Like everything else in home and landscape design, pool trends and features change over time. If you’re planning on installing or updating your pool, here are a few design trends worth considering.
At James River Construction (JRC)
The mild Central Virginia spring weather draws us all back outside, but soon enough these moderate temperatures will rise sharply, which may have you dreaming about poolside summer days. There are over 10 million residential pools in the US, a testament to how much they can improve the enjoyment of one’s outdoor space. But like everything else in home and landscape design, pool trends and features change over time. If you’re planning on installing or updating your pool, here are a few design trends worth considering.
INTERGRATED LANDSCAPING
Sometimes installing a large pool comes at the cost of landscaping. But savvy pool designers and landscape architects have found ways to integrate the two. This well designed hardscape incorporates hardy tropical plants for an organic element that mimics a desert oasis. Using plants that thrive in an arid environment means less watering is needed and having deep soil or grassy areas for them to grow is unnecessary.
Natural stones that match the tone of the patio pavers keeps the look subtle and cohesive.
SUNBATHING LEDGES
Sunbathing ledges have become increasingly popular for pool owners who want to enjoy a cool dip without completely submerging themselves in water. These shallow concrete ledges at the entry edge of a pool are usually only one to two feet deep and wide enough to stretch out and relax on. If you want the lounge factor without the potential sun damage, ledges can incorporate built-in stands or holders that fit standard outdoor umbrellas so you can relax in the shade.
Zero entry pools (also known as beach entry pools) allow for easy lounging without full submersion. This style gradually slopes into the water much like a sandy beach. This style doesn’t require hoisting oneself up a ladder or over the edge of the pool which is an excellent option for individuals with limited mobility. The shallow end provided by the beach entry allows children to have an area to play and splash without having to worry about them being in water that is too deep.
LUXURY POOL HOUSES
Pool houses are no longer just a place to hide pump equipment and store floats. These stand alone structures are a great opportunity to create a whole getaway in your own backyard.
Fully finished pool houses are a convenient way to keep soggy messes out of your main house. By providing easier access to a bathroom, shower or even kitchenette, you can keep the wet towels and people confined to a more appropriate place.
This pool house with a kitchenette, full bathroom and comfy living space including a TV keeps the party completely outside, or at least in a separate semi-outside space. High performance fabrics and materials were chosen with damp guests in mind.
They can still provide great storage for extra towels, floats, chemicals and tools while also being a private spot for changing and cleaning up.
A pool house also provides an opportunity to create a covered patio or lounge area to enjoy the atmosphere of the pool in a cooler, shady spot.
WATER FEATURES
Some of the most popular additions to pool designs include the integration of more water. Waterfalls especially create a soothing sound and elevate a pool to a truly relaxing environment.
Having a running water feature in your pool can also help keep the temperature down, which is important in hot, humid climates or for pools that get full sun each day. There’s nothing refreshing about getting into a pool that feels like bathwater, so talk to your pool designer about water features that can help avoid this issue.
Whether natural or architectural in style, a water feature can bring an elegant addition to your outdoor oasis.