Top Pool Trends For 2016

Categories: Hardscape, Landscape Design, Patios, Pools/Spas

As Atlanta residents look forward to the warmer months, planning the perfect residential pool area moves to the landscaping forefront. More than just places to swim, pools have now become part of extended backyard living spaces designed to match the needs of the homeowner.

OUT: Disconnected outdoor “rooms” with pool separate from other landscape elements

IN: Pool as an integral part of outdoor living space—perhaps with a dining area, bar, fireplace and media center

OUT: Cookie-cutter, pre-designed pools

IN: Custom creations using computer-assisted design and 3D modeling programs

Pool and landscape designed together to best reflect architecture of home and personal aesthetic of homeowner, includes freeform pools as well as contemporary and formal designs

OUT: Simple infinity pool with a single disappearing edge

IN: Vanishing, negative edge or knife-edge pool with full-perimeter overflow

Precise geometry and contemporary lines

OUT: Basic kidney-bean shaped pool

IN: Natural pool systems mimicking ponds and lagoons, complete with environmentally-friendly filtration systems, companion greenery and rock formations

OUT: Entry steps or ladders

IN: Beach-style sloped entry with lounging ledge

OUT: Complex maintenance systems

IN: High-tech pool features controlled from smartphones and tablets adjust timers, features, temperature of water, lighting for pool and surrounding landscape

OUT: Single-speed pumps

IN: Energy-efficient, variable-speed pumps

The Real Elements of Design

FIRE

• Fire bowls and pits around the pool

• Specialized fabrications of combination water/fire features

• Continued trend of outdoor fireplaces and kitchens

around pool

STONE

• Glass tile

• Pebble surfaces

• Underwater glass-viewing windows