Once again, we’re thrilled to introduce our annual Masters of Design issue.
With each group of honorees, it becomes clear that the design of residential pools, spas and waterfeatures continues to evolve. This year’s slate also exemplify some fine lessons:
• Intention is everything — and the more specific the better.
I consider this the most important. Great designs start with a specific intention. Every customer wants something that is beautiful, unique and, in most cases, looks like it was built with the home. But, specifically, what does that comprise? Can you sum it up in a sentence? How can every element of the design work in service of that intention?
In “See the Clever Way this Masters of Design Pool Engages the Ocean Beyond," the goal was very clear— form a strong connection with the ocean beyond, especially to a particular room. The use of line and angle on the home architecture and pool illustrate how a specific intention can result in an innovative approach.
• Neutral tones can play an important role in creating drama.
In “Enjoy This Fiery Dallas-Area Masters of Design Pool," the designer wanted to showcase the dramatic sunsets and the raised spa. A key strategy? Using mostly neutral materials throughout the yard, reserving more vibrant tones for features meant to pack a punch. So the raised spa is finished in iridescent, jewel-toned glass mosaic tile, while the nearby raised wall with waterfall remains more muted.
• The home can offer inspiration in unexpected ways.
The whole pool and backyard featured in “How This Masters of Design Pool Disrupts the Neighborhood Vibe” is distinctly gorgeous. But one tiny detail has stuck with me: Behind the spa sits a small plot of artificial turf whose outlines form a stepped pyramid. The marble stairs directly adjacent follow the same lines. The designer got the idea from the home, whose front facade angles in and out.
• A tree can work just about anywhere if chosen carefully.
In “This Masters of Design Pool Expertly Integrates Interior with Outdoors," the pool and glass-encased home fit together like a puzzle, forming an integral connection. The designer decided to place trees between them. Seems counterintuitive: Why block that connection with trees? As it turns out, the trees enhanced the connection by framing the view from the home. And the design team chose carefully, landing on a variety that mostly grows vertically and features a lighter canopy so you could see through it. Of course, be mindful of the root system’s impact, and consult a qualified landscape or nursery professional for more sensitive placement.
• Material changes quickly distinguish areas in an open floor plan.
In “This Fiberglass Masters of Design Honoree Makes Most of Topography," the team chose one deck material for the foot traffic area around the pool, then another in the lounging spots. Dark, narrow pavers line up to create borders separating the individual “rooms.”
• You can turn your own hobbies into design strategies.
Turn to “Check Out This Masters of Design-Winning Vinyl-Liner Pool with Lazy River” to see how one builder used his love of collecting to help manifest the whimsical little town surrounding the vinyl-liner pool and concrete lazy river.
