Commentaries, Interviews & Profiles

Bridging Land & Water
The world of landscape architecture is very different from that of the pool designer/builder. Although the two disciplines share many common aspects and objectives, the approach to the process can be very, very different. Designer Scott Pancake has worked on both sides of the equation and has come to value the possibilities of combining both worlds. ...
Meet the Water-Quality Manager
Caring for pool water is a sacred trust, says Steve Kenny, a task that exists to ensure the health and safety of anyone and everyone who takes a dip. That’s why he believes it’s time for a new professional designation for those who apply artisan care to their clients water, the Water-Quality Manager. ...
New World Horizons
For Joan Roca, coming to America from Central America was the result of professional evolution and a process of personal growth, all of which led him to a new home in Florida, and a much bigger and more demanding watershape market. As a watershape designer, he explains, the U.S. offered the best opportunity to pursue his highest creative ambitions. ...
End of the Endless Summer
The lives of beach bums, surfer girls and hodads everywhere have become less comfortable in recent years, observes Eric Herman. In fact, the summer of 2023 might stand as the most unpleasant beach season ever, and one that sadly concluded with the passing of summer's high priest, Jimmy Buffett.  ...
The Hidden Wonder of Abiqua Creek
Time spent in the company of natural waters can become an obsession, and those experiences can fuel the creative spirit with inspiration and endless “design” ideas. Here Eric Herman recalls a day trip to a place in Oregon that stands as a perfect example of the serendipity of days devoed to seeking hidden wonders. ...
Blistering Ocean Temps Break Records
The water temperatures of the world’s oceans are rapidly on the rise. The result of elevating atmospheric carbon dioxide levels that are causing a host of extreme weather conditions the world over. Ocean-temperature rise is accelerating at unprecedented rates with a host of serious possible ramifications in its wake. ...
Mulch vs. Cobblestone (The Groundcover Battle for Garden Supremacy)
When it comes to landscaping and gardening, choosing the right groundcover is essential for the health and vitality of plants. While options like gravel or cobblestone may seem appealing for their durability and low maintenance, there are several drawbacks to consider, and one very good alternative. ...
A Question of Leadership
As the pool and spa industry continues to surge into a seemingly bright future, veteran designer Kevin Woodhurst asks big questions about where our industry will find the leaders of tomorrow. The answers, he believes, come from within those who have witnessed the industry’s dynamic evolution. ...
The Perils of Ocean Acidification
The data is clear, the vast ocean of planet earth is becoming more acidic as atmospheric carbon dioxide levels increase. But what does that change really mean? Is ocean acidification a problem now, or in the future? Or is it just a point of passing interest as nature adapts to changing conditions? ...
A Question of Intelligence
Is AI changing the world as we know it, and is that change for the better? While many people see only positives in the form of instant efficiencies and capabilities, others are not quite so hasty in their assessments. ...