A long hot summer
Another challenge during the construction of this project was the weather. For pool builders, this typically means rain, but this was not the case. In fact, it was the opposite, as the weather was extremely hot. Owen admits tempers were short and the timeline became a real crunch for the pool installation team and the landscaping crew. Despite this, the two contractors met their deadlines, which Owen attributes to each of the companies focus on service to the clients.
“We have a wonderful relationship with our landscaping partners and construction suppliers,” says Owen. “We are constantly in communication and help one another with whatever is needed (e.g. lending an excavator) to keep the project on schedule as contracted with the client. Our choice to source all of our materials locally is also a big advantage during a short building season.”
Stonework around pool
The design specifically had a planting area around the pool on the same side as the waterfall feature. The elevated wall around the pool allowed for a seating area to be created on the inside edge of the lagoon-shaped pool, while the area behind it incorporates plantings and foliage to heighten the visual appeal. Due to all of the stone and rock work being used around the pool perimeter, additional sonotube concrete forms where required to support the weight of these features.
The steel pool walls can carry the extra weight of the deck, but the additional load from the stone and rock was such that extra concrete support was added around the backside of the pool.
Deck and firepit
The deck was built using quarry stone from a local provider, allowing it to blend naturally into the environment, as well as making it easy and fast to obtain. In constructing the deck, a cozy sitting area adjacent to the pool was also created to provide the homeowner with a poolside lounge area. This space was further enhanced with the addition of a firepit to allow the homeowner to enjoy a quite night—or entertain guests—by the pool long after the sun has set and the temperature gets cooler. It also created a space where the homeowner could bond with their grandchildren, sitting by the fire and roasting marshmallows.
In essence, the new backyard retreat was not designed and built just for the homeowners to enjoy, but also their extended family, as it would provide an outdoor destination for their grandchildren. Finally, the pool, waterfall, and firepit were all strategically designed to not only make the backyard fun, but also visually attractive.
Hot tub
Initially, the homeowners were considering two installation options for the hot tub—as an integral component of the pool, or alongside the pool. However, because of the narrow property and the fact the pool was located a fair distance from the house, it was advised that it be installed closer to the home.
“It was easy to explain that once their pool was closed for the winter, the hot tub would become an important part of their backyard oasis, not to mention with the cold temperatures, they would want to get into the warm water quickly after exiting the house,” says Owen.
With the homeowner onboard, the hot tub was installed closer to the home by sinking it into the deck, making it look ‘built-in’ and natural.
The big winner
The homeowner was delighted when they saw the finished project. Not only did their backyard oasis become a reality, but the design and landscaping also made the yard appear larger than it really was. Removing and pruning certain trees, while planting select evergreens, all contributed to the project’s visual appeal.
Thanks to the success of this pool installation, Thornbury Clear Choice Pool & Spa has used different modifications of this design in other projects, as many clients—not to mention others in the industry—often ask what type of liner was installed, as they cannot believe it is a vinyl-lined pool. In fact, on first glance, many think this project looks like a gunite pool.
Eric Gohn is vice-president of sales for Fox Pool Group, including Fox Pool Corp., Pen Fabricators, and Fabcote. He has worked in all aspects of the company over his 22-year career. Gohn is currently responsible for sales of all brands worldwide as well as for marketing and customer service. He can be reached via e-mail at egohn@foxpool.com.
