Judith Sutton ABR CRS IDS PMN ASP IAHSP SRES GREEN
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TAKE THE PLUNGE!
Invited Guest Contributor: Scouted Guide
If you have felt the heat this summer and are longing to build your own pool to cool off in your very own backyard oasis, you’re not alone! Now is a good time to start planning your 2024 dream! Pool design, the actual build, and landscape architecture are what you need to consider before taking the plunge and bringing in the excavators. Here is some advice from the experts, to make sure your 2024 summer makes a big splash!
Contemplate the size and shape. Begin by envisioning what would work best in your yard. If space permits. Build a pool that is at minimum 14′ x 38′. This allows for an area for play, a tanning ledge, and a possible built-in spa. When it comes to shape, a rectangle is a timeless option that commands attention, however, in the right setting with the right backdrop, a more organic shape can absolutely make sense. If you’re tight on space and desperate for a way to cool off, smaller plunge pools are trending. A choice when families don’t want to give up valuable, recreational yard space.
Consider a tanning ledge. Trends will come and go, but right now tanning ledges, otherwise known as a wet deck or Baja shelf, are practical. This shallow shelf is popular for lounging, but it’s also the perfect spot for smaller children to play. Embed a shade umbrella directly into the shelf, so you can enjoy shade and the cool water.
Hire certified professionals. Note that not all contractors are alike. It is important to hire master-certified pool builders when possible, who have the proper schooling and education, as well as solid experience and a good reputation. It can also save you money in the long run to have an in-house design and build team. These types of firms help to streamline the process from day one through completion, covering everything from the permit process to the design, construction through maintenance. And if you’re interested in adding an outdoor kitchen, pergola, fire pit, and more, they can help with those decisions as well, being professionals.
Location. Location. Location. This is quite possibly one of the most important factors to consider when putting in a pool. Where you place your pool, especially if you have more than one possible site, should be carefully evaluated. The further you are from the main house, the more amenities you may need. It’s important to consider bathroom access, refrigeration, and even access to towels and laundry. A ‘destination’ pool can be a wonderful getaway, but plan on building a pool house to give you easy access to everything you may need.
Establish a proper budget. When planning to add a pool, it’s important to think of all of the costs involved. The pool construction process will include fencing, permit and engineering, and the involvement of an electrician and plumber. Additionally, going forward you will need to budget for water and maintenance.
Determine the use. This is the element that will inform all other decisions, so it’s wise to lead your with this question. How do you want to use it? Do you want to play in the pool or dive in the pool? A play pool is more on trend nowadays and will last for many different seasons of life. “A family with young children will be able to have a shallower area to stand and play, young kids can still jump in on the deeper side, and teenagers and adults could play sports and float around. A dive pool will shorten your shallow end, leaving you with a largely deep pool that you cannot stand in.
Work with a landscape architect. For the most cohesive—and beautiful—pool plan, work in collaboration with a landscape architect. As you design and plan, they can play a pivotal role in the overall surroundings, from materials to ambiance. For instance, there are some types of trees you want nowhere near a pool, and only a professional will be able to offer you the best guidance.
Think about your seating. Much of the time spent at your pool will be enjoyed poolside, instead of in the actual water. Ensure that the location of the seating area not only capitalizes on possible views but it also allows for the sun if there’s a lounging area. Allow for circulation, furniture, and the addition of decorative pots. It’s really important for the deck to be designed with the furniture to be used in mind.
Take a holistic approach. It’s important to note that when putting in a pool, there’s more to consider than just the pool. Think about decking and hardscaping—and all the details that will complement the pool. Make sure the stone you choose is cool on your feet—by using lighter colors and sand-blasted marbles. Also, mix pool decking materials. In a free-form pool, mix a rock salt concrete finish with wood decking to give it the appearance of a dock on a lake. You can also mix natural stone with synthetic turf. It’s a great look for a reasonable cost with zero maintenance! And we can all relate to that!
Heating- a great feature to add in our area is Hot tubs; otherwise known as spas. This might have fallen out of fashion for a while, but they’re back bigger than ever, and they can be one of your best features. One of the most recent trends is a raised spa that offers a lovely waterfall effect into the main pool. The spa can offer a design element with the installation of beautiful tiles.
Live, Life and Love! The pool of your dreams will come true with plenty of thought and planning!
For the love of success,
For the love of driving your home forward,
Adding value for my clients and loving where we live!
Judy@JudithSutton.com
COLDWELL BANKER...GUIDING PEOPLE HOME SINCE 1906
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