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WaterShapes – March 25, 2021, Welcome Back, Hayward CEO Interview and View Mastery

July 23, 2021

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2021/2.1, February 3 – Angular Agility, Edgy Detail, Grass Action and more

February 4, 2021

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DESIGN ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION

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WHO MAKE WATER AND OUTDOOR LIVING PART OF THEIR LIVES

February 3, 2021 www.watershapes.com

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Art of the Angle

This beautiful, ultra-contemporary southern California project featured a number of shapely features designed to harmonize with the home’s architecture. For Kevin Cobabe, it was an opportunity to apply his skills as a design-facing builder who can handle complicated equipment sets as well as the fine artistic touches. [more]

BENEATH THE SURFACE

Detail: A825

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Tectonics is defined as the science, or art, of assembling, shaping, or ornamenting materials in construction; the constructive arts in general. David Peterson often uses the term while discussing finish details he and his team have created. Detail: A825 is one tectonic solution for a stainless-steel vanishing edge. [more]

FEATURE ARTICLE

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The Grass Menagerie

Despite water usage concerns, grass remains a mainstay in both commercial and residential landscapes. Working with grass, explains Mike Logsdon, usually requires some level of moderation and a knack for knowing how to ply the multitudinous types of grasses for the greatest effect, based on client expectations and anticipated grassy needs. [more]]

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I am NOT the Walrus

During the chill of winter, when most pools are closed and covered, and many natural bodies of water iced over, some intrepid souls brave the cold and take the plunge anyway. It’s a form of discomfort, they say, that comes with significant benefits not found in warmer temps. [more]

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DIRECT CONNECTIONS

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Collecting & Using Survey Data

No matter how sophisticated your design software, it’s not worth much without accurate site data, explains designer Ryan Oakes. And like design, the process of information gathering on site has been dramatically enhanced by modern technology. Understanding how data and design go hand-in-hand is integral to successful design. [more]

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The True Value of Sea Turtles

In his campaign to raise awareness of the importance and benefits of an aquatic lifestyle, Dr. Wallace J. Nichols has declared 2021 “A Year of Blue Mind.” Each day he publishes a different Blue Mind-related item on his Patreon page. This wonderful essay was published on day 23. [more]

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WOLFPACK CORNER

Accurate Estimating Support

Failure to accurately estimate and price projects is a common and costly misstep. Reliable cost-estimating should be a cornerstone of all watershaping contractors, which is why Watershape University is now offering an online/on-demand version of its popular “Business 3452: Essential Cost Estimating Workshop.” [more]

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ESSENTIAL

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Graceful Reflections

The potency of water’s reflective nature is a component of watershaping that is all too often ignored or left to chance, says renowned environmental artist Anthony Archer Wills. When considered from the outset of a project, however, the brilliance and subtlety of a reflection is something he uses to completely transform the experience of viewing water in ways that become ongoing sources of delight and fascination for his clients. [more]

This article, originally published in WaterShapes in February 2007, has been digitized for all readers.

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So You Don’t Have To…

Non-Profit WaterStart Makes Connections: Matching innovative water technologies with immediate need might just point the way to a brighter future defined by more effective water treatment and distribution. [more]

Water-wise technology points to a smarter tomorrow.

Seven Dazzling Dubai Rooftop Pools: Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is famous for its wildly adventurous architecture and urban development. Naturally, it boasts some of the world’s most daring rooftop pools. [more]

The views are to die for, just don’t look down!.

Hayward Offers OmniPL Controller

Hayward Pool Products (Berkeley Height. N.J.) makes the OmniPL, a control system designed for pool builders looking for control at a mid-range price. The system controls up to eight variable-speed pumps and is saltwater chlorination ready. It also provides added lighting color options and dimming capability. For details click here.

Paramount Produces the VectorJet

Paramount Pool & Spa Systems (Chandler, Ariz.) makes the VectorJet, an adjustable in-floor cleaning system head. The fixture’s oscillating, sweeping action directs water and debris toward other in-floor cleaning jets and/or the main drain. Its adjustable angle is well suited for beach entries or vanishing edge catch basins. For details, click here.

Corporate Engagement Teammates

Watershape University appreciates the support of the following industry leaders. . .

2021/1.2, January 20 — A Diving Pond, Step Elevations, Enticing Grandkids, and more

January 28, 2021

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DESIGN ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR PROFESSIONALS AND CONSUMERS

WHO MAKE WATER AND OUTDOOR LIVING PART OF THEIR LIVES

January 20, 2021 www.watershapes.com

FEATURE ARTICLE

Diving into a Dream

There’s something liberating about jumping from a high perch then plunging into pristine waters below, a thrill that’s as old as humankind, observes Anthony Archer Wills. That’s the dream a recent client wanted for herself and family, a sensation he was all too happy to create in the form of a unique “diving pond. [more]

BENEATH THE SURFACE

Detail: A171

Vertical dimensions in floating steps can be critical to walking safety. In our last Beneath the Surface Detail, we coordinated the human stride to basic step geometry in a plan view, now Dave Peterson looks at this detail from a different angle: an elevation view. [more]

FEATURE ARTICLE

Battle for the Grandkids

While fun has always been a big part of watershaping, there’s a relatively recent generational twist to it, explains Scott Cohen, one being driven by grandparents who are taking a decidedly competitive approach to motivating their kids’ kids to spend time with the old folks. [more]]

Fighting Thirst

Solving world-wide water supply problems might just come down answering complex materials science questions on the molecular level. According to new research, life-saving breakthroughs in the desalination process may be possible by way of understanding the way water moves through reverse-osmosis membranes. [more]

DIRECT CONNECTIONS

Eyes on Sites

Watershape University launched its 2021 online educational offerings with a detailed primer on site evaluation and surveying in a January Wolfpack Webinar Wednesdays presentation. Taught by Rob Warren, a member of the International Watershape Institute, the presentation covered what watershapers should keep in mind when gathering key site-based information. [more]

Fins of the Father

Unbeknownst to many, one of our nation’s Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin, was arguably also our “founding” swimming enthusiast. Along with helping us win our freedom and establish the nation’s system of government, Franklin had quite a lot to say about the value of swimming – along the way, he even invented swim fins. [more]

WOLFPACK CORNER

Making the Grade

Watershape University recently secured an important benchmark in its campaign to elevate the watershaping industry with its brand of marquee educational programs – evidence that when the Wolfpack sets its sights on an outcome, it does not stop until the objective is achieved. . [more]

ESSENTIAL

Welcoming Waters

For years, watergarden specialist Bob Dews has built his reputation by designing and installing streams, cascades and ponds of remarkable beauty and extraordinary realism. Lately, as he explains here, he’s embraced a new trend by executing projects in the front yards of clients who want a bit of tranquility to ease and invigorate their daily comings and goings and greet visitors with the sort of experience previously only found behind these homes. [more]

This article, originally published in WaterShapes in April 2009, has been digitized for all readers.

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So You Don’t Have To…

Are Octopuses pH Sensitive? A recent study at Walla Walla University examined the effects of acidic water on octopuses, potentially bringing new insight into both how our activities impact the world around us, and how we’re responding. [more]

We can learn much from our eight-tentacled friends.

Invention of the swimming pool: Because man-made pools date back so far, it’s tough to pinpoint their creation, but historians do think this one in Pakistan is the probably the first. Historians believe it was used for religious rituals and not swimming.

[more]

Although empty, it appears to have endured well through the rigors of time.

Pentair Improves AquaTRAM 90+

Pentair (Sanford, N.C.) has upgraded its AquaTRAM 90+ pool access lift. The lift rotates 90 degrees for ease of pool access, and has an increased lifting capacity of 400 pounds. The company also improved the chairs “reach” to clear spa benches and most types of gutters. It includes flip-up arm rests, a comfortable seat with a lap belt. It is fully ADA compliant. For details click here.

Fountain People Make Modern Scuppers

Fountain People (San Marcos, Tex.) offers three modern, sleek brass scuppers that are easy to install and operate. The scuppers are made of machined brass and have a natural brass finish. They emit a smooth flow of water and come in five-, 10- and 15-gpm models. Their clean and simple design complements both traditional and contemporary styles. For details, click here.

Corporate Engagement Teammates

Watershape University appreciates the support of the following industry leaders. . .

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2021/1.2, January 20 — A Diving Pond, Step Elevations, Enticing Grandkids, and more . . .

January 20, 2021

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DESIGN ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION

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WHO MAKE WATER AND OUTDOOR LIVING PART OF THEIR LIVES

January 20, 2021 www.watershapes.com

FEATURE ARTICLE

Diving into a Dream

BENEATH THE SURFACE

Detail: A171

FEATURE ARTICLE

Battle for the Grandkids

Fighting Thirst

DIRECT CONNECTIONS

Eyes on Sites

Fins of the Father

WOLFPACK CORNER

Making the Grade

ESSENTIAL

Welcoming Waters

This article, originally published in WaterShapes in April 2009, has been digitized for all readers.

We Browse

So You Don’t Have To…

We can learn much from our eight-tentacled friends.

[more]

Although empty, it appears to have endured well through the rigors of time.

Pentair Improves AquaTRAM 90+

Fountain People Make Modern Scuppers

Corporate Engagement Teammates

Watershape University appreciates the support of the following industry leaders. . .

Uncategorized

2021/1.1, January 6 — Modernism on Spec, Detailing Strides, Heat Sources and more

January 9, 2021

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DESIGN ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR PROFESSIONALS AND CONSUMERS

WHO MAKE WATER AND OUTDOOR LIVING PART OF THEIR LIVES

January 6, 2021 www.watershapes.com

FEATURE ARTICLE

Modern Precision

Ben Lasseter welcomes challenging projects, especially those where the watershapes are integral to the home’s design. Working as part of an exclusive project team, one that included a legendary architect, Lasseter’s firm recently completed a shimmering all-white pool that is as much a part of the property’s aesthetics as the roofline of the house itself. [more]

BENEATH THE SURFACE

Detail: A170

User comfort and ease of movement are guiding principles in the watershape design process. As Dave Peterson explains, this edition’s Detail works as an ergonomic template applied when considering the steps users take as they move from here to there – and over the “space between.” [more]

FEATURE ARTICLE

Hot Water Options

While fossil-fuel heating dominates the pool market, and electric heating prevails in hot tubs, designer, builder and energy-efficiency specialist Douglas Cook sees value in keeping the alternatives in mind, especially for cost-minded and/or ecologically inclined homeowners, who might be open to sustainable water-heating solutions. [more]]

Big Achievements

Always trying to look on the bright side, Eric Herman offers a set of watershaping achievements from the past year worth noting. While such bright spots will never erase the memories of such a tough year, he points out that even in the darkest times, the beauty of watershaping shines through. [more]

DIRECT CONNECTIONS

Perfecting Plaster

On November 11, plasterer Rob Romano, of David Cook Plaster Co., and Bill Drakeley, WU cofounder, defined successful plaster installation in a lively Wolfpack Webinar Wednesdays presentation. The discussion was part of WU’s ongoing effort to provide basic as well as advanced technical instruction for watershape builders and subcontractors looking to elevate their performance. [more]

Designing a Design Business

Becoming a pure design firm in the pool and spa industry is not easy. The reason being, notes Mike Farley, the industry is geared entirely toward selling construction projects, rather than earning design commissions. For those looking to move into design, he suggests a book that defines the anatomy of a successful design business. [more]

WOLFPACK CORNER

Filling the Map

Despite the challenges of the past year, Watershape University’s International Watershapes Institute (IWI) has seen steady growth since the university was founded in fall 2019. As the roster of top-flight professionals increases, IWI’s values and goals are taking root and redefining the watershaping map. [more]

ESSENTIAL

A Crowning Achievement

The Crown Fountain in Chicago’s Millennium Park is an ingenious fusion of artistic vision and high-tech water effects in which sculptor Juame Plensa’ s creative concepts were brought to life by an interdisciplinary team that included the waterfeature designers at Crystal Fountains. Here, Larry O’Hearn describes how the firm met the challenge and helped give Chicago’s residents a defining landmark in glass, light, water and bright faces. [more]

This article, originally published in WaterShapes in April 2005, has been digitized for all readers.

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So You Don’t Have To…

How We Use Water: In an effort address water shortage and long-term sustainability, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers insight into and guidance about way to sensibly reduce water consumption. [more]

Every drop adds up, use wisely!

Water’s Unusual Physical Properties: This insightful article from the American Geosciences Institute explores the properties of the water molecule that make it so unusual in nature, from its ability to retain heat to its role at the “universal solvent.” [more]

The H2O molecule is truly awesome!

Fountain People Offers LOTUS Escutcheon

Fountain People (San Marcos, Tex.) offers the LOTUS bronze escutcheon, a wall-mounted fitting featuring a dark-bronze finish and decorative hand-burnished details. The fixture is designed for use as a cover plate for a hidden fountain nozzle or it can be wall or deck mounted. For details click here.

Pebble Tec With Seashells

PPebble Technology (Scottsdale, Ariz.) offers Shimmering Sea pebble pool finish, an organic combination of cultivated abalone and mother of pearl shells that offers a subtle spectrum of color on the water’s surface. Shimmering Sea is included in many of the company’s PebbleFina finishes, and it can be added the company’s other lines of finish products. For details, click here.

Corporate Engagement Teammates

Watershape University appreciates the support of the following industry leaders. . .

2020/12.2, December 16 — A Wavy Mosaic, Natural Expansion, Chemical Closets and more

December 22, 2020

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WHO MAKE WATER AND OUTDOOR LIVING PART OF THEIR LIVES

December 16, 2020 www.watershapes.com

FEATURE ARTICLE

Making New Waves

Water and air quality can spell the difference between an indoor pool environment that is pleasant and healthy versus one that is far from it. The need to resolve those issues led to Steve Kenny’s escalating involvement with this high-end, all-tile lap pool; a project that has unfolded over more than a dozen years.[more ]

BENEATH THE SURFACE

Detail: H101

Safe and secure chemical storage is a key consideration for commercial watershape facilities, or any aquatic setting where chemicals are kept in large quantities. This handy detail from Dave Peterson addresses the list of concerns and issues that arise from the need to store and control chlorine and acid supplies.[more]

FEATURE ARTICLE

Natural Inclinations

It started out as an innovative project that pointed toward a new type of pool. Ten years later, explains Ryan Harmer, BioNova’s flagship “natural swimming pool” was expanded to include multiple layers of biological water treatment, as well as aesthetic mastery. [more ]]

A Hopeful Holiday

Saying goodbye to 2020 has become an unofficial national, if not an international, pastime. As Eric Herman points out in his year-end homily, that’s especially true now as the holidays approach and a new year unfolds with the prospect of better, hopefully virus-free days ahead.[more]

DIRECT CONNECTIONS

Riding the Tides

Managing the torrent of sales leads can be a frustrating challenge for busy builders, renovators and service techs. There are some practical ways to ease the strain, says industry marketing consultant, Brett Abbot, which he shared on anAsk the Masterspodcast this past August. [more]

Splendor Beneath the Seas

Renowned sculptor, Jason deCaires Taylor believes that for art to truly inspire change, it must be more than simply thought-provoking, but must also reach further and provide wide-ranging benefits on multiple levels. To clear that high bar, Taylor has decidedly aimed low — beneath the waves to be specific.[more]

WOLFPACK CORNER

Premium Webinars

Watershape University is working to provide the best education available in the industry, offering long and short-form courses across in-person and on-line platforms. Part of that effort includes special paid one-hour webinars that yield treasure troves of detailed technical information, and spread-sheet calculations.[more]

ESSENTIAL

Floating on Sunshine

Set high on the bluffs overlooking Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, this composition in water, tile and vanishing-edge drama is his best work to date, asserts watershaper Juan Roca. When it first appeared on the magazine’s cover, it was still under construction. Now it is complete, he says, which leads him to share new images of his masterpiece in modern design and high-caliber watershaping.[more]

This article, originally published in WaterShapes in March 2006, has been digitized for all readers.Clickhereto seethe full text and enlarge the images to study the craftsmanship in detail.

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So You Don’t Have To…

World’s 18 Strangest Pools:Popular Mechanicsassembled an eclectic list of swimming pools that in one way or another qualify as “strange” – in the process showing off a spectrum of watershaping diversity.[more]

Weird and wonderful water from around the world.

The History of Concrete: Second only to steel as the world’s most widely used building material, the use of concrete embodies the history of built environments.[more]

It’s one of humankind’s greatest inventions.

FibroPool’s FH055 Heat Pump

FibroPool(Bay Saint Louis, Mo.) manufacturers the FH055 Heat Pump with a high-pressure differential compressor and a titanium heat exchanger with a 55,000 Btu output. The unit runs exclusively on a 12-gauge, 220-volt circuit, drawing the same power as a standard table saw. For details, click here. For details, clickhere.

Pentair Offers Backwash Controller

Pentair Pool Products(Sanford, N.C.) makes the CS400 Backwash Controller. This semi-automatic programmable controller can backwash up to six filters in sequence via its multi-port pressure-distribution valve. Features include user-configurable settings, alarms, calculated cycle time and valve control to ensure pump and heater protection. For details, clickhere.

Corporate Engagement Teammates

Watershape Universityappreciates the support of the following industry leaders. . .

2020/12.1, December 2 — Commercial Pool Peril, Hawai’ian Happiness, Social Pool Detail and more

December 2, 2020

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2020/11.2, November 18 — Balinese Bliss, Wastewater Solutions, Heater Installations and more

November 18, 2020

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DESIGN ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR PROFESSIONALS AND CONSUMERS

WHO MAKE WATER AND OUTDOOR LIVING PART OF THEIR LIVES

December 2, 2020 www.watershapes.com

FEATURE ARTICLE

Making the Public Leap

Itshouldbe an obvious point — designing and building commercial pools is an entirely different animal than working in the residential market. But according to Mark Holden and Shawn Tracy, many watershapers they encounter who are new to the commercial realm find themselves in deep water when they realize what they don’t know can be costly, or worse. [more]

BENEATH THE SURFACE

Detail: A420

While the term “swimming pool” is indelibly ingrained as the common descriptor of watershapes large enough for human immersion, Dave Peterson has coined a new term that better captures the essence of many such installations – and shares a cool design detail here that’s great for what he now calls “social pools.[more]

FEATURE ARTICLE

Luxury at Koloa Landing

The remote location is just one of the hurdles facing those who build pools for resorts on the Hawai’ian Islands. But as watershapers Loida Levinthol and Sean Newbold tell it, sensible practices and a strong reputation can make even the biggest projects run as smooth as volcanic glass. [more]]

Commercial Clout

While residential activity is booming these days, the exact opposite is true in the commercial pool market, where sales are slow and most facilities are closed. Dark days indeed, notes Eric Herman, but also a good time to consider the role “public water” plays in both the industry and society.[more]

DIRECT CONNECTIONS

Gratitude is the Attitude

In a show of gratitude for those who have committed their resources and efforts to educating the industry, Watershape University recently staged a webinar focused entirely on thanking contributing individuals and organizations –andoffering an exciting glimpse of the future. [more]

Solar Solutions

Since 1990, more than two billion people have gained access to better drinking water through widespread efforts of a spectrum of government agencies, charitable organizations and private-sector players. In many instances, it’s a combination of solar power and water treatment that’s giving hope where once there was only thirst.[more]

WOLFPACK CORNER

Advancing Fluid Engineering

Watershape University will join NESPA for an online presentation of WU’s Advanced Fluid Engineering program as part of 2021’s “Virtual Pool & Spa Show.” The emergence of this dynamic presentation is a true silver lining in a time of ongoing uncertainty – and opportunity.[more]

ESSENTIAL

Splashes of Color

Of all the projects he’s pursued in the past few years, says David Tisherman, he can’t easily think of another that rivals the achievement of this one with respect to balance, color, harmony or sheer beauty. The key words here, he adds, are color and energy, with one flowing irresistibly from the other in a reinvigorated backyard that was once drab, uninteresting and crowded with an old pool that just didn’t fit with its surroundings. [more]

This article, originally published in WaterShapes in October 2002, has been digitized for all readers.Clickhereto seethe full text and enlarge the images to study the craftsmanshp in detail.

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So You Don’t Have To…

Worldly Pools:From ruins in Pakistan to a modern Texas watershape, here’s a survey of great swimming holes.[more]

There’s even a cruise ship to round out an impressive list.

Water’s Rich History: If you’ve ever questioned the importance of water to human beings,this insightful survey tracks that “connection” from ancient days to modern times. [more]

As you’ll see in detail, the story is fascinating — and critically important.

Rhino Shrink Wrap Offers Fast Tent

Rhino Shrink Wrap (Holmes Chapel, U.K.)makes the Fast Tent System for cold-weather construction. The modular system uses self-supporting inflatable ‘air beams’, so no at-height is required, which allows for rapid deployment and easy relocation. It is made with double flame-retardant skin, also provides superb insulation. For details, clickhere.

Hayward Expands Automation Line

Hayward Industries (Elizabeth, N.J.)has expanded its OmniPL line of mid-range smart pool and spa automation. The system can control up to eight variable-speed pumps and includes four built-in relays. Select models are “salt ready” and the system offers a wide range of LED control features. For details, clickhere.

Corporate Engagement Teammates

Watershape Universityappreciates the support of the following industry leaders. . .

2020/11.1, November 4 — Fountain Synergy, Display Detail, Concrete Commentary and more

November 6, 2020

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DESIGN ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR PROFESSIONALS AND CONSUMERS

WHO MAKE WATER AND OUTDOOR LIVING PART OF THEIR LIVES

November 18, 2020 www.watershapes.com

FEATURE ARTICLE

Balinese Balance

Bali has been captivating visitors for centuries with its relaxed island culture and unique Asian-Tropical design tradition. His clients wanted to capture that spirit in their small backyard, and the fact that Scott Cohen had visited Bali himself brought out his own love of the place in an inspiring design.[more ]

BENEATH THE SURFACE

Detail: C203

Managing waste water in the form of run-off and especially filter-backwash effluent can be surprisingly problematic, observes Dave Peterson, especially when the issue is left to an afterthought. In this detail, he offers an elegant waste-water solution in the form of a simple backwash pit.[more]

FEATURE ARTICLE

Heater Help

The presence of unwanted cold water can lead to call-backs for builders and technicians who install heaters improperly. That’s not good, notes Mike Fowler, who writes that keeping customers warm and happy requires following these sizing, selection, installation and maintenance procedures.[more]

Buen Diseno

At their best, watershapes make artistic statements that compliment and amplify the surrounding environment while also reflecting the personalities of both the designer and the homeowner. As Eric Herman observes, it’s a connection that’s hard to define — but you know it when you see it.[more]

DIRECT CONNECTIONS

Exploring Chemistry Options

In one of Watershape University’s first Wolfpack Webinar Wednesday presentations, Jason Davila guided a deep dive into ozone, UV and AOP technologies. Since chlorine does not adequately kill some common pathogens, he suggests considering these three sanitizing approaches as a reliable arsenal of illness-preventing options.[more]

Grecian Milestones

Humans have been inventing ways to control water since the dawn of recorded history and almost certainly long before that. Several of the most noteworthy ancient hydraulic achievements emerged from Greece, where technologies such as the water wheel, positive-displacement pumps and the world’s oldest operating fountain were all devised.[more]

WOLFPACK CORNER

Behind the Curtain

Producing Watershape University’s online courses may seem simple and straightforward, but as Brett Herman reports, there are many moving pieces and technologies involved, all of which must be coordinated and smoothly implemented to make these presentations compellingandeffective.[more]

ESSENTIAL

Mastering the Greens

Creating watershapes and landscapes that are natural in appearance is always a challenge, says Ken Alperstein of Pinnacle Design, a firm that specializes in high-end projects related to top-flight golf courses. For this project in Shady Canyon, however, the ante was upped considerably by the site’s location in an environmentally sensitive coastal canyon in southern California – a design challenge intensified by regulatory scrutiny every step of the way.[more ]

This article, originally published in WaterShapes in December 2006, has been digitized for all readers.Clickhereto seethe full text and enlarge the images to study the craftsmanshp in detail.

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So You Don’t Have To…

Chlorine Science Basics: Chlorine’s history, fundamental science and diverse applications have far-reaching effects, but did you know how widespread these uses really are?[more ]

Take a look: It’s a handy chlorine-chemistry primer.

Inquiring Minds:The free-floating, single-celled algae known as diatoms are remarkably diverse and variously crucial to the balance of all natural bodies of water — and much more! [more ]

They may be tiny, but they’re also remarkably mighty.

Delta Fountains Offers Geyser Nozzles

Delta Fountains (Jacksonville, FL)manufacturers Geyser Nozzles designed to produce highly aerated water columns of water. The water-level dependent nozzles can be used in ponds, pools, basins, and sumps to reach heights from a small bubble on the water’s surface to 30-foot geysers. For details, click here. For details, clickhere.

Ramuc Produces Non-Slip Surface

RAMUC (Rockaway, NJ)makes Skid-Tex, a slip-resistant deck-paint additive for production of non-skid deck and pool surfaces. The product is designed for use with the manufacturer’s pool paint, which may be used to renovate aging pool surfaces, splash pads, steps, shallow lounging areas, beach entries and wading pools. For details, click here.For details, clickhere.

Corporate Engagement Teammates

Watershape Universityappreciates the support of the following industry leaders. . .

2020/10.2, October 21 — Long-Term Excellence, Bending Steel, Frustrating Lessons and more

October 27, 2020

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THE RESOURCE FOR WATERSHAPE DESIGNERS, ENGINEERS, AND BUILDERS

DESIGN ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR PROFESSIONALS AND CONSUMERS

WHO MAKE WATER AND OUTDOOR LIVING PART OF THEIR LIVES

November 4, 2020 www.watershapes.com

FEATURE ARTICLE

Circular Engagement

Adaptation, design flexibility, multi-functionality and an ability to vanish completely were all required in this masterful project engineered and designed by Daniel Netz. Here, he explains the ideas and processes that resulted in a waterfeature meant to be both iconic andcompletelyretiring.[more]

BENEATH THE SURFACE

Detail: A770

While many construction details are forever hidden from view, notes Dave Peterson, others stand front and center. This waterwall treatment, for instance, is a prime example of a simple design idea that shapes the fluid characteristics of the feature while also keeping it from splashing into the surrounding area.[more]

SPECIAL COMMENTARY

Failures of Trust

Engineers carry an almost sacred trust, with watershapers relying on them to design structures and systems that are reliable, science-based and code-compliant. When that trust is broken, says Dave Peterson and Bill Drakeley, the consumer’s investment is at risk — as is the watershaper’s reputation.[more]

Just a Guy in a Pool

Sharing time in a pool has a way of carrying everyone involved to a relaxed state of mind that lets the rigors of daily life temporarily slip away. It’s a sensation Eric Herman recently experienced with a group of friends, all of whom lead energetic, stressful lives.[more]

DIRECT CONNECTIONS

Fighting Dementia

As our population ages, concerns about preventing dementia are becoming more and more pronounced. Getting involved with water is one of the possibilities a group of researchers has identified as a way to push back the tide of this debilitating cluster of impairments and conditions.[more]

Building the Ultimate Wave

Australia has long been known as a surfing mecca, boasting some of the world’s most awesome breaks. Now, that reputation is moving inland, where the world’s largest (and arguably its most innovative) wave pool is redefining how to catch and ride the waves.[more]

WOLFPACK CORNER

Exploring History

At a time when in-person events are few and far between, WU recently presented a dynamic presentation about the history of water in architecture at historic sites near Pittsburgh, Pa., taking students on a fascinating journey through time and space.[more]

ESSENTIAL

Completely Contemporary

Taking great pride in developing watershape and landscape designs that combine an appreciation for the setting with an understanding of the clients’ tastes, Roger and Sheri Soares have prospered for years on the high end of the hotly competitive Phoenix marketplace. In this project, they took advantage of spectacular views, blended their work into a hillside and worked out all the harmonic links between the desert and the home’s modern style.[more]

This article, originally published in WaterShapes in June 2005, has been digitized for all readers.Clickhereto seethe full text and enlarge the images to study the craftsmanshp in detail.

We Browse

So You Don’t Have To…

Winterizing Ponds:As the weather turns cold, here’s a look at what you need to know about caring for fish and plants when snow falls and ice forms.[more]

The fulfilling challenge of caring for life beneath the ice.

Tokyo Aquatic Center Opens:Postponed until 2021, the Tokyo Summer Olympic Games will feature a state-of-the-art venue for swimming, diving and artistic swimming.[more]

It’s a gorgeous place to swim a few laps — or compete for the gold.

Pentair Refines Commercial Heater

Pentair Pool Products(Sanford, N.C.) has updated the MasterTemp commercial heater. The units now have bronze headers, allowing easier access to the thermal regulator and bypass valve. In addition, the header’s internal components are now plastic for light weight and corrosion-resistance.For details, clickhere.

Aquamatic Offers Solar Bench

Aquamatic Cover Systems(Gilroy, CA) has introduced the HydraLux Solar Moving Bench. The system, which requires no tracks, deploys the HydraLux cover by moving the full length of the pool — and will move off of the pool as needed. Designed primarily for commercial pools, the system is completely solar powered.For details, clickhere.

Corporate Engagement Teammates

Watershape Universityappreciates the support of the following industry leaders. . .

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DESIGN ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR PROFESSIONALS AND CONSUMERS

WHO MAKE WATER AND OUTDOOR LIVING PART OF THEIR LIVES

October 21, 2020 www.watershapes.com

FEATURE ARTICLE

Mastering the Long View

Great work often takes time. This project, for instance, was years in the making and had to overcome a whole string of hurdles that came courtesy of an unusually tricky site and the local building department. Using his experience and education, Kevin Cobabe found ways to step up and develop solutions for the project’s myriad challenges. [more]

BENEATH THE SURFACE

Detail: S034

Installing structural steel in a swimming pool means negotiating a variety of fittings, contours, corners and curves. This latest detail from Dave Peterson offers critical guidance when installing steel that bends, but doesn’t break.[more]

FEATURE ARTICLE

Lessons in Frustration

Upgrading a classic (but tired) kidney-shaped pool shouldnothave been a particularly tall order — or so homeowners Kris Anna Andersen and R Lee Steele thought. Little did they know the depth and complexity they’d face in trying to reclaim the pool’s simple beauty and update its equipment. [more]

The Consumer View

For clients and prospects, dealing with watershaping professionals should be a trouble-free experience. But sometimes it’s not, as Eric Herman notes here, suggesting that the industry needs to be more open to what consumers are saying, both positive and negative.[more]

DIRECT CONNECTIONS

A Checkerboard Beauty

Creating works of watershaping art requires both close attention to detail and control over the installation process, says Joan Roca. To show what he means, he profiled a spectacular project on a recent episode ofWolfpack Webinar Wednesday. [more]

Victory in Venice

In a dramatic example of human ingenuity, Venice, Italy, scored a major victory in its fight to survive rising waters that threatened its very existence. Nearly five decades in the making, the solution involved a system of barriers meant to prevent potentially devastating floods. [more ]

WOLFPACK CORNER

In Person and Beyond

The Wolfpack recently returned to in-person instruction with a successful program in September. But WU is also continuing its robust online presence, offering courses that cover technology, design, business and architectural history.[more]

ESSENTIAL

Making Frames

To Colorado pond/stream specialist Dave Garton, a certain ‘flexible responsiveness’ is the quality of utmost importance in all of his watershape designs. It’s an approach, he says, that calls for a keen understanding both of the setting and of what makes his clients tick – a dual awareness he puts on eloquent display here in discussing how he maximizes the personal appeal of his designs even as he works across a broad range of project types and styles.

This article, originally published in WaterShapes in May 2009, has been digitized for all readers.Clickhereto seethe full text and enlarge the images to study the craftsmanshp in detail.

We Browse

So You Don’t Have To…

Swimming supports mental health:Anxiety, depression and a host of issues are positively impacted for people of all ages and conditions, just by taking a dip. [more]

Turns out it’s as good for your mind as it is for your body.

Water’s earthly origin still a mystery: The means by which our oceans first came to be is one of the earth’s biggest secrets — one that continues to baffle scientists and spark debate. [more]

Inquiring minds want to know: How on earth did our planet get so darned wet?

Thursday Pools Introduces the Backfill Eliminator

Thursday Pools(Fortville, IN) has developed a new pool-shell system designed to eliminate the challenge of backfilling under shallow lounging areas. The Backfill Eliminator is integrated into the pool’s structure, eliminating the need for backfilling while allowing groundwater to flow freely and preventing it from accumulating beneath the pool. For details, clickhere.

Finnleo Features the Summit Sauna

Finnleo(Wyborg, Finland) makes the Summit Sauna, an outdoor sauna designed to withstand the elements. Made with a heat-treated Canadian Hemlock interior and exterior components, it features an all-weather metal roof and a foundation of cedar runners. The units are prebuilt with prefitted wall and ceiling panels and durable vinyl flooring. For details, clickhere.