To say I am pleased with this year’s Masters of Design issue would be a massive understatement.
I am incredibly proud of this issue. The projects featured here represent the very best in pool and backyard design, whether they were made of concrete, vinyl liners or fiberglass.
This year, we received a record number of entries, making the competition especially fierce. Not only did we need to find a way to manage the volume of submissions, but the quality of these entries were, simply put, outstanding. It was a wonderful problem to have.
Our three guest judges of the concrete category, Paolo Benedetti, Kate Wiseman and Jamie Scott, agreed. In fact, Wiseman commented that there were at least 20 projects she wished she could designate as winners.
But in the end, it came down to the 11 remarkable projects you’ll find beginning on page 23. I invite you to take your time in perusing these marvelous masterpieces.
Putting together an issue like this is a massive group effort and I’d like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the hard work of everyone involved.
First of all, I’d like to express my appreciation to the hundreds of builders who entered this year. It was truly an honor to see the remarkable and innovative work being performed in our industry today. I wish we had the space to showcase each and every one.
Next, I’d like to thank our Genesis judges, Paolo Benedetti of Aquatic Technology Pool & Spa, Kate Wiseman of Sage Outdoor Designs, and Jamie Scott of Group Works, who graciously donated hours of their busy lives to judge the concrete category. The blind judging system can sometimes be a challenge to navigate, and for their patience, I am grateful. But most importantly, I am thankful for their expertise, which is invaluable to the program.
And finally, a resounding thank you to the hardworking and devoted PSN staff, especially Deputy Editor Rebecca Robledo and Senior Editor Nate Traylor. Without their dedication, creativity and support, you would not be holding this special issue in your hands.
