→ French chef and restauranteur, Daniel Boulud is quoted as saying, “Kitchens should be designed around what is important—fun, food, and life.” The same desire for what is important is found in the designs of outdoor kitchens and alfresco entertainment spaces. Creative ideas and enhanced innovation are delivering the ultimate in outdoor enjoyment, dining, and living. IDEAS PERSONALIZED. The importance delivered in design ideas for outdoor kitchens begins from a very personal as well as practical perspective. “We have found that outdoor spaces have taken on a new personality in recent years,” says Lisa Davenport, founder and CEO, LDD Interiors. “They are no longer just outdoor spaces; but truly extensions of the home. The options available for [outdoor] cabinetry are as plentiful as those for interiors and appliances are expanding to…
Cosmic Design Studio was founded with a clear mission: to redefine the very concept of outdoor spaces in the city. Recognizing a significant gap in the market for truly holistic and luxurious outdoor design, the firm emerged to fill this void, offering a unique blend of analytical precision and creative aesthetics. At the heart of Cosmic Design Studio’s success is the dynamic partnership of its founders. Chris Carter brings a strong foundation in architecture, paired with sharp analytical abilities and deep industry insight. His technical expertise is perfectly complemented by Masha Carter’s creative vision and aesthetic sensibility, further enhanced by her marketing acumen. This combination of complementary strengths forms the cornerstone of the company’s synergy, fueling its growth and enabling the delivery of outdoor living experiences that are not only…
For years in the world of pool design, the mantra has been the same: encourage outdoor living by offering all the same beauty and amenities found in homes. In other words, create a space that provides plenty of cushy seating, a dizzying array of entertainment options, gorgeous and thoughtful design elements, and the ability to prepare fabulous food and drink. “The most interesting design trends emphasize the overall focus on outdoor family living and entertainment,” says Ed Gibbs, president of Toronto-based Gib-San Pools. “This has been a constant for many years.” Today, eager homeowners are asking for even more out of their outdoor living spaces. As a result, advancing technology and new techniques—not to mention pool designers and builders—are rising to meet that challenge. RESORT INSPIRATION Inspired by their travels,…
HILLSIDE HAVEN The design of this outdoor living space seamlessly blends the elegance of a transitional modern home with the natural contours of the sloped terrain. At the heart of this project lies an infinity edge pool and an array of captivating water features. Project Team DDLA Design Landscape Architecture Marlin Landscape Park Lane Pools Signature Illumination Designs Tatum Brown Custom Homes WATERFRONT ELEGANCE Featuring myriad spaces for relaxation and entertainment, this waterfront retreat features multiple pools and bodies of water, various fire features, a unique rain curtain, and a world-class sculptural fountain. Project Team Aqua Builders LaRue Architects Brian Long Custom Homes Britt Design Group Garden Design Studio CIRCULAR STUNNER This pool, spa, and outdoor living area boasts custom mosaic patterns, Wi-Fi controlled applications and utilities, LED lighting, drought…
Let’s face it: Everyone wants resortstyle luxury recreated in their pool at home. But achieving a luxurious pool experience doesn’t necessarily require complication or ornamentation. Sometimes simple is best. There are properties and lifestyles that lend themselves to waterfalls, fountains, fire bowls, pergolas, lazy rivers, and other striking features. But the nation’s top pool experts are also adept at taking a more minimalistic approach to creating the ultimate backyard oasis. When a client wants clean lines and a sleek silhouette, these designers know how to keep things quiet without sacrificing sophistication. POINT OF VIEW “A lot of our projects are on the coast—properties with extravagant ocean views,” says Andy Kaner, president of Aquatic Consultants, Inc., in Miami, Florida. “When you design a pool for a gorgeous setting, you don’t want…
Close your eyes and imagine a place of peace. Feel the tranquility wash over you. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could experience that same serenity on your porch, patio, or poolside as soon as you step outside? “In today’s fast-paced, alwaysconnected world, having a personal oasis offers an escape from daily stress. Creating a serene environment promotes relaxation and helps people reconnect with nature, enabling them to unwind and restore. This sense of peace is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, making it a crucial element in luxury home design,” says Jack Albanese, Global Marketing Manager at Twinscape. Ready to relax? We spoke with Albanese and other experts to help you bring peace to your home. PLUNGE INTO PEACE Plunge pools offer a personal sanctuary that captures the essence…
Aquatic Consultants, Inc. is an internationally recognized leader in the design and planning of pools, spas, water features, ponds, and outdoor living areas. They provide complete design services and detailed plans for residential and commercial water environments of all types. Over 10 years ago they stopped building and instead focus all their time and energy on design. As such, Aquatic Consultants is involved in a greater range of projects worldwide, with recent projects in Africa, Sri Lanka, Greece, and Caribbean Islands, as well as local projects near their home base in Miami, Florida. Among recent projects are the new main pool at the Hamilton Princess Hotel and Beach Club in Bermuda; Ani Villas pools and water features in both Sri Lanka and the Dominican Republic; and several projects for Sir…
From automated pool systems to voice activated lighting and energy-efficient designs, smart technologies (many of them driven by AI), increasingly are commanding a starring role in outdoor spaces. Justin Reyes, pool marketing and training manager at Raypak, a Rheem company, notes that although automation and smart technology are not new to the pool industry, the collaboration among big-brand manufacturers and their collective focus on innovations around AI is evolving. “As this happens, we’re going to witness the next evolutionary stage in the pool design space,” he says. “Consumers and builders continue to push the envelope when it comes to designing the perfect backyard oasis, and it’s only going to get better and smarter from here.” AquaStar, Poolside Tech and Raypak/Rheem, aka “The New 3,” he says, have partnered to bring a…
Whether palatial or boutique, resort-like experiences are just what homeowners are seeking for their personal “great outdoors.” From amenities to ambiance, backyard spaces are becoming destinations for not only delivering outdoor living functionality, but also a healthy dose of outdoor fun. “The fun we are incorporating into client projects like lazy rivers or water slides, swim up bars or sunken firepits all are based on the vibe the client is seeking,” says Ryan Hughes, founder and creative director, Ryan Hughes Design Build. “However, fun for a busy family can be vastly different from that of a leisure-seeking single or a couple wanting to kite surf from their waterfront. It all has fun at its core, but can come from multiple design perspectives.” Hughes has taken his interest in boutique resorts…
In the expansive plains of Wichita, Kansas—where wind-swept landscapes meet suburban dreams—Edwards Pool Construction stands as a beacon of innovation and craftsmanship in the swimming pool industry. Father-daughter duo Steve and Averi Edwards are the driving force behind this family-run business, guiding it from humble beginnings into a regional leader renowned for high-end gunite pools that marry artistry with engineering precision. Founded in 2008 by Steve Edwards, a self-taught visionary with more than 25 years of experience, Edwards Pool Construction has built its reputation on bespoke backyard retreats that are as functional as they are breathtaking. From elegant spas and vanishing edges to elaborate lazy rivers and integrated water features, every Edwards pool is designed to be a personal sanctuary Steve’s journey into pool construction began long before the company…
From the ancient Roman baths to intimate plunge pools at luxury resorts, small pools have long been understatedly glamorous. But as the “bigger is better” ethos took over everything from cheeseburger meals to backyard living, small pools went by the wayside in favor of expansive poolscapes, sprawling water features, and endless outdoor amenities. Now, though, everything classic is new again, and small pools are making a comeback, as homeowners are increasingly appreciative of the economic, ecological, and aesthetic benefits of smaller vessels. “We don’t believe that pools need to be the size of Texas to achieve all the things that a bigger pool does,” says Amy Hageman, owner and founder of Austin-based Texas Tiny Pools. “You’re not sacrificing something by going smaller.” Here are four reasons why you should consider…
Looking to add some drama to your outdoor living space? No need to recreate a Hollywood set when Mother Nature has a myriad of tools and tricks to captivate your family and friends. Fire and water combine to create a beautiful and dramatic effect when implemented properly, notes David Pavlesic of Paragon Pools. “The fire’s reflection dances across the water’s surface and creates an ever-changing look from any direction. Depending on the fire feature and water element, the variations affect both visual and audible elements, as well as physical and functionality,” says Pavlesic. CUSTOM VS. PREFAB FIRE FEATURES He notes a plethora of prefabricated fire features, including fire bowls, tiki torches and architectural elements that have fire as well as custom features. “We like to create custom features that are not…
Aquatic Consultants, Inc. is an internationally recognized leader in the design and planning of pools, spas, water features, ponds, and outdoor living areas. They provide complete design services and detailed plans for residential and commercial water environments of all types. Over 15 years ago they stopped building and instead focus all their time and energy on design. As such, Aquatic Consultants is involved in a greater range of projects worldwide, with recent projects in Africa, Sri Lanka, Greece, France, Bermuda and Caribbean Islands, Mexico, Central and South America, as well as local projects near their home base in Miami, Florida and throughout the USA. Among recent projects are the new main pool at the Hamilton Princess Hotel and Beach Club in Bermuda; Ani Villas pools and water features in both Sri…
Whether it’s for pure relaxation, an energizing yoga session, or a mental escape from the world, a serene outdoor setting under a blue sky is the way to go. As wellness trends have accelerated, pool designers and landscape experts are taking a sophisticated step in the design of outdoor settings that awaken all the senses: beautiful architecture, fresh plantings, cascading water features, and lighting, all working together to help create a blissful state of mind. The Miami firm Choeff Levy Fischman specializes in tropical modern architecture and design, with a focus on sustainability. Arresting natural components—exotic stones, South American woods, and exotic plants—combined with refined water features around pools and reflecting ponds, create a soothing setting. Many of the firm’s designs include spa-like features and yoga decks that subtly connect…
Design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about understanding its purpose and crafting it into an experience. Cosgrove Custom Pools has mastered this art, turning design into a symphony of functionality and beauty. They are not just a pool company but creators of complete outdoor living environments. From luxury pools to luxury living, they curate every aspect of your outdoor space, backed by unparalleled craftsmanship. With a holistic approach to outdoor living, Cosgrove Custom Pools is more than a name – it’s a promise to redefine outdoor living. They go beyond the conventional to create outdoor spaces that resonate with your lifestyle. Their expertise extends to pool houses, kitchens, shade structures, fire features, decorative concrete, water elements, landscape areas, and more. Cosgrove Custom Pools is not just designing elements; they…
Project Team Danny Wang Design DW Development Project Team Cross River Design Chester Pools PAIHomes Consulting Project Team Van Kirk & Sons Pools & Spas Dan Quong, Designer Project Team J.Brownlee Design (Landscape Architect/Designer) Parkinson Building Group (Builder/General Contractor) Watershape Consulting, Inc. (Engineer) Project Team Liquid Evolution Pools Brimley Development Refined Gardens Project Team Premier Paradise, Inc. JMAX Pool Plumbing Project Team Van Kirk & Sons Pools & Spas Valerie Scheuermann, Designer Project Team So Cal Custom Pools & Spas Mark V. Agee Construction Project Team Ryan Hughes Design Build Jeff Zock, Landscape Architect Project Team Premier Paradise, Inc. JMax Pool Plumbing Project Team Pool Environments, Inc. Archiverde, LLC Randy Angell Designs Project Team Ryan Hughes Design Build Jeff Zock, Landscape Architect Project Team Medallion Pool Company Project Team Mosaicist,…
From decks to kitchens, designers are creating extraordinary outdoor entertaining rooms for al fresco living that incorporate a range of sophisticated and opulent materials in innovative ways. Equally aesthetic and functional, these spaces seamlessly connect the indoors and outdoors, creating scenes for ultimate relaxation and infinite memories. THE LAYERED LOOK Tying together the levels and layers of outdoor entertainment spaces, which are becoming ever more elaborate and expansive, is an art. At Ryan Hughes Design, the all-encompassing vision of over-the-top designs involves not only the amenities, which range from chef’s kitchens to lounging pavilions, but also material selection. Travertine and marble, which represent value and versatility, are the main go-tos for hardscapes for pool decks, says Ryan Hughes, president and creative director of the Florida-based firm that bears his name, who…
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT This remodeled poolscape in Florida boasts three water walls that flow into a perimeter overflow reflecting fountain. Custom fire features and thoughtful landscaping create a soothing environment. Project Team Ike’s Carter Pool Companies, Inc. Premier Paradise MEET ME IN MIAMI This infinity-edge pool is accentuated by a threesided Lautner knifeedge deck. A sunken living room, fire pit, cabana, bar, and kitchen complete the space. Project Team Aquatic Consultants, Inc.; Choeff Levy Fischman; Chris Cawley Landscape Architecture; and LFL Development POINT OF VIEW Creating lines of sight were critical to this design to accomplish a flowing point of view from the home’s exterior glass doors, over the overflowing spa, and across the pool to the sunken fire lounge. Project Team Ryan Hughes Design/Build; Aquatic Glazing; and Lucas…
Everyone loves a backyard with a beautiful pool, but many of the best moments with family and friends don’t actually involve swimming in the pool itself. Instead, those special times take place around the pool: sipping cocktails at the bar in the outdoor kitchen; roasting marshmallows around the fire pit; playing bocce or horseshoes on the lawn; dancing on the deck; or cuddling in a hammock while watching the stars. That’s been especially true in recent years, as the pandemic challenged people to find new ways to spend time with loved ones and socialize outdoors. Whether dining alfresco or relaxing by a fire pit, entertaining-friendly hardscaped and decking designs create the ultimate outdoor spaces that are sure to bring friends and family together all year long. Here are five trends…
From art-centric diving boards to mono-grammed mosaic murals, personalization is the key to creating outdoor entertainment centers that showcase the pool. These unique features, sometimes subtly conveyed through colors and materials, put a personality on each project. Here are some of the things designers are doing to create these site-specific and owner-specific one-of-a-kind spaces. MOSAIC MAGIC Modern technology and old-world artistry have taken pool-bottom mosaics to new heights and depths. Ray Corral, the founder and CEO of Florida-based Mosaicist, Inc, one of the few companies in the world that designs, manufactures, and installs a wide array of mosaic art pieces for underwater applications, ups the personalization ante by matching his intricate designs not only to the shape of the pool but also to the architecture of the house. For a…
Once the trademark of luxury resorts and tony theme parks, the lazy river increasingly is becoming a key element in high-end residential poolscapes that emulate the exclusive experience of five-star vacation resorts. By definition, a lazy river is a shallow pool that features currents that flow like a river to allow people to float leisurely along on rafts, inner tubes or pool noodles or shoot the rapids for a wild ride, but that description bears little resemblance to the spectacular designs that are being produced. Typically, lazy rivers feature not only a swimming pool but also an amenity-packed island—the elements are linked by a bridge. Regardless of the size or styles, from waterslides to swim-up bars, lazy rivers have the ability to engage and entertain the entire family. “They are…
If ever there were a time for a staycation, this is it. Your outdoor space is your private oasis, and however you want to revel in it, there are landscape designers, aquatic experts, and pool builders offering Zen-style serenity to ultra-exciting features. In the hands of Benjamin Lasseter and Scott Cummings of Design Ecology/Design Aquatics in Austin, outdoor home properties become a work of art. While their work is international, Central Texas—with its wide-open spaces and hot weather—represents their biggest market. One project in Austin started as a simple remodel and cabana near the house. It quickly evolved into completely replacing the existing pool, pool decking, pool house addition to the main home, and pavilion area. Pathways of light pink decomposed granite, defined with limestone boulders, lead to a formal…
