Design Considerations When Building a Pool
It seems like everyone is trying to make their backyards the place to be! If you are thinking about putting in a pool it can be overwhelming with how many choices and decisions, you must make. Start here to get your design ideas flowing and, read below to make a list of what you want. Then when meeting with different landscape architects and pool companies you can have an efficient and productive meeting.
Function
What do you want to do in your pool? Knowing what your goals are will inform many of the decisions below. Do you plan on epic dive contests, water volleyball, or simply lounging? Is the sound of water falling a must? Do you want a spa? All these things are important to consider before you think about anything else. Make a list so you do not forget anything when you meet with the pool experts.
Shape
Do you want a free form pool or a linear pool or something in between? Free form pools typically look more natural whereas linear pools tend to have a more modern aesthetic. The pendulum swings back and forth between what is popular in the “now”, however neither is a bad choice. In the end it really depends on what you want to look at when enjoying your back yard.
Location
When making this decision, think about the shape of your house. If your house is symmetrical, putting a pool to one side of the yard might look strange. Instead centering it will help keep the balance and flow of your home Pool placement is also impacted by what other functions you have in your background. Ensuring you have enough room to safely enjoy other backyard activities is important.
Color
Ok. I know this is your pool and you should have what you want. However, I can never fully take off my stager hat. I highly recommend staying neutral in your finishes, because seriously less is more. Why? When you go to sell your house which might be in 5 years or 25 years, if you have a highly personalized pool with your favorite hunter green tile, you will limit your buying pool because color is personal. Stick with neutrals and avoid patterns. This will create a less busy, more visually appealing finished product that can appeal to everyone. Bring your favorite colors in with your accessories. Added bonus is that you can change them however often your tastes change!
Budget
Pools vary WIDELY in cost by location. Don’t expect to pay Arizona and Florida prices in the rest of the country. Knowing what your budget is will help you narrow down your options when speaking to the pool professionals. The best advice I can give is that you should stay within your budget. Maybe Gunite is out of your range, that is ok! If covering the entire area in travertine versus concrete puts you over budget, go with concrete. After all, a pool is an investment in fun not something that is likely to make you money long term.
Hopefully you now have a good idea of what you want your pool to look like generally. If not, we can help you figure out what you want. Click Here. Next step is to hire the right professional to build it!