Connect with us

Pool Builder

Pool Designs – 50 Luxury Pools That Will Inspire You

Published

on

Pool Designs - 50 Luxury Pools That Will Inspire You

When discussing the world of luxury pools and pool designs, one can’t go very far in the conversation without bringing up gunite pools. Unquestionably, concrete inground pools offer the most versatility in terms of customization. Homeowners go all out tricking out their backyards with the latest outdoor living amenities to take their backyards to the next level. Consequently, they want their pool designs to have the latest state-of-the-art technology. Builders are constantly being asked to push the envelope and incorporate pool features that complement the aesthetics of the home.

Tranqulity of Moving Water

Luxury inground pool with sheer descents - retaining wall
1 of 50

This luxury inground pool with multiple sheer descents coming from a raised retaining wall offers the tranquility of moving water and provides a tasteful and elegant focal feature in the pool area.


Outdoor Pool & Patio Design

Simple and elegant outdoor pool patio design
2 of 50

A simple and elegant backyard that makes excellent use of the space provided to offer a classic-looking outdoor pool and patio. Cohesive and tasteful throughout the entire space.


Personal Backyard Oasis

Backyard resort. Pool design with tanning ledge, bubblers, sheer descents.
3 of 50

This space backyard resort had room for a huge pool design with a large tanning ledge. Bubblers and sheer descents add to the atmosphere of complete relaxation.


Covered Patio & Pool Vibe

4 of 50

When the summer is hot, you’ll want a covered patio area to relax and beat the harmful rays of the sun. This hangout has an outdoor wet-rated ceiling fan to help circulate the air while lounging poolside on hot days.


Beach Resort Pool

Beach resort pool design with raised spa
5 of 50

This quaint backyard beach resort comes complete with a raised spa. Guests lounging poolside will want to dive right in. Nothing screams beach vibe like a giant crab on the wall.


Perfect Pool Design For A Beach House

Beach house pool design with elegant pool and lounging area.
6 of 50

Everything about this beach house says pool party. The minute you pull up to the house, the side entrance leads right to an elegant pool with a neatly appointed lounging area.


Classic & Contemporary

7 of 50

The classic look of the home with its brick columns demands a simple and contemporary pool design. Large format pool tile at the waterline of the pool help gives it color and dimension.


Freeform Designer Pool

Designer pool - freeform pool design with travertine coping.
8 of 50

This designer pool features a huge freeform design with a raised spa and travertine coping all around the perimeter of the pool. Smartly appointed umbrellas offer multiple shaded areas.


Enclosed Inground Pool

Enclosed pool design with rain curtain and laminar jets - raised spa.
9 of 50

Enclosed pool designs are extremely popular in Florida. This homeowner opted to install a rain curtain feature in the center of the pool for a breathtaking centerpiece.


Fire & Water Features

Fire and water features in pool designs are popular. Sheer descents and laminar jets with spillover spa.
10 of 50

There is nothing quite so captivating as when fire and water come together. The firepots complementing the sheer descents and laminar jets work beautifully with a spillover spa.


Outdoor Living At It’s Finest

A firepit conversation area by the pool is a classic design.
11 of 50

This perfectly appointed outdoor living design features a firepit conversation area right next to the pool. One of the most popular outdoor living trends you’ll see this year.


Gunite Is The Way To Go

Gunite pools offer the most flexibility in terms of shapes and materials.
12 of 50

Homeowners that want a truly custom luxury pool design 9 times out of 10 will choose a gunite pool because of the flexibility it offers pool designers in terms of materials and shapes.


Raised Wall Sheer Descents

Pool elevations with retaining walls are a high end feature homeowners love.
13 of 50

Pool designers are opting to add elevations by building retaining walls that step down to the pool area. Adding a sheer descent that provides the sense of moving water throughout is a classic pool feature folks tend to ask for again and again.


Large Format Tiles Are Popular

Large format pool tile is enormously popular this year.
14 of 50

One popular trend that continues to dominate pool designs is large format tiles. Homeowners are opting for beautiful grout lines and textured interesting patterns that pop.


Modern Pool Design With Retaining Wall

Modern pool design featuring multiple sheer descents from a huge retaining wall.
15 of 50

This modern pool design features multiple sheer descents from a huge retaining privacy wall that keeps prying eyes and nosey neighbors from checking out the raging pool party going on.


Luxury Pool Design With Mosaic Tile

16 of 50

This beachside mansion features a luxury pool with a perimeter overflow to a smaller pool below. The entire wall of the pool is covered in gorgeous mosaic pool tile throughout the whole length of the pool.


Southern Mansion Pool

Mansion pool with covered seating areas on multiple levels.
17 of 50

This quaint southern mansion features a neatly appointed luxury pool area with paver tiles throughout the entire deck area. Seating is available under covered porches on multiple levels.


Garden Pool Design

Garden pool - outdoor pool design is perfect for small backyards.
18 of 50

Homeowners looking for the perfect garden pool design need to look no further. This exemplifies an ideal outdoor pool design down to the doll-sized change room in the garden.


Poolside Shade With Pergolas

Pergolas for pools are a popular outdoor living feature
19 of 50

One smart way to add a permanently shaded area is to build a pergola. This homeowner opted to build one running the length of the pool. A raised spillover spa provides the perfect accent.


Perfectly Simple Inground Pool

Simple inground pool that is perfect for most regular homes.
20 of 50

Not every pool design has to be overdesigned with a million dollars worth of water features in order to be the ideal perfect pool. Sometimes simple is better when it comes to designing a pool and patio. The paver decking throughout is a classic and sophisticated look.


Picture Perfect Backyard

Picture perfect backyard with swimming pool.
21 of 50

This picture-perfect backyard has all the outdoor living amenities one could want. An outdoor fireplace, pergola, and outdoor kitchen complement a freeform pool with raised spillover spa.


Elevations Are Popular

22 of 50

Homes with a sloped backyard are a prime candidate for creating tasteful pool designs that incorporate exciting elevation changes. This modern pool design does that handsomely.


Luxury Outdoor Living

23 of 50

When discussing outdoor luxury amenities that add value to the home, a beautiful beach entry pool is definitely one that is adding to the sale price of a home. Completed backyards with a swimming pool like this one are going for top dollar in today’s real estate market.


Private Waterfront Pool Area

Luxury pool on waterfront property with easy access to guests dropping in for a dip.
24 of 50

Luxury homeowners could want nothing more than a private waterfront pool area with easy dock access for any guests that may want to drop in for the occasional dip.


Vanishing Edge Pools

Vanishing edge pools are a luxury that homeowners investing in an inground pool seem to want.
25 of 50

Vanishing edge pools are a luxury that homeowners investing in an outdoor pool seem to want. They add a sophisticated modern design aesthetic to areas that open up to a view.


Spillover Spas a Popular Pool Feature

Popular Pool Features - Raised Spillover Spa offers a complete overview of the pool area.
26 of 50

Pool designers that opt to include a raised spillover spa to a complete view of the pool area will create a relaxing detached area away from children playing in the pool. This design is popular with homeowners that want an elegant pool design but still want to keep an eye on their kids.


Crafting Outdoor Living Environments

27 of 50

Crafting the ideal outdoor living environment that speaks to a homeowner’s lifestyle and design aesthetic can be a challenge for pool builders. The best pool designs think about the entire backyard as a whole. Considering the flow from the main home to the patio area, homeowners frequently opt to add an outdoor home theater system and seating area. This beautifully appointed outdoor fireplace is the perfect place to lounge poolside.


Pool & Firepit Area

Firepit by the pool filled with crushed blue glass is the same color as the pool interior.
28 of 50

One of the most popular backyard amenities homeowners are adding to their swimming pool is a separate fire pit area. This beautiful stacked stone fire pit with crushed blue glass perfectly accents the pool interior. Using color to combine design elements is a method outdoor living experts use to create a cohesive palette in the backyard.


Complement Your Natural Canvas

29 of 50

Homeowners that already have an impressive natural backdrop to build against are eager to add a pool. Adding a custom luxury pool completes the transition from the indoors to an impressive outdoor canvas. Adding small touches like moving water features creates the serenity that homeowners seek after a trying day at the office.


Add Natural Rock To Your Pool To Create An Outdoor Oasis

30 of 50

Natural rock immediately gives you the sense that you’re in an outdoor oasis. Pool designs that incorporate a chatter fall feature where moving water rushes down the rocks are very popular. Multiple entries are also a pool feature that creates a resort-style pool.


Rustic Southern Style

Contemporary meets rustic with this southern style backyard.
31 of 50

This beautiful freeform pool with a raised spa is the focal point of the backyard. A huge paver patio has an outdoor fireplace with Adirondack chairs. A covered pergola and barbecue setting area make it easy to serve food and drinks to guests poolside. Incorporate the right landscaping, trees, and plants pulls the whole pool design together in this beautiful rustic southern-style backyard.


Sheet of Glass

Perimeter overflow pool designs create the aesthetic where the pool becomes a sheet of glass.
32 of 50

This pool is literally a sheet of glass. A perimeter overflow pool design with a small gap around the entire pool area allow the water to continuously recycle back into the pool. If you look closely you’ll notice a spa area got the same treatment on the other end of the backyard. Truly a modern pool design aesthetic that homeowners are gravitating towards.


Designing Pools For Narrow Spaces

Narrow pool design for side of house.
33 of 50

This homeowner opted to build a beautiful and luxurious inground pool and spa on the side of their house instead of in their backyard where they had less square footage. It’s a unique pool design that makes the most out of the usable space.


Pool Entries Are Important

Stairs are an important design aspect in an inground pool.
34 of 50

When planning a pool design, builders will often recommend a pool entry that flows seamlessly into the rest of the backyard area. Making it easy for swimmers to enter and exit the pool is important. Backyards that are on a slope are best suited for stair entry pools.


Geometric Shaped Pools

Geometric shaped pool designs are becoming increasingly popular.
35 of 50

Modern pool designs tend to lean more towards geometric shapes. This simple L shaped pool design is perfectly suited with a retaining wall at the far end that creates a walkway with garden boxes on each side. The concrete decking here blends in seamlessly with the coping.


Adding a Ledge Lounger

Adding a ledge lounger to a pool is easy and a beautiful design aesthetic.
36 of 50

It’s amazing what adding a ledge lounger can do to really give the pool a backyard resort style look and feel. The fact that loungers now come in a wide variety of colors make it easy to add one on and coordinate it to the rest of your outdoor palette.


Creating Seating for Guests

Create seating for guests to lounge poolside and for swimmers to enjoy as well.
37 of 50

Creating seating for guests to be able to comfortably lounge poolside is one design element that shouldn’t be overlooked. If you do a lot of entertaining in your backyard, you’ll want to consider adding a few lounge chairs by the pool which will require a deck to place them on. Adding a tanning ledge to the pool allows swimmers to lounge in the water without actually getting in the water. Definitely a pool feature that homeowners want these days.


Poolside Pergola

It's amazing what a pergola can do to pull the entire pool design together and make the backyard feel complete.
38 of 50

Pergolas consistently remain one of the top outdoor amenities that homeowners add to their swimming pool area. This simple outdoor seating area has a beautiful pergola that perfectly accents the home. It’s incredible what adding a Pergola can do to help bring the entire backyard together. A massive tanning ledge in this pool can easily be equipped with a ledge lounger.


Raised Spa With Large Format Tile

Raised spa with large format tile has a seamless tile line above the waterline.
39 of 50

The pool designers paid attention to creating a continuous line above the waterline throughout the pool. Adding a raised spa with large format tile was a smart touch here. A huge spillover into the pool creates that waterfall sound that really makes this backyard resort feel like an oasis. A beautiful pergola and outdoor kitchen are the perfect addition to really complete this outdoor living environment.


Massive Tanning Ledge

Massive tanning ledges create an expanded shallow area for younger swimmers.
40 of 50

One of the most popular pool design features that homeowners are requesting these days is a massive tanning ledge. A tanning ledge is a particularly useful feature for homeowners that have small children. Parents want a larger than average shallow area for splashing around with infants and toddlers.


Retaining Wall Water Features

Smart use of retaining walls means incorporating water features.
41 of 50

The sound of moving water creates the sense of tranquility and an atmosphere of elegance. Homeowners opt to add retaining walls for a number of reasons. Whether it’s for holding the earth back from the pool area, or creating privacy, or forming elevations; builders that are able to incorporate water features into them are pushing the envelope on their pool designs.


Making The Most Of Travertine

Making the most out of travertine decking by incorporating it into a raised detched spa.
42 of 50

Travertine decking is one of the more high-end materials that homeowners are choosing for their patio. Using that material on the raised detached spa was smart. Creating a channel for the water to flow into the pool and create a moving water feature was even smarter.


Popular Water Feature to Add – Deck Jets

43 of 50

A popular pool feature that homeowners are adding to their pool design – deck jets. The jets can be aimed to shoot a stream of water a certain distance or height and can even incorporate LED lighting to create a colored stream of light into the pool at night.


Cascading Sheer Descents & High Retaining Walls

44 of 50

If privacy is an issue, a high retaining wall solves a lot of problems and a good design solution if you have a lot of earth to hold back in your yard. A popular water feature these days is adding a cascading sheer descent to your pool. Water appears to flow from the top of the wall into the pool below.


No Deck Needed

45 of 50

Not every pool needs to be surrounded by a slab of concrete or travertine decking. Some outdoor pool designs look just as beautiful without a deck. This homeowner opted not to build a deck and has their pool surrounded by a lush green lawn. The pool design itself is very simple but stylish with a sunken channeled spillover spa.


Cabo Ledges

46 of 50

Lounging poolside, swimmers may opt to need breaks in the pool. Builders will frequently opt to create shelves and ledges in these areas of an inground pool. This particular pool design does exactly that with a tanning ledge running along the entrance of the pool as well as along the perimeter.


Caddy Corner Spillover Spa

47 of 50

A popular design feature that looks spectacular on geometric-shaped pools is caddy cornered spillover spas. Positioning them smartly so that the water flow goes directly into the pool creates the sound of peacefully moving water. This is something you’ll appreciate the moment you enter the pool area.


Location, Location, Location

48 of 50

Having a beautiful backdrop to build a pool against creates the ultimate canvas for luxury outdoor living designs. The pool designers were inspired to create a backyard design that would handsomely complement the sprawling outdoor space and blend seamlessly with the exterior of the home.


Classic Outdoor Living

49 of 50

It isn’t very hard to see that this homeowner was going for a classic outdoor living environment with this pool design. This roman shaped pool design is popular with more traditional homes. The plants and landscaping the homeowner chose beautifully accent the perimeter of the pool area throughout. A pavilion towards the back of the property line provides a smartly appointed entertainment area.


Pool Design For Your Outdoor Living Environment

Pool Design For Your Outdoor Living Environment
50 of 50

Cameron Rhodes, the lead designer and co-owner of Southern Poolscapes has been designing high-end outdoor living environments for the better part of a decade. When it comes to selecting a pool design, Rhodes said “It’s important to meet with a pool builder that understands your vision for the space. Many times, it takes a while to help homeowners articulate that into a design plan that accurately represents what their dream is.”

As one of the leading luxury pool builders in the South, Rhodes has his fingers on the pulse of what pool design features homeowners want in their inground pool. “Moving water is extremely popular,” said Rhodes, “There is something truly serene about coming into the backyard and hearing the sound of a waterfall or sheer descent running. That ambient sound is very peaceful and adds to the overall atmosphere and ambiance in a high-end custom pool.”

In terms of what luxury homeowners are adding to their pools, Rhodes replied, “We’ve seen more and more homeowners requesting massive tanning ledges. Many of these folks have a family with small children and these ledges provide a larger shallow area to enjoy time in the pool with younger more inexperienced swimmers. Plus when coupled with a set of ledge loungers, the effect is pretty impressive,” said Rhodes. 

“We are also seeing more homeowners looking for a cleaner more refined look to their inground pool,” said Rhodes, “We’re doing a lot of perimeter overflow projects where you get that seamless sheet of glass look when the waterline is flush with the coping.” 

As far as outdoor living amenities go, Rhodes says that homeowners are going all out on high-end materials, despite the rising costs that we’ve seen across the board this season.

“By and large people want a beautiful outdoor living environment,” said Rhodes, “we’re seeing more customers add on Pavilions, outdoor kitchens, firepits, and go all out on their landscaping. It goes to show their mindset; that if they’re stuck at home, they are going to make sure that their home is definitely someplace that they want to be.”

Photo Credit: Southern Poolscapes

4.6/5 - (46 votes)

Pool News coverage brought to you by Pool Magazine's own Marcus Packer. Marcus Packer is a 20 year pool industry veteran pool builder and pool service technician. In addition to being a swimming pool professional, Marcus has been a writer and long time contributor for Newsweek Magazine's home improvement section and more recently for Florida Travel + Life. Have a story idea or tip you'd like to share with Pool Magazine? Email [email protected] your story idea.

2 Comments
Subscribe
Notify of
2 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Alica Maxwell
Alica Maxwell
2 years ago

These pool designs are absolutely gorgeous. Who are the designers of all these pools? We live in Tampa, FL and would love something like this in our backyard.

Joe Trusty
Admin
2 years ago
Reply to  Alica Maxwell

Southern Poolscapes are the builders of all 50 pools.

Pool Builder

Building Pools With Maintenance in Mind

Published

on

Building Pools With Service in Mind

Edwards Pool Construction, based in Wichita, Kansas, has steadily carved out a niche for itself as the premier pool builder in the area. Headed by the visionary Steve Edwards, a seasoned pool builder and hot rod aficionado, the firm has transformed from its roots in pool service to one of the most respected names in pool construction. This transformation reflects their commitment to not only creating stunning designs but also building pools with service in mind.

Approaching Pool Construction With Future Maintenance in Mind

Steve Edwards, the driving force behind Edwards Pool Construction, has a unique approach to his work. In an interview with Pool Magazine, he shared his journey, stating, “I never worked for anyone and just reverse-engineered everything, as I learned.”

Hot Rodding Pools For Performance

Edwards’ passion for hot rods coupled with his mechanical knowledge has significantly influenced his pool construction techniques. He revels in modifying pool equipment pads for higher performance, drawing parallels between his love for speed and his innovative pool designs.

Averi Edwards, Steve’s daughter, maintains pools for the company. She explained that the service aspect is always an important consideration in her father’s mind. “My dad started in the business servicing pools. He would hot rod equipment pads and make them easier to work on. That is what is always in the back of his mind when he’s building something.”

Hotrodding the pool equipment pad is the norm for Edwards.
Hotrodding the pool equipment pad is the norm for Edwards.

On Building Pools With Maintenance in Mind

Edwards says that her father’s doctrine of building around ease of access for maintenance remains a mission-critical aspect on every pool project.

“He’s always thinking, how is this going to be serviced? How are we going to clean this and get a vacuum hose down here? He’s making sure that we have adequate filtration. That the pipe sizes are big enough, that we’ve got enough pumps, enough chlorinators, enough sanitation. These things are always in the back of his mind. So really, by the time that our service guys come in, it makes it really easy on us to take over,” Averi explained.

Edwards's methodology is building pools with service in mind.
Edwards’s methodology is building pools with service in mind.

Seeing Things a Little Different

One of the most intriguing aspects of Edwards’ philosophy to building pools with service in mind is his ability to envision three-dimensional structures in his head, a skill that has helped him hone his craft as a builder. “I make my living doing things I’ve never done before and it’s been like that since day one,” explained Edwards. “The art of putting water over an edge or up in the air; that type of plumbing, it all comes back to hot rod knowledge, mechanical knowledge, and my ability to see hydraulics and structure in my head.”

Bringing The Wow Factor to Wichita

When it comes to designing and constructing pools, Edwards begins with the homeowner and the traditional expectations of Wichita’s conservative market. “Rectangular pools with auto covers are popular out here because we’ve got a lot of wind up here. So how do you dress that up? You curve it up on the inside, curve it up on the deck,” explained Edwards, “most of my design work is on the ground with a can of paint. Once people can see what I’m able to do there are x amount that will just let you go. Those are my favorite projects. I’ve had several clients just turn me loose. Not loose financially, but a little bit architecturally.”

Going outside the box seems to be working for Edwards. One of his most recent projects features killer geometry with an almost ampersand-shaped swimming pool and lazy river. The project presented numerous technical challenges and we were eager to learn more about what went into building the vessel.

Edwards pool construction is bringing something truly unique to the Wichita market.
Edwards Pool Construction is bringing something truly unique to the Wichita market.

“This project was brought to me by a builder I’d never heard of,” said Edwards, “he just walked into my shop and threw down a set of plans. That project ended up probably at 10 million, I would think. We shot that pool and it was challenging.”

When an opportunity to hot rod the lazy river aspect of the pool presented itself, Edwards jumped on it. “I made some changes to the lazy river and how it was designed. It’s got two Riverflow, 3000 gallon-a-minute pumps in it. I’ve used Riverflow twice before. Never in a lazy river, but it all works amazing,” said Edwards.

Edwards’s unique ability to find ways to improve the aesthetic of the overall project would foster a unique collaboration with one of the industry’s leading tile artisans.

“They wanted to do tile and we introduced the idea of glass. So we contacted Jimmy Reed. We ended up tenting the pool. It was nice and air-conditioned through the rain and heat and the guys were able to work continuously for six or seven weeks. Then we had to cover the tile up and set for another winter before we ever plastered that pool,” explained Edwards.

Building Pools With Service in Mind - Edwards Pool Construction

The end result of this sophisticated and avant-garde design represents a significant departure from the prototypical geometric-shaped swimming pools typically found throughout the Wichita market. In fact, the design is so unique that one might wonder if this pool in particular might usher a renaissance towards more unconventional designs.

“Batman Lives There”

“It’s an incredible pool,” Edwards remarked cheerfully, “you could plop that pool down in California just about anywhere but it’s really crazy for Wichita. I tell people Batman lives there because the Batmobile sitting in front of that house would look right at home.”

The success of this build has already led to more work of this nature for the Wichita pool builder. “I’m lucky to have been a part of this project I thought I’d never build anything like that. I just walked it the other day, and it’s just crazy when you realize you built something like that,” said Edwards. “Now we’ve got two other projects of that scale going at the same time in the same neighborhood. I never would have thought I could build two at the same time, but we’re doing it.”

Listen to our entire conversation with Steve & Averi Edwards on the Pool Magazine podcast.

4.9/5 - (12 votes)

Continue Reading

Pool Builder

Master Pools Guild – Supporting The Next Generation of Pool Builders

Published

on

For Over 60 Years Master Pools Guild Has Been Supporting Pool Guilders

For more than 62 years, Master Pools Guild (MPG) has been a beacon of excellence in the pool industry, providing a unique platform for collaboration, education, and support among its members. Founded in 1962 by a group of visionary pool builders in California, MPG has evolved into an exclusive international network of custom pool builders, with a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of construction and ethical practices.

At the helm of MPG stands its current Executive Director, Teri Wiltshire, who brings over 15 years of experience in the pool and spa industry to her role. In a recent interview, Wiltshire shed light on the organization’s history, mission, and the transition into her position as Executive Director.

Master Pools Guild Receives Special Recognition Award From PHTA

Wiltshire emphasized the familial nature of MPG, stating, “Our group is tight-knit, 100 members. They have always been incredibly supportive. We’re a tight-knit family.” This cohesion is crucial as it fosters a spirit of openness and communication, a unique characteristic in an industry where competitors often find themselves at odds.

Continuing a Proud Tradition of Excellence

Since its inception, MPG’s mission has remained focused on communication, networking, and continuing education. Wiltshire notes that one remarkable aspect of the organization is the emergence of third and fourth-generation members, who, having grown up within the organization, contribute to smooth transitions in ownership and management within their respective companies.

Contrary to misconception, MPG is not a buying group. While they do provide a small annual rebate to members based on their purchasing, the organization’s primary focus is on sharing knowledge and education. Wiltshire clarified, “Overwhelmingly our purpose is sharing and education. We provide our members with the continuing education they need to stay at the top of their game.”

Master Pools Guild Meeting

Becoming a Member of Master Pools Guild

Membership in MPG is by invitation only, and the organization maintains a rigorous vetting process to ensure the highest standards in construction and ethical practices. Wiltshire outlined the meticulous process, including reference checks, discussions with banks and vendors, and the use of digital platforms to assess a business’s online reputation.

Wiltshire emphasized, “We want to make the right choice, and we want to make sure that we are the right choice for that organization as well.” This stringent selection process reflects MPG’s commitment to maintaining a family-like atmosphere within the organization.

Shared Core Values

Integrity, honesty, and honorability are foundational cornerstones for MPG and its members. Wiltshire stated, “All of those qualities are extremely important to us,” and highlighted the organization’s proactive approach in monitoring members’ online presence on platforms such as Google, LinkedIn, Facebook, Yelp, and addressing any negative reviews promptly.

Wiltshire emphasizes the importance of the relationships MPG has built with its approximately 150 vendor partners through the Preferred Equipment Provider Program. She notes, “In March and October of every year, when our members get together, we invite those vendors to attend as well. There are great networking and communication opportunities throughout our three-day program, fostering great relationship building.” Wiltshire emphasizes the significance of these relationships, especially during critical times like the unprecedented ice storm in Texas, where the vendor partnerships proved instrumental in supporting and aiding MPG members.

MPG Vendors Show

A Commitment to Educating Pool Builders

At the core of MPG’s mission is education, and Wiltshire explains the various avenues the organization employs to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing. She highlights the collaboration with Genesis organization and Watershape University, providing optional education for members during meetings. Additionally, the organization partners with vendor allies to offer online education components throughout the year, ensuring a continuous flow of knowledge. “We feel like on all of those touch points, we are doing everything we can do to give our members the ability to get as much continuing education as possible,” says Wiltshire.

Wiltshire elaborates on the guidelines for becoming an MPG member, underscoring the organization’s commitment to maintaining high standards. “Some of those guidelines are that the business has to have been in existence for a minimum of five years. There can be no bankruptcies in the past. We ask that they build primarily gunite pools, and there should be no other memberships with other associations in our industry, competing associations,” she explains. These stringent criteria ensure that MPG continues to uphold its reputation for excellence.

Connecting With Master Pools Guild

For emerging professionals eager to join the ranks of Master Pools Guild (MPG), Wiltshire encourages aspiring members to explore various channels to connect. “There’s a place on our website that allows you access to the contact information for our office anytime anyone would like to reach out to us.” The MPG website serves as a gateway for potential members, offering valuable insights and contact information. Wiltshire emphasizes her openness to conversations, inviting individuals to reach out and discover more about the organization.

MPG’s website serves not only as an informational hub for its members but also as a valuable search tool for homeowners seeking top-tier builders. Wiltshire details, “The guild office has the goal of providing an avenue from the consumer to our member builders. If you click through and enter a zip code or a location, it will dial you down to your nearest Master Pools Guild member builder.” This initiative underscores MPG’s commitment to facilitating connections between discerning homeowners and elite pool builders.

While the website serves as a centralized resource, Wiltshire also highlights the importance of personal connections within the MPG community. “Any Master Pools Guild member builder that someone knows is a wonderful resource. My office can give you everything you need, but if you really want insight into what it means to be a Masterpools Guild member, you will not find a better resource than an existing member.”

Left to Right: Teri Wiltshire (MPG), Carol Gigliotti & Marianne Trusty (Pool Magazine)
Left to Right: Teri Wiltshire (MPG), Carol Gigliotti & Marianne Trusty (Pool Magazine)

Welcoming The Next Generation

As the pool industry continues to evolve, Master Pools Guild remains committed to cultivating a community of excellence. Whether through the digital realm, industry events, or direct connections with current members, MPG offers a multitude of avenues for aspiring professionals to explore and join this exclusive network.

For those with a passion for craftsmanship, innovation, and a commitment to the highest standards in pool construction, Master Pools Guild stands ready to welcome the next generation of builders. The open-door policy and the wealth of knowledge within the existing community ensure that aspiring professionals will find the support and mentorship needed to thrive within the MPG family.

Listen to our interview with Teri Wiltshire, Executive Director of Master Pools Guild on the Pool Magazine podcast.

4.9/5 - (12 votes)

Continue Reading

Pool Builder

Pool Industry Profiles: Thomas Pools & Spas

Published

on

Industry Profiles: Thomas Pools & Spas

In the heart of California’s Central Valley, where the scorching summer sun dominates, Thomas Pools & Spas has been making a splash since 2005. Founded by Todd Thomas, this family-owned business based in Modesto, CA, has become a reputable name in the custom pool industry, specializing in the construction of residential inground pools and spas.

The journey began for Todd Thomas in the mid-2000s, as he transitioned from a role at a water district to discovering his passion for pool construction. Todd reminisces, “I fell in love with the construction of swimming pools. I worked three or four years, subcontracting, and kind of learned the ins and outs and decided I’d go get my contractor’s license and start doing it myself.”

Building Pools is a Family Affair

The family aspect of Thomas Pools & Spas became integral when Todd’s wife, Paula, joined the business to manage the administrative workload. As Thomas reflects on this transition, he shares, “Once the business started taking off, it was just getting too overwhelming for me to handle everything. So she stepped in to help me manage the business.” Fast forward nearly twenty years later and their thriving family business has become a leading name in Modesto for custom swimming pools.

Todd Thomas - Thomas Pools & Spas of Modesto, CA
Todd Thomas – Thomas Pools & Spas of Modesto, CA

Top Rated by Consumers

The Modesto Bee recently named Thomas Pools & Spas one of the best pool companies in Modesto. Todd Thomas expressed his excitement, stating, “That was awesome to hear. I think when you make a higher percentage of people happier than other companies, it reflects what you’re doing out there in the market. I’m very pleased they voted for us.”

The company’s unique approach sets it apart; not only does it excel in pool construction, but it also offers ongoing maintenance services. Thomas emphasizes, “We don’t build the pool and leave the customer behind. Once it’s finished our customers have the option to stick with us for however long they choose.” Thomas touts the fact that nearly all of his pool construction customers have become lifelong service and maintenance clients as well.

Thomas Pools & Spas - Modesto, CA

The Hands-On Approach Works

Being family-owned and operated, Thomas Pools & Spas takes pride in their hands-on approach. Todd, along with his two daughters who work for the company, ensures a personal touch. “I’m really hands-on, so I’m out there doing the plumbing, and I’m always with the customer through each individual stage of the job,” says Thomas. This level of involvement is a telling attribute of the firm’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

As Thomas Pools & Spas approaches its 20th anniversary, Todd reflects on some standout projects. One noteworthy project involved designing and executing the water feature at Bass Pro in Manteca. Another extravagant endeavor was creating a backyard water park for a client with an almost unlimited budget. Todd describes the project, saying, “It took a while, but that swimming pool certainly makes my highlight reel. The whole project ended up taking probably close to five or six months.”

Thomas Pools & Spas - Modesto Pool Builders

Finger on The Pulse in Central California

Central California, known for its warm climate, has seen a surge in pool ownership over the past few years. While the market has slowed through 2023, Todd believes this trend won’t diminish the desire for pool ownership, stating, “I think for California homeowners, it’s kind of a no-brainer that they’re going to build a pool in the backyard.” The desire to keep children entertained and safe at home has contributed to the growing popularity of backyard pools among the younger generation over the past three decades.

Knowing What The Market Wants

While fiberglass pools have gained market share, Todd explains why custom concrete pools remain the preferred choice in California. The flexibility of design is a crucial factor. Todd notes, “Because we can virtually build a swimming pool in any backyard, concrete remains the leading choice with consumers. With fiberglass pools, you’re kind of limited to a finite amount of shapes.”

Paula Thomas, who is responsible for most customer interactions, shared her insights into what’s moving the needle with today’s pool buyers. “Our customers in the Central Valley love waterfalls. We also do alot of raised decks with sheer descents. Deck jets, fire features, and laminar jets are also enormously popular with pool buyers,” Paula details. However, with these add-on features come additional costs, and Paula notes, “It just depends on the customer’s budget because when you start adding accessory features, the pool price starts getting pretty costly.” Keeping costs down while adding maximum value is something they’ve become laser-focused on.

Thomas Pools & Spas - Pool Builders in Modesto

The Post-Covid Landscape Looks Different

In a post-COVID environment, financing the dream of pool ownership has become more challenging with rising interest rates. Todd acknowledges the impact, stating, “It has affected us. It’s slowed things down a little.” The rise in both pool costs due to inflation and interest rates has prompted a shift in how customers have approached financing their dreams of pool ownership.

Another significant challenge has been the surge in material costs. Todd Thomas shed light on this issue, stating, “Just to give you an example. For one stick of one-inch PVC electrical conduit. We were paying $4 a stick. It’s $12 a stick now for a ten-foot stick.” The substantial increase in prices is not limited to a specific material but spans across various components required for pool construction.

As Todd discusses the inflationary impact, he notes, “Some things didn’t just double in price. Some things tripled.” This unprecedented rise in material costs has reverberated through the industry, affecting not only the bottom line for companies like Thomas Pools & Spas but also posing challenges for potential pool owners.

The consequences of these increased costs are tangible, influencing the overall price structure of pool construction. Todd reflects on the changes, stating, “Pre-COVID was probably around $32,000 for an entry-level pool. Now they’re probably right in the range of around $42,000 to $45,000. So you’re talking an extra $10,000 that’s just due to inflation.”

Adapting To a Changing Market

The ripple effect of these cost increases extends beyond the balance sheet. As materials become more expensive, customers may need to adjust their expectations or budgets for their dream pools. Despite these challenges, Thomas Pools & Spas remains committed to delivering high-quality projects while working closely with clients to find innovative solutions.

Reflecting on the changing landscape, Todd shares, “With the inflation, obviously the cost has gone up of the pool itself and then also the interest rate. It’s just kind of knocked a lot of people out of the market.” Despite these challenges, Thomas Pools & Spas has witnessed resilience as customers adapt, saving more or financing partially to achieve their goal of pool ownership.

Learn more about Thomas Pools & Spas, listen to our interview on the Pool Magazine podcast.

Photo Credits: Thomas Pools & Spas

5/5 - (9 votes)

Continue Reading

Pool News

2
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x