Professional Watershaping

Charging for Design
Charging a fee for design work is one of the foundations of true professionalism across multiple disciplines. That's why Michael W. Nantz won't give away his watershape ideas, partly because it's a solid revenue stream, but also because it builds up a base of pride and self-esteem.
Why the Wolf?
 We've been asked why Watershape University (WU) chose the wolf as its mascot, and why by extension we refer to our team - of students, faculty and partners -- as the "wolfpack"? The simplest answer is that we're basing our organization on the higher-education model, which is why we're a "University." And, in the collegiate world, everyone has a mascot. From the Razorbacks of the University of Arkansas to the Banana Slugs of
Ready to Return
Watershapes University is ready to resume presenting our unique brand of industry education in front of live audiences. Starting in August WU launches an ambitious calendar of events, strategically scattered throughout the country to provide access to as many industry members as possible. We get started August 7-9 in Hamilton New Jersey at the Northeast Spa & Pool Association's (NESPA) headquarters with our new, three-day course on
Imagine a World
Steve Kenny believes it's time for aquatic professionals to add a new specialty -- one devoted entirely to elevating water quality in both commercial and residential settings. The first step, he says, is imagining a world in which excellence in water quality is simply the norm.   
Hot-Weather Shotcrete
Placing shotcrete in hot weather can be a risky proposition if you don't follow basic guidelines.  Success under these conditions, reports William Drakeley, calls for controlling concrete temperature and mix design while also managing details of the installation and curing processes.    
Nurturing Leaders
"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader." - John Quincy Adams   At Watershape University (WU) our entire structure and guiding focus is based on the concept of
WU Launches Wolfpack Webinar Wednesdays
As members of the watershaping industry and the rest of the world ride it out during the COVID 19 pandemic, Watershape University has its sights set on the future with a variety of live schools and new content in the works. We are, however, also focused on the here and now, and we know that many of you are looking for ways to take advantage of online educational opportunities during this time of social distancing. That's why we decided to
Guided by Sight
Designing with line of sight in mind is something I think about a lot. Knowing where to place things so they will be seen, or in some cases not seen, is arguably square one in the design process. That's why when I talk to my clients one of the first things I ask is, "What's the most important view in the house?" I start there because it's something they are going to be looking at 365 days a year, probably morning, noon and night. The answers are mostly the same, the living room, dining room or kitchen. Every once in a while, someone
Meetings of Blue Minds
Since joining Watershape University (WU) last fall, one of the most intriguing, and I believe inspiring, ideas we've pursued has been the plan to develop the Live Blue Foundation (LBF) as a companion organization. For those who might be wondering what the LBF is all about, and how it ties in with WU, here's a brief synopsis. The concept for LBF stems from the revolutionary work of
A Launch Interrupted
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought suffering and loss to many. It has certainly challenged everyone's patience and forced us to find creative ways to move forward on the work front from the confines of home. For some, that's proven impossible and they are truly stuck at home with little or nothing to do. Others are luckier and can earn the daily bread in isolation, or quarantine. Many bravely soldier on in medical facilities, grocery stores, delivery services and other essential businesses.