Fun and functional
To accommodate the other requests the client had, Norman installed a swim-jet system inside the sitting area of the grotto. When activated, it creates the appearance of water flowing across a stream, giving the pool the ‘look and feel’ of a natural swimming hole. Not only does the swim jet provide the current necessary for swim resistance, but also imitates the moving water that divers experience when scuba diving in the ocean.
The client’s previous pool had a beach entry; however, although it was fun and interesting, it was not practical for the family. Therefore, on this project, Norman designed a large, two-stage shelf pool entrance. The first shelf slopes slightly forward to the start of the second shelf, which is roughly 0.9 m (3 ft) deep. This design works particularly well for the scuba-diving courses held in the pool, as those in scuba gear can stand on the second shelf and lean onto the first shelf or put their tanks and other equipment on the second shelf, which is still in the water and within arms-reach.
The first shelf also provides a large area for sitting within the pool, similar to a sun shelf. To promote in-pool lounging, a rock platform was added along the edge of the sun shelf, which included a rock feature with an umbrella anchor as way to create shade in the pool.
Integrating a spa
Once the main water feature and slide were positioned on the pool, determining how to integrate a spa into the backyard was the next step. Adding a spillover spa can give a pool greater utility; however, when doing so, it is important to employ interesting contrasts, as well as balance. To accomplish this, each feature was installed on opposite ends of the pool. Further, by placing the spa closer to the home, and the grotto and slide furthest away, it added depth to the backyard.
By locating the spillover spa closer to client’s house, it allows adults to enjoy warm-water hydrotherapy, while children and teenagers play at the opposite end of the pool in the grotto and slide ‘zone.’ To create contrast, Norman suggested a raised spa with a stacked stone spillway. This material was selected as a continuation of the ‘natural’ look of the pool and its other features.
Creating social areas
To increase the functionality of the pool, a swim-up bar was also added which faces the yard where a ‘Palapa’ was installed. The water depth in the swim-up bar area is approximately 0.9 m (3 ft) deep and features custom, built-in stools.
Norman installed four concrete stools, each made using a Sonotube (roughly 203 mm [8 in.] in diameter), with a 305-mm (12-in.) concrete cap. The stools were finished with tile and positioned 0.6 m (2 ft) apart. The water is shallow enough so that, while sitting, it reaches just below the bather’s chest. The depth of the pool immediately adjacent to this area is approximately 1.8 m (6 ft) deep, allowing bathers to swim away after socializing at the bar. The bar was also located near the spa to create multiple social areas within the pool.
Look to the house for cues
To complement the natural characteristics of the pool, Norman installed travertine stone decking, finished with a classic walnut tile colour and texture. The stone decking contrasts with the pool’s deep blue interior, which was created using tile around the vertical walls of the pool perimeter, in addition to the spa.
To create one cohesive space, the ‘U’ shape of the home was also taken into consideration. As this area leads to the pool and, rather than leaving a large concrete void, Norman designed an additional feature as a way to link the outdoor living space to the pool.
Here, a small ‘water hole’ was installed that includes a water fountain, which is positioned close to the fireplace and dining area nearby the home. Water is pumped from the pool into the bubbling water feature to create soothing sounds for those sitting on the patio. It also features integrated light-emitting diode (LED) lights to offer a variety of effects. The water feature can be controlled separately from the pool’s features, allowing the homeowner to turn it on/off depending on their mood.
Do not overlook anything
Even if the client does not specifically ask for a cave, grotto, waterfall or slide, these features should be discussed as they can make a pool more esthetically pleasing, not to mention more fun. For builders, these features can also make a new pool installation or renovation much more profitable.
Many builders are leaving money on the table when they neglect to offer a suite of options that can be incorporated on a pool. This project is a prime example of how multiple features can be included on a single pool.
Bruce Riley is the managing director of RicoRock Inc., makers of cast-concrete rock, including component systems for building caves/grottos, waterfalls, and waterslide products for use in pool applications. Riley focuses on developing new products and managing commercial installations. He built rock-type pools in southern California for 25 years and now uses this experience to design standard waterfall kits for the company. He can be reached via e-mail at bruce@ricorock.com.
