pool design

The Misguided Push to Eliminate Natural Gas from California’s Backyards
Legislative moves to prohibit natural gas from backyards in California is badly misguided, argues Scott Cohen. While reducing carbon emissions is a valid objective, he says, trying to do so by eliminating natural gas-driven amenities does little to help the environment while stabbing at the heart of the state’s renown outdoor lifestyle. ...
Mosaics of Experience
What started out as an Italy trip devoted to the pursuit of fine food and wine, Lea and George Frederick, wound up deeply imbibing in the world of mosaic art at a remarkable facility in Vincenza. Here they share a slice of travelogue and images that point to the remarkable possibilities of artistically arranged bits of glass tile.   ...
Structure Studios Software Update
Structure Studios has updated its 3D-design software with new tools and assets aimed at  transforming the experience of designing outdoor living spaces for clients. Upgrades include an intuitive faster real-time 3D gizmo, new Smart Snaps, a reimagined Camera, expanded design tools, and 1400 new assets overall. The update is available now for Vip3D, Pool Studio, and VizTerra. ...
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. ...
Outgrowing the ‘Pool Guy’
The labels watershapers use to describe who they are and what they do for a living matter in more ways than one, argues Kevin Woodhurst. Because professional terminology reflects an underlying value system and industry culture, there’s one term in particular that he believes should be permanently retired. ...
Spatial Emotions
Designing spaces for human use -- especially those of the recreational variety -- starts by understanding that the primary goal is to generate a positive emotional response, regardless of style, the size of the property or the client’s budget. That’s why Mike Farley considers the ways that different spatial configurations make his clients feel. ...
Accurate Estimating Support
Failure to accurately estimate and price projects is a common and costly misstep. Because reliable…
RicoRock Introduces Improved Grotto
RicoRock (Orlando, FL) has introduced a new system for installing grottos and small caves on…
2020/7.2, July 22 — Change-Ready Clients, Celebrity Pondcraft, Solar Pursuits and more
THE ESSENTIAL E-NEWSLETTER FOR WATERSHAPE DESIGNERS, ENGINEERS AND BUILDERS July 22, 2020 www.watershapes.com FEATURE ARTICLE…
Riding the Lazy River
Animating water in the form of a lazy river inspires many prospective pool owners, explains Mike Farley. But the cost and level of difficulty quickly narrow the opportunities, both for clients concerned with affordability and builders who need an important set of design and technical skills.