Landform Design Group’s Jayson King explores some of today’s most sought-after features for your backyard oasis.
Infinity Edges
Best suited to sites where the landscape can be emphasized, infinity edges create a dramatic visual effect but add cost and introduce complexity for automatic covers and access, as they eliminate one full side of the pool. They’re best used intentionally and not forced upon the site.
Baja Shelves
These shallow, multifunctional ledges for lounging and family use can accommodate loungers, bubblers, and umbrellas, but they reduce overall swim space — expanding the pool’s footprint is often preferable to sacrificing length or depth.
Water Features
Water features are a cost-efficient way to add ambiance to existing pool systems. From modern spillways to natural-style falls, they enhance the atmosphere without fundamentally altering the pool’s structure.
Water Color
Determine your desired water tone — light blue, deep lake, or near-black reflection — and then choose the plaster finish that delivers the final visual effect.
Covers
A primary driver of design decisions, safety covers influence shape and layout. Advanced systems like submerged or floating covers allow for greater design freedom — but at a higher cost.
Perimeter Overflow
With this high-end, knife-edge approach, water meets the deck level and gently spills over all sides, creating a reflective, glass-like surface. It’s elegant but technically complex, especially when paired with automatic covers.
Slides
Gone are the days of bulky plastic forms. Today’s slides range from streamlined, budget-conscious options to custom stainless steel or copper designs that function as sculptural elements, integrating seamlessly into the overall pool design.
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