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Pool Designers: Million Dollar Pool Challenge Now Accepting Entries

The Million Dollar Pool Challenge is now accepting entries. The best designers in the industry will compete for the title of Top Pool Designer.

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Pool Designers: Million Dollar Pool Challenge Now Accepting Entries

In the heart of the bustling city of Las Vegas, the PSP Deck Expo is set to host an exciting and innovative event this fall – the 4th Annual Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge. Renowned figures in the pool design industry, Reid Schindler and Mike Farley, are teaming up to push the boundaries of creativity and expertise, inviting participants from across the spectrum of design to compete for the coveted title. The event promises a fascinating clash of design philosophies as new technology-driven approaches vie against the tried-and-true methods that have defined generations of pool design.

The Million Dollar Pool Challenge Unveiled

At the center of this exhilarating challenge is the question of whether the contemporary technological wave led by millennials can surpass the established and proven techniques championed by baby boomers. The Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge sets the stage for this competition, calling upon individuals, students, teams, and companies to submit their visionary pool designs for evaluation by a panel of industry experts.

Million Dollar Pool Challenge: Backstory and Inspiration

The challenge’s scenario revolves around a couple building their forever home on the picturesque intracoastal waterways of Miami Beach. As recent empty nesters, they envision a space that seamlessly caters to grand gatherings while retaining an intimate ambiance for family moments. The design must reflect their affinity for Latin-inspired art and decor, evoke warmth, and offer a nod to modern aesthetics. Their cherished pastimes, including visits to the local country club and leisurely boat rides to favored dining and shopping spots, serve as inspiration for the competing designers.

Submission Guidelines

The competition welcomes a broad range of participants, including individuals, students, teams, and companies, inviting them to submit their interpretations of a dream pool design.

To participate, submit a meticulously crafted scaled 2D plan. The heart of this challenge lies in the presentation and intricate detailing of the 2D plan, demanding your utmost creativity.

Supporting your plan are a maximum of eight supplementary graphics, all rendered using your chosen media. These graphics play a pivotal role in enhancing your presentation and providing additional insights into your vision.

Accompanying your design, provide a comprehensive paragraph that illuminates your design process or offers insightful explanations of the solution details you’ve woven into your creation.

Judging Criteria

The competition’s judging panel, comprised of six to eight industry experts, uses a point-based system to assess entries across four key criteria.

1. Aesthetic Quality

  • Evaluate the comprehensive visual appeal and execution technique of the 2D plan. Does it effectively and vividly present all components in a clear manner while maintaining the standards anticipated by a high-end clientele?
  • Appraise the supplementary components, including the 8 supporting graphics, videos, and presentation materials. Do these materials resonate with the expectations of a discerning high-end client? Do they successfully convey intricate details that transcend the scope of the 2D drawing?

2. Differentiation

  • Consider the designer’s adept utilization of materials. Do they harmonize seamlessly with the home’s essence and align with the desires and needs of the homeowners?
  • Assess the integration of modern design elements intertwined with Latin flair. Do these elements emanate a sense of novelty and vitality?
  • Examine the uniqueness of project areas, encompassing the Front Entry, Back Yard, Side Yard, and the transition to the Boat Dock.
  • Gauge the designer’s vision in utilizing the Riverflow Current System and Lazy River, pinpointing the synergy between concept and execution.
  • Critique the incorporation of the following features by the designer:
    • Art Displays
    • Sunken Firepit
    • Acrylic Glass
    • Splash Pad
    • Fire & Water
    • Outdoor Kitchen
    • Putting Green
    • Glass Tile Mural
    • Front Drive with Fountain

3. Functionality

  • Scrutinize the seamless interplay between the pool and home architecture. Does the design facilitate a harmonious integration of these elements?
  • Assess the fluidity between outdoor spaces, emphasizing their scalability and cohesiveness.
  • Reflect on the design’s accommodation of the client’s intent to host gatherings of 25-30 guests. Does the project successfully cater to this requirement?
  • Examine the project’s adept incorporation of the customer’s primary desires and needs, executed in an efficient and effective manner.
  • Evaluate the project’s success in preserving captivating vistas from within the home.

4. Practical Feasibility

  • Contemplate the design’s adherence to national and local safety and construction codes, to the extent of your knowledge.
  • Reflect on whether the design would garner the endorsement of an engineer, given its structural and executional integrity.
  • Gauge the overall potential of the presentation to captivate a clientele investing substantially in a backyard, exceeding $1 million.

Considerations for Enhancement

For those aiming to elevate their submissions, optional elements can be included:

  • A captivating two-minute video flythrough, available in either .mp4 or .mov format, offers a dynamic visual journey through your design.
  • A 3D physical model or any distinctive presentation support that amplifies the impact of your concept.

Important Notes About The Million Dollar Pool Challenge

  • The deadline for entries is September 21, 2023.
  • Entries are limited to a maximum of four individuals or teammates. However, only one representative from the group will receive airfare, accommodation, and per diem during the competition.
  • The evaluation process transcends the quantity of renderings, instead focusing intently on the quality of craftsmanship and the ingenious utilization of design to cater to the client’s aspirations.
  • To maintain an impartial judging process, the identity of the designer and their associated company remains confidential until the initial judging phase concludes. To facilitate this, kindly refrain from naming your plans or perspective renderings.
  • All design entries and accompanying videos become co-property of “The Million Dollar Pool Challenge,” allowing them to be disseminated across electronic and print platforms. Additionally, the design’s owner retains the right to distribute their design materials.

As each entrant’s creation journeys through these discerning categories, the judges wield their expertise to select the designs that exemplify unparalleled excellence, innovation, and potential. The criteria encompass a comprehensive spectrum, illuminating the many facets of design brilliance within the Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge.

Winners / Finalists

The top 5 finalists will receive a cash prize. The winner of the competition will receive a customized 1st place trophy.

$10,000.00 – 1st place (Sponsored by Riverflow Current Systems)
$3,000.00 – 2nd place
$1,250.00 – 3rd place
$750.00 – 4th place
$500.00 – 5th place

On Top of Prize Money, 5 Finalists will receive:

  • Up to $350 credit for airfare.
  • Up to $150 reimbursement for travel incidentals & meals.
  • Free Conference Super Pass for the 2023 PSP Deck Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada
  • Two-night hotel stay (November 13 – November 15)
  • Design presented in “The Million Dollar Pool Challenge” Conference Program Session
  • Exposure in leading industry print & digital publications. Finalists will appear in a future issue of Pool Magazine with the winning entry and project highlighted.
  • Link to company and design featured on www.themilliondollarpoolchallenge.com and www.poolmagazine.com

Sponsors:

This year’s Million Dollar Pool Challenge is proudly sponsored by Riverflow by Current Systems, Inc., Ledge Lounger, PHTA Wave Network Young Professionals, and Pool Magazine.

Why Enter The Million Dollar Pool Challenge?

Participating in the Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge offers design enthusiasts an unrivaled opportunity to showcase their innovative prowess, gain industry-wide recognition, and elevate their professional credibility. By competing among the finest minds in the field, entrants not only have the chance to have their designs evaluated by industry experts but also to establish themselves as trailblazers in the world of pool design. With the potential to have their winning creations featured in esteemed publications and a global platform, this challenge is a gateway to unveiling fresh perspectives, forging meaningful connections, and leaving an indelible mark on the future of design.

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Joe Trusty

Editor in Chief of Pool Magazine - Joe Trusty is also CEO of PoolMarketing.com, the leading digital agency for the pool industry. An internet entrepreneur, software developer, author, and marketing professional with a long history in the pool industry. Joe oversees the writing and creative staff at Pool Magazine.

To contact Joe Trusty email [email protected] or call (916) 467-9118 during normal business hours. For submissions, please send your message to [email protected]

Pool News

Landmark Aquatic Brings Poolside Adventures Attractions Nationwide

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Landmark Aquatic and Poolside Adventures partnership featuring AquaZip’N pool attractions

Poolside Adventures and Landmark Aquatic have joined forces to bring big-impact attractions with a small footprint to aquatic facilities across the country. The partnership pairs Poolside Adventures’ AquaClimb®, AquaZip’N® and AquaNinja® FLX attractions with Landmark’s expansive nationwide reach and proven expertise in aquatic facility design, construction, renovation, and maintenance.

Poolside Adventures attractions add excitement to aquatic facilities without a major renovation because they anchor directly to an existing pool deck with no water hookups, special tools or added concrete and reinforcement. In fact, the modular AquaClimb® walls can start with one section and grow with budgets. The AquaZip’N® is rapidly becoming a new, safer alternative to diving boards as it only requires four feet of water depth, can be installed in just a few hours, and has a throughput of six riders a minute.

“Some municipalities can’t afford a new water park or perhaps cannot renovate their pool this year,” said Cherie Moy, VP of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships for Poolside Adventures. “Our products are an easy answer: a big impact with a small footprint, adding an ‘active attraction’ that makes the pool more exciting.”

“Landmark has a large footprint across the country, and we’re especially excited about their reach into HOA communities, a growing market where our partnership has already led to multiple installations,” said Moy. “Together, we will help clients find the right fit for their space, their budget and to add action and adventure to their pool experience.”

Matt Cappello, Vice President of Design at Landmark Aquatic agrees saying, “We’re excited to collaborate with Poolside Adventures to promote the versatility, ease of installation and entertainment value their products will bring to more pools across the country.”

About Landmark
Since 1967, Landmark Aquatic has helped communities and organizations bring complex aquatic facilities to life and keep them performing. Today, we are the nation’s largest integrated commercial aquatics platform, providing design, construction, renovation, restoration, and maintenance services nationwide. Our construction-led expertise and long-term service capabilities give customers one trusted partner across every stage of a facility’s lifecycle. For the life of your pool. Learn more at www.landmarkaquatic.com.

About Poolside Adventures
For more than 20 years, Poolside Adventures’ flagship AquaClimb® has led the market for poolside climbing walls. Its full line, including the AquaClimb® Luxe, AquaZip’N® and AquaNinja® FLX, delivers challenging, safe fun for swimmers of all ages. For more about Poolside Adventures visit www.aquaclimb.com
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Shasta Pools Hires 30-Year Builder to Head Residential Construction

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Shasta Pools 60th anniversary logo over a custom swimming pool

Vic Harshman brings extensive pool building experience to key leadership role

  • Decades of proven pool construction experience across Nevada, Arizona and Texas
  • Previously served as Shasta Pools’ exclusive excavation contractor
  • Predecessor handpicked Harshman to grow position under new leadership team

SCOTTSDALE, Arizona (October 5, 2026) – Shasta Pools, Phoenix Metro’s most recognized pool builder, named Vic Harshman as Head of Residential Construction. Harshman joins the new leadership team with more than three decades of hands-on industry experience and a long-standing relationship with the company to one of its most critical leadership roles.

Harshman has held senior construction leadership positions in Arizona and Texas, and worked closely with Shasta Pools, developing firsthand knowledge about the company’s standards, culture and customers. The appointment reflects the momentum Shasta Pools has built since its August 6 acquisition by Dansons Capital Group, Accrual Equity Partners, and Hydro Construction, and positions the full-service 60-year old pool company for continued growth.

CPO Class - Virtual Online Classes - Become a Certified Pool Operator

Leadership Perspective
“Vic brings exactly the kind of no-nonsense, customer-first leadership our residential construction division needs,” said Jeff Thiessen, President, Dansons Capital Group. “His philosophy is deeply aligned with ours. Keeping customers’ needs as the foremost priority at every stage of the build process is at the center of everything we do, and Vic lives that every day.”

Harshman’s career in pool construction began at age 19, when he purchased a backhoe and launched a business digging plumbing trenches and footings. When the housing market declined in the late 1980s, he relocated to Las Vegas and began excavating swimming pools, a move that led to the creation of Harshman Excavating.

Harshman built and operated excavation businesses in Nevada, Arizona and Texas, primarily serving the pool industry, and served for a period as Shasta’s exclusive excavation contractor.

In 2012, Harshman joined A&A Manufacturing, serving pool builders across an eight-state region and growing annual sales by 10x. In 2020, he joined Keith Zars Pools in Texas as Director of Construction, where he brought together decades of ownership, leadership and industry knowledge.

A Return Rooted in Relationships
“I have always believed that strong relationships, hard work, accountability and taking care of people are the foundation of a successful business,” said Vic Harshman, Head of Residential Construction, Shasta Pools. “Shasta has been a meaningful part of my career for many years. I am genuinely excited to come back and help lead this team into a very exciting future.”

Harshman steps into the role with the full support of Dan Thiessen, Chairman of the new ownership team, and John Mortensen, the outgoing head of residential construction. Mortensen recommended Harshman for the position and will now serve as the company’s lead trainer. That transition reflects Shasta Pools’ commitment to investing in its people and preserving institutional knowledge as the organization continues to grow.

ABOUT SHASTA POOLS:
Shasta Pools is Arizona’s trusted name in custom pool building, proudly serving the Valley since 1966. For 60 years, Shasta has transformed backyards into beautiful, functional spaces where families relax, entertain and enjoy life. The company specializes in new pool construction, remodeling, pool service and landscape design with plans for expansion into the home services market to provide customers with complete home care solutions. Learn more at ShastaPools.com.

ABOUT DANSONS CAPITAL GROUP:
Dansons Capital Group, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a family-owned and family-managed investment firm built on shared values, integrity and long-term vision. The firm was established by the founders of Dansons, Inc., the company that launched and sold Pit Boss Grills. The company takes a hands-on approach, actively seeking opportunities across global markets and multiple asset classes. Its growing portfolio includes strategic real estate development holdings across multiple countries, oil drilling technologies, and limited partnership investments. Guided by a deep commitment to quality and the communities they serve, the Thiessen family leads with gratefulness for the blessings God has given them and in turn supports those less fortunate. Dansons Capital Group continues to identify and cultivate opportunities that reflect their family’s values and generational vision.

ABOUT ACCRUAL EQUITY PARTNERS:
Accrual Equity Partners (AEP) is a founder-led, privately funded private equity group built on the belief that every person, every percentage, and every product matters. This commitment, known as the “Power of One,” drives AEP’s mission to empower businesses and secure legacies across fragmented, service-based industries. AEP partners with founder-led and family-owned businesses to overcome barriers and unlock their full potential through strategic investment, operational performance enhancement, and advisory services. For more information, visit AccrualEquityPartners.com.

ABOUT HYDRO CONSTRUCTION:
Hydro Construction, LLC (HydroCon) was founded in 1986 to serve Arizona’s commercial pool construction and renovation market. Under the leadership of Curt Lonsdale, the company’s commercial pool construction division now manages some of the largest and most complex projects in the country.

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NTCA Welcomes Jennifer Ibe and Rachel Smith to the Team

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Jennifer Ibe and Rachel Smith join the NTCA team

Flowood, MS, October 1 – The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is pleased to announce the addition of Jennifer Ibe as Membership and Sponsorship Sales Manager and Rachel Smith as Membership Marketing Manager. The two new positions strengthen NTCA’s focus on membership growth, retention, engagement, and delivering greater value to members.

“Growing and strengthening our membership is a key priority for the NTCA, and Jennifer and Rachel bring the experience and expertise to help us do that,” said Jeremy Sax, Deputy Director of NTCA. “Their complementary skills will allow us to take a more strategic approach to both membership development and the overall member experience.”

Jennifer Ibe, Membership and Sponsorship Sales Manager

Ibe brings more than 10 years of experience in association events, sales, sponsorships, relationship management, and strategic growth. Most recently, she served as Director of Sponsorship and Sales for the Global Workspace Association, where she led major conferences, sponsorship development, budgets, and initiatives that increased attendance by 33% and profitability by 30%.

At the NTCA, Ibe will lead membership recruitment, retention, re-engagement, and relationship development while supporting sponsorship and partner revenue opportunities. She will also represent the NTCA at major industry events and help strengthen relationships with members and prospective members.

Ibe holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Rachel Smith, Membership Marketing Manager

Smith brings extensive association experience in membership, communications, digital engagement, and member programming. Most recently, she served as Digital Communications Manager for the Association of Electric Companies of Texas. Previously, as Director of Membership for the Texas Economic Development Council, she managed more than 1,000 members and developed programs to increase member engagement and networking. She also served as Membership Coordinator for the Texas Association of Community Health Centers, where she managed more than 5,000 members and led new-member onboarding and retention initiatives.

At NTCA, Smith will focus on member onboarding, retention campaigns, communications, digital engagement, webinars, events, and community development. She will also support membership analytics and digital initiatives aimed at strengthening the member experience.

Smith holds a B.A. in Communications with a minor in Social Justice from West Virginia Wesleyan College.

“Jennifer’s focus on relationship-building and membership development, combined with Rachel’s experience in member communications and engagement, gives us a strong team focused on every stage of the member journey,” Sax added. “We’re excited about what this means for our members and for the future growth of NTCA.”

About NTCA
Established in 1947, the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to the professional installation of ceramic tile and natural stone. It is widely recognized as the largest and most respected tile contractors’ association in the world. For those seeking to improve their tile business, NTCA provides unparalleled educational experiences, supportive peer interaction, unique cost-savings programs, and a commitment to help develop the skills needed to improve your work, recruit, train, and manage your employees, and ultimately, make your business more profitable. Find out more at www.tile-assn.com.

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