Aquatic Technology

– some things useful, others not so much

Square Roots & Cross Purposes
Tailoring pool designs that marry the clients’ desires with the setting is always top-of-mind for Joan Roca. Here, he describes a project on the Florida coast that stands as a perfect example of his design approach. In this case, he turned to a basic shape and a host of custom details, to create a watershape that offers function, and a striking centerpiece that unifies house, land and sea.     ...
Nature Made by Design
According to pond specialist, Larry Carnes, in order to mimic nature when designing and building ponds, waterfalls and streams, the process involves a comprehensive understanding of geological principles, the plant kingdom, water treatment, and how to avoid telltale mistakes. ...
Durable for Dolphins
When it came time to install the interior surface at a Florida dolphin facility, Cameron Rhodes turned to a relatively new spray-on treatment designed to enhance plaster durability – a move that prevented damage from a desperate and highly unusual measure during the filling process.  ...
Poolside Perspectives Podcast Comes Online
Veteran watershapers Kevin Woodhurst and Mike Farley are teaming up for a new podcast targeting consumers with an eye toward elevating the industry’s public image. Titled Poolside Perspectives, the weekly podcast will feature in-depth interviews, valuable information and more. ...
Indoor Water & Air Quality (part II)
Air quality in natatoriums, and ultimately the comfort and health of people using and working at those facilities, relies on a careful balance between operating parameters and system design. As Eric Knight explains here, achieving outstanding indoor air requires understanding the interrelated nature of these spaces and the systems designed to maintain optimum conditions.   ...
The Vermiculite Touch
In the world of concrete, vermiculite is in some ways an unusual material – a lightweight aggregate that creates a durable and ultra-smooth substrate for vinyl liner pool. (It’s also widely used as a soil amendment in agriculture.) Phoenix B. Owens has been using it in his pools for decades, and believe with the right touch, vermiculite is a perfect choice. ...
Conservation by Example
Despite some of the driest weather on the planet, Israel has become a “water superpower.” The desert nation has for decades led the world in water conservation, infrastructure and resource development – lessons that could potentially have a significant impact in other drought-stricken regions. ...
Reusing Water
Is reusing water for irrigation, industry, construction and even drinking a viable solution to water shortages? In a purely practical sense, reports Eric Herman, the answer is a resounding yes; but, when it comes to public perception, there are big hurdles waiting be to overcome. ...