Pools & Spas

Detail P401: Suction Outlet Configurations
Drains, or more accurately, suction outlets, should be easily understood. Setting up safe and code-compliant outlet configurations involves simple plumbing with no moving parts, and it requires a relatively straightforward coordination of outlet sizing to maximum flow rate. But, as Dave Peterson explains, some builders are still getting it wrong. Fortunately, this simple detail can help many get it right. ...
Water in the Air
Do pools raise humidity? Given that moisture content of the air is the result of evaporation, the vast majority from the ocean, is it possible that areas with high numbers of pools experience more humid conditions? If so, do pools ironically compromise the outdoor experience rather than offer comfort? Eric Herman tackles those questions, with an eye toward separating fact from “suburban” myth.   ...
Essential Inner-City Pools
Los Angeles has opened two community pools that officials and local citizens hope will bring the joy, health and safety of swimming to a community that for too long has not had a place to cool off and swim a few laps. ...
Glassy Permutations
Glass tile has long been one of, if not the, most distinctive material used in swimming pools. Applying the science of optical physics, inventor David Knox of Lightstreams Glass Tile, takes on projects that require one-of-a-kind tile creations for designers and clients that want something no one else has. ...
The Challenge of Saying “No”
Watershape designer, landscape architect and educator, Jason Brownlee, is typically in the habit of embracing the opportunities that come his way. But as he explains here, sometimes saying no, or at least, not now, is the more beneficial response. That’s especially true in the current market where the demand is pushing watershapers in all categories to their practical limits. ...
Extravagant Depths
A place known for breaking records, Dubai in the U.A.E now boasts the world’s deepest pool. Deep Dive Dubai recently opened its doors providing adventure seekers with an aquatic experience that is unlike any other, one that includes an underwater city and a host of innovative features and amenities. ...
DETAIL I510: Waterline Tile
While many watershapers discuss the challenges of water-in-transit edge details, we can't ignore the complexity of the traditional tiled waterline, says Dave Peterson. The concept has been around before any of us were born but materials have changed and what was once considered mundane has become a topic of discussion again – particularly in light of waterproofing considerations. ...
Finished to Perfection
There are projects in which the design details define every phase of the work from excavation to the interior finish. As builder Dave Penton explains here, this dazzling watershape was one of those where precise tolerances and creative execution led to a setting worthy of the stars.     ...
Advancing Aquatic Education
In its continuing campaign to support professionalism in all facets of the watershaping industry, Watershape University is joining forces with the Association of Aquatic Professionals (AoAP) and the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC) and is set to offer a menu of presentations at the AoAP’s Conference & Exposition this coming February. ...
Building Educational Bridges
Watershape University is ready to meet the increasing need for industry education, both online and in person, across a spectrum of mission-critical topic areas. Co-founder, Dave Peterson, recently appeared on an episode of Ask the Master’s podcast showcasing the range of programs WU is delivering in the post-pandemic era. ...