Variable speed pool pumps have now become the standard and will provide a quiet and more efficient result. Interactive controls have also become a standard for both pool owners and pool professionals.”
Note:
– In using iPhones and iPads, homeowners can control almost every aspect of their pool including lights, fountains, spas and covers. The iPhone/iPad can enable you to control the temperature of the pool from anywhere.
– Remote monitoring allows your maintenance company to log in from anywhere to check what is going on the equipment and system.
– Check with your pool builder and maintenance company to see if they have the capability to incorporate this into their service.
Rachael Abrams is a personal chef and freelance writer who is obsessed with home decor and practically mainlines Pinterest. Find out more about Rachael and her excellent taste by following her on Twitter.
