Table of contents for Spring/Summer 2020 in Luxury Pools Magazine (Digital)

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Ordinary outdoor living spaces have long been transformed into luxurious environments, with exotic landscaping, rippling waterfalls, and unique hardscapes made with the finest materials. Thanks to ever-evolving artistic techniques and elements, why not lavish your outdoor spaces with features that turn them into works of art? Commercial and residential properties alike can punch up their pool floors, gardens, and outdoor entertaining spaces with handcrafted tile designs, mosaics, and more. LUNADA BAY TILE Lunada Bay Tile creates handcrafted glass, ceramic, and concrete tiles with an emphasis on simplicity, texture, and color. Inspired by the lifestyle and light of the Southern California coast, Lunada Bay Tile pursues a distinct approach toward experimentation, and a design philosophy that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern influences. “Glass tile turns pools into iridescent works of art,”…

Safety always outplays beauty in outdoor home features. But with today’s new technology, expanding knowledge base, and professional expertise, homeowners don’t have to sacrifice beauty for the security of safety features in luxury pools and outdoor living spaces. Pool builders and product innovators reveal some of the industry’s most compelling designs, products, and technologies to keep your pool, spa, or other water feature safe and mesmerizingly beautiful. To capitalize on a home’s landscape and views—and often the natural beauty that lies in the distance—professionals are developing innovative products that practically disappear to the eye. Jordan Goodman, president of Aquaview Fencing in Los Angeles, has created fencing, gates, and railings for pools, decks, patios, and, balconies that present almost transparent views. “Our glass pool fences and railing systems don’t compromise your…

With a thoughtful blend of innovative style and the latest technology, Blue Haven offices around the country create state-of-the-art backyard resorts that are distinct in appearance, water- and energy-efficient, and easy and enjoyable to own. “Our designs achieve the form and function that satisfy today’s busy, tech-savvy, environmentally conscious clients,” says president Stephen Treese. Doing so, he says, means integrating cutting-edge systems that automate care, enhance a pool’s beauty and longevity, and increase swimmer safety and comfort. Blue Haven’s complete line of high-tech SmartFeatures® includes stain- and slip-resistant color quartz and pebble interior finishes, dazzling, color-changing LED lighting with dancing light shows, and exclusive Microban® filters that resist mold, bacteria, and viruses. Advanced purification is also popular. Its powerful OxiPro device delivers the strongest, most reliable water sanitizer available—safely destroying…

Named by Robb Report as the most influential pool designer in the world, Skip Phillips, owner of Pool Spa Technologies, lead designer and former owner of Questar Pools and Spas, and consultant for Pure Stainless Steel Pools in Canada and for Latham, the world’s largest pool manufacturer, is said to deliver “a palpable elegance and a sleek aesthetic.” The waterscape artist and industry expert, who is based in San Diego, California and Tyler, Texas, places as much emphasis on structure and hydraulics as he does aesthetics—the latter of which have been attributed to his ability to make water “dance.” Designs by Phillips are marked by a seamless fluidity between the natural environs and the constructed landscape. In fact, he views the pool as an architectural extension of the home. “If…

GSM Builders is in the business of building dreams. A complete design build firm for all your outdoor and building needs. As the apex of luxury design, Fort Lauderdale, Floridabased GSM Builders has been providing luxury home and pool construction services throughout southern Florida for over a decade. Their team of trained, licensed, and insured contractors and designers are held to the highest standards, giving customers access to the top professionals in the industry. From swimming pool design and construction to custom home construction, GSM Builders’ team of architects, designers, engineers, and experienced contractors can transform both indoor and outdoor living spaces into a personal oasis. GSM Builders is SWD Registered, certified through the Society of Watershape Designers®, a GENESIS® program, delivering some 40-50 of the most beautiful new and…

Steele’s Signature Pools is a clientfocused team of experts that specializes in residential custom pool design. This boutique firm is making a big impression when it comes to luxuriating swim and spa experiences across New Jersey, crafting their work approach from ambition, innovation, and moxie. “We pour ourselves into every pool we design,” quips Adam Steele, CBP, Steele’s Signature Pools. “Our design process begins in the mind and is finished by hand, but it’s our heart that drives everything we do, 110%” It’s this ambition that’s highly evident in the firm’s design principles. They don’t rely on a catalog of previous patterns when mapping out a client’s project. Instead, each build caters to the client’s preferences and incorporates the homes’ landscapes and the ways the client likes to entertain. “A…

Hobert Pools & Spas has been turning backyard dreams into reality since 1975. Ethics, customer service, and a solid construction foundation are the cornerstones of the Hobert philosophy. In 1953, the founder of Hobert Pools, Hobert Murphree, launched his career in the pool building industry by tying steel for a small swimming pool company in California. After two decades in the industry working for other builders and designers, Hobert Pools was established in Richardson, Texas. The company started its rise to building hundreds of pools each year and has built over 15,000 pools in 45 years. This did not happen by chance or luck, but through perseverance, hard work, and always doing the right thing for the customer, even if it meant it would cost more than planned. Today, the…

Like custom outdoor pieces of art, SplinterWorks’ waterslides are captivating. Not only do they add hours of endless poolside fun, for kids and adults alike, but they also serve as a sculptural highlight for year-round outdoor living enjoyment. SplinterWorks’ Trist design (pictured) plays with a tripod base, keeping you guessing how it works until you find hidden integrated steps up the back. The mirror-polished stainless steel reflects an intriguing and contorted echo of the environments, making a subtle but poignant impact. Their alluringly simple shapes look like child’s play, but under the surface they are intelligently engineered to be free of visible structural armature, fixtures, and fittings—and that’s what makes these a product Luxury Pools + Outdoor Living loves! splinterworks.co.uk For more custom products and designs, visit luxurypools.com.…

There’s no party quite like a poolhouse party. Icy cocktails and chips served on the bar, steaks searing on the grill, a tossed salad in the fridge, and corn steaming away on the kitchenette stove. Kids circle in and out of the pool endlessly with big, purposeful splashes before unwinding in front of the TV. The adults sit back and connect around a dancing fire until the alfresco feast begins. Spending time outdoors is deeply restorative—the evidence is clear—and a poolhouse is key to luring everyone outside and keeping them there. It’s an indoor-outdoor oasis designed to ramp up a home’s pool-centered entertaining. But its contribution is more than just party hosting: It alleviates wet traffic in the main house; provides extra storage; and, built to a certain size, can…

Homeowners see their landscapes as an extension of the house itself. Conjuring that magic requires a master plan and a team of professionals to collaborate with the homeowner toward one ultimate goal: a backyard that looks natural in its setting and fulfills its owner’s functional expectations and overall vision. In other words, the goal is a purposeful, artistic whole. The best outdoor living spaces deliver an experience, a feel, which, says designer and builder Ali Felschow of Ali Enterprises, Inc., is different for every homeowner. Having designed outdoor living spaces for 20 years, Ali Enterprises has a reputation for creating timeless showcases that integrate seamlessly with their natural surroundings and feel comfortable and inviting. “I create designs that allow homeowners to experience their spaces in a variety of ways and…

Water is the essential element of a great backyard. Whether a homeowner chooses a swimming pool for family fun and fitness, a spa for relaxation, or simply wants to bring unparalleled beauty to their outdoor space, water is a medium of endless potential. Homeowners seeking the benefits and beauty of water features need true professionals to create environments that will provide years of carefree recreation and pleasure. The Society of Watershape Designers® certification (SWD®) is the only source in North America for certified professionals specializing in pools, spas, fountains, and water features—“watershapes”—of all types as well as the surrounding outdoor living environments. Society of Watershape Designer certified members, an SWD Master, or an SWD Registered, have completed a required 150 or more hours of educational study within GENESIS,® a company…

Serving the entire state of Arizona, Unique Landscapes & Custom Pools builds 80 to 100 distinct pools and spas each year. But they go far beyond, creating entire backyard environments that meet detail-oriented client expectations and high professional standards. In addition to being highly versed in all facets of Arizona landscaping, their areas of expertise include new pool construction, custom spas, outdoor kitchens, ramadas, pergolas, fireplaces, and stone travertine patios. Today, it is not uncommon to find backyards that include custom pools, outdoor kitchens, luxury outdoor furniture, putting greens, tennis courts, and even water parks, complete with kid-approved waterslides and lazy rivers. One family, in particular, worked with SWD Registered with Society of Watershape DesignersCM Chris Griffin in realizing their long-held dream. They wanted an elaborate, resort style backyard and…

Offering a fresh new perspective on outdoor living and the spaces that accommodate it, Ryan Hughes Design/Build is a second-generation company reborn for the 21st century. Ryan Hughes and his team’s work can be found in intimate to over-the-top outdoor living spaces and award-winning swimming pools across the United States and Canada. Among the firm’s specialties is the ability to capture a client’s unique vision. By creating intimate settings that fit beautifully with the surrounding environs, Ryan Hughes has become known for what he terms “artistry of space.” Signature design elements include state-of-theart water and fire features, custom stonework, and sophisticated landscape plantings—all of which blend together to brilliant effect. With a recent multi-million-dollar outdoor living complex, the term unique is an understatement. Within the 10,000 square feet of outdoor…

B&B Pool and Spa Center has won more than 50 national and international awards for design excellence, customer satisfaction, service, and professionalism. A familyowned business serving residential and commercial clients, longevity and beauty are two hallmarks of a B&B. The Bagin family—Craig; Drew, Sr.; Derek; and Drew, Jr.—personally oversee each project from concept through completion, ensuring creativity, quality construction, and value. President Craig Bagin has successfully built Award of Excellence pools and spas, including some with daunting engineering requirements. Whether he’s building on a difficult terrain or facing hydraulic challenges, Craig prides himself on delivering quality workmanship, professionalism, and service for every project. His construction team has trained under his direction for years—some for decades. Two of B&B’s projects were featured on the television show, “Cool Pools.” Viewers were thrilled…

AquaTerra Outdoors is an international award-winning design and build firm passionate about outdoor living. Since 2007, AquaTerra has been building and designing luxury outdoor environments filled with pools, landscaping, outdoor structures, outdoor kitchens, and more. A singular focus on offering uncompromising outdoor environments to discerning clients sets AquaTerra apart. Every environment and project is the result of collaboration with passionate clients. This process allows AquaTerra to craft environments for clients whose desire for excellence extends from their homes into their outdoor play and living spaces. With clients that set a high bar for originality, style, and quality, AquaTerra is constantly challenged and strives to surpass these expectations. AquaTerra’s design solutions emphasize a seamless relationship between indoor and outdoor living. Everyone on the design and construction teams share a passion for…

What began as a dream in 1985, today, Keith Zars Pools is recognized as the premier luxury pool builder in San Antonio, Texas. Having designed and constructed over 9,500 pools, the company has an unparalleled reputation for creating timeless outdoor spaces that integrate seamlessly with their natural surroundings. Their breathtaking pool designs and extraordinary craftmanship vanish the lines between indoor and outdoor living to create an oasis of tranquility. Keith Zars Pools brings passion and an acute eye for detail to every phase of the building process, creating not just a pool, but a functional piece of art. The experience begins when their customer’s vision for their design is partnered with award winning in-house licensed landscape architects. Each pool design is as unique as the owners and reflects a wide…

With gorgeous views across Banderas Bay and the lovely Punta Mita Pier, the Sufi Ocean Club in Punta Mita, the ultra-luxurious 1,500-acre resort and residential community situated in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, elevates the beach club concept while maintaining a breezy, casual vibe. A large, sparkling saltwater pool is the centerpiece, with wooden cabanas and daybeds, outdoor showers, Isla Mita Boutique, and Sufito Ceviche Bar & Grill. One of four beach clubs in Punta Mita, Sufi is available for use only by residents and their guests. In addition to the exclusive, on point Sufi, the resort community offers a variety of residential offerings, estate lots, as well as Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, The St. Regis Resort Punta Mita, and two Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses. Punta Mita is ringing in…

As the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces are sublimely blurring, poolside furniture has taken on a new importance and a much more elegant look. Celebrity designer Barclay Butera, one of those leading the casual-luxury charge, has imbued his Savannah Collection for Castelle with the same glamour and fresh traditional style that have defined his award-winning interior designs for the last quarter century. “Savannah was designed with a nod to the beauty and gentility of the South,” says Butera, whose eponymous firm has offices in Park City, Utah, and Newport Beach and Corona del Mar, California. “I like to describe the collection as southern living perfect for any porch, patio, or deck across the country because it can be used in traditional, transitional, and contemporary homes alike.” “I like to…

There’s nothing quite like plunging into a secluded tropical grotto hidden in the jungle or sinking into a luxurious lounger by the pool at a posh resort. But for those who strive to live an environmentally conscientious life, travel isn’t exactly the eco-friendliest way to spend your time: The carbon impact of air travel is mind-bogglingly high. That’s why people who want to balance their desire for a beautiful summer escape with their love for the planet can opt for earthfriendly designs, materials, and outdoor environments when planning their athome poolscapes. “Savvy pool buyers can ask their builder for equipment that’s kind to Mother Nature,” says R’nelle Lazlo, national vice president of Blue Haven Pools & Spas. “Today’s eco-friendly options include solar systems, energy-efficient LED lighting, low-emission gas heaters, water-sparing…

When it comes to your pool, you deserve a place that lets you escape — and lets you express who you are. A place that refreshes and relaxes you, helps you stay healthy and, most importantly, allows you to spend time and create memories with the ones you love most. Anthony & Sylvan Pools understands. It’s why they have become America’s largest builder of inground swimming pools and an industry leader in quality, customer satisfaction, and service. How did they get there? By putting customers first from start to finish. With Anthony & Sylvan, customers enjoy craftsmanship and expertise honed over more than 70 years in business. They’re served by one dedicated team throughout the process. Best of all, the company’s lifetime structural warranty and unbeatable service ensure customers will…

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…

The swimming pool industry has changed significantly over the years. Twenty to 30 years ago pools tended to be very simple and may have lacked design or style. Customers did not have very many options when it came to plaster finishes, the colors of tiles, or the shape of the pool. And, let’s face it, some pool contractors lacked imagination or didn’t have an eye for design and style when they were building pools. Newer swimming pools have become much more of showpiece for backyards. You may be wondering, what the solution is when you have an older pool that is lacking the design elements and style of the newer pools. As the oldest swimming pool builder in Northern New Jersey, Lehmann Pools & Spas often sees pools that were…

With cutting-edge designs backed by a wealth of knowledge and experience, Aquatic Artists, Inc. creates breathtaking concrete pools with numerous water features and effects. The result is an outdoor sanctuary that doubles as a work of art. Why choose Aquatic Artists? They have assembled a team of some of the best craftsmen in their respected trades. They use talent and creativity to meet every challenge with customer satisfaction in mind. Their clients can be confident that their project will be truly custom-built. “Our company provides its clients with unsurpassed quality, innovative designs, unique features, and distinguished craftsmanship. From concept to construction, each project is carefully monitored by our team of experts. It’s our passion for detail that sets us apart,” comments Trey Marshall, principal, Aquatic Artists. The firm has an…

This team of talented professionals is excited to take on even the most demanding of pool projects. Its energetic studio in Austin, Texas, is home to a creative professional group with a passion for design. Specializing in estate master planning, custom swimming pools, and unique watershapes, Design Ecology / Design Aquatics offers a full range of residential and commercial landscape architectural services. They tailor each project to exceed client goals with a unique, environmentally responsible design solution. Theit creative process begins with design. As partner and principal landscape architect for Design Ecology / Design Aquatics, Scott Cummings takes responsibility for every design produced. He works closely with associate designers and clients to ensure that all plans fully address the unique challenges of each individual project. Scott takes the time to…

Built on a steep mountainside in the Virgin Islands, this pool, designed by Aquatic Consultants, Inc., is a Lautner knife-edge deck-level slot perimeter overflow with a two-sided vanishing edge. The spa is an integrated and elevated 360-degree perimeter overflow with one side disappearing into the knife edge. A dark all-tile interior finish by Mosaicist, Inc. creates bold reflections and reverberates the vibrant colors of the Caribbean. Light-colored porcelain decking by Country Floors provides contrast and is cool on the feet. A shallow pool shelf with Signature Chaises from Ledge Lounger encourages pure relaxation and is the perfect spot for soaking in the incredible Caribbean views. aquaticconsultantsinc.com, basecreteusa.com, countryfloors.com, ledgeloungers.com, mosaicist.com…