Pools & Spas
The popularity and presence of urban bathhouses are on the rise, a trend driven by post-pandemic demand for healthy communal experiences among urban consumers. A mainstay of civilized societies for centuries the world over, public bathing facilities experienced sharp decline in the second half of the 20th century, but may once again play an important role in physical, mental and “social” wellness.
...
The benefits and importance of bather cleanliness are well established. From managing water quality to preventing the spread of waterborne diseases, showering stands as one of the frontline swimmer-health measures. As Paolo Benedetti points out here, showers also represent an opportunity to add value to the watershape environment with interesting designs, materials and by enhancing the experience of getting wet.
...
As wild fires increase with frequency and intensity year after year, the idea of using swimming pool water to fight fires is gaining ground with many homeowners and general contractors. This simple detail enables firefighters to quickly access water that would otherwise be unavailable when it could be needed most.
...
This beautiful project nestled on the Connecticut shores of the Long Island Sound required a careful balance of robust construction and design, and careful adherence to environmental codes protecting the adjacent oceanic rock formations and biologically sensitive tide pools. It was a steep challenge, explains Bill Drakeley, but he and his company welcomed the opportunity.
...
Drakeley Pool Co. takes on a broad range of projects, from massive commercial installations to super high-end residential projects. The company also refurbishes historic watershapes, a discipline that requires careful adherence to the original design. Featured here, Bill Drakeley shares a simple gem of a project designed by 20th Century modernist master, Marcel Breuer.
...
Watershape University encompasses a range of educational ideals and attributes that we believe set us apart from other educational resources focused on constructing swimming pools and other types of decorative and recreational water. We take pride in working to be the best at helping others raise their sights and up their game.
...
There are two basic ways to reduce noise generated by pool equipment: either enclose it, or stop the noise at the source. In this simple and useful detail, Dave Peterson offers an elegant solution to pump noise and vibration that can be used across a range of watershaping systems, big or small, inside or out.
...
Innovative inks and evolving manufacturing techniques are transforming vinyl liners used in swimming pools, says David Sones of Canadian General Tower. As consumers demand visually dynamic patterns and textures, the industry is responding with a class of luxury liners designed to shimmer and shine.
...
At the turn of the 20th Century, San Francisco’s Sutro Baths was the world's largest indoor aquatic facility. Although now in ruins, the baths are still a popular spot for visitors looking for a glimpse of the city’s storied past and a classic example of watershaping innovation.
...
The idea of installing a beach-entry fiberglass pool in an actual beach appealed to Scott Prunty, especially given the pool would be featured at a local surfing contest. With a short window to install and fill the pool, Prunty and his team created a conspicuous VIP hub.
...
