Designing for functionality
The slats on the pool and whirlpool automatic covers are 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) thick, requiring the cover recess on the pool to be 762 mm (30 in.) wide. This is well-hidden and the cover mechanism is contained under the Ipe wood decking, which is designed with removable sections for access.
Similarly, the recess for the whirlpool cover is 406.4 mm (16 in.) wide and hidden in the same manner. This installation technique allows the beauty of the cover to remain visible, while disguising the cover motor and mechanical areas. To blend the cover with the colour palette of the architecture and natural environment of the surrounding rocks, the client selected grey slats.
Another benefit the slatted pool covers offer the client is they are self-draining. As water is allowed to disperse entirely on its own, the cover is functional at any time. This is also ideal on pools equipped with water features such as sheer descents, in-deck laminar jets, etc. Traditional vinyl covers allow rainwater to accumulate on the surface, which must be removed prior to operation.
Designing for continuity
All too often, pools are built without consideration for other surrounding structures, architecture, or surrounding environment in mind. When this happens, the pool looks out of place and/or disjointed from the rest of the property. Therefore, it is critical to consider a home’s architectural design not only when building a pool, but also when selecting the finishing materials and products—regardless of the scale of the home or project. This helps to ensure continuity of movement through the space and co-ordination of the overall design.
The materials used on the pool and whirlpool on this project were selected carefully to match those of the house and, as the images show, the harmony of the entire property is maintained.
It takes a client with vision and desire to build a home such as this and it takes a team working towards one common goal to successfully complete a demanding project.
The industry also recognized the design, engineering, and beautiful esthetics that went into this project as it won a number of awards in 2014, including gold in the Pool & Hot Tub Council of Canada’s (PHTCC’s) Design & Construction Awards (Technical Achievement), gold in the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals’ (APSP’s) International Awards of Excellence (pools with vanishing edge more than 55.8 m2 [601 sf] of more), a silver for residential spa, in addition to the prestigious gold ‘Grand International’ (best overall) project in the Master Pools Guild’s Awards of Excellence.
Tom Dankel has been with Aquamatic Covers Systems, a manufacturer of automatic pool covers and safety covers in Gilroy, Calif., for 31 years. He has grown with Aquamatic—from a three-person company to a firm of 50 employees, serving more than 60 countries worldwide. He can be reached via e-mail at tom@aquamatic.com.
