37 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Pool design experts are reporting a trend in classic interior colors such as black, gray and white, accented with bold statement options like largeformat porcelain tiles. For a streamlined and contemporary look, geometric pool shapes are popular for their crisp angles and shimmering surfaces. Also, with an invisible edge that gives the impression of the water merging into the surrounding terrain, infinity pools are one of the most luxurious and timeless options on the market. According to Clint Fore, owner of Aqua Blue Pools, shallow platforms, also known as sun ledges, tanning shelves or Baja steps, are still in vogue as a must-have feature for many homeowners. They provide the perfect spot to relax, soak in the vitamin D and stay cool without fully submerging. With the continued growing demand for in-pool relaxation, sun ledges offer a natural extension of decking that blurs the lines between sunbathing and swimming. The feature can also be enhanced for an athome resort experience by adding lounge chairs directly onto the sun ledge, creating an ideal space for enjoying a cocktail, reading or simply cooling off. Also on trend, Fore said, are plunge pools. “The water offers a delightful way of waking yourself up after a long day or giving yourself a kickstart ahead of a busy schedule. And these pools can be beautifully complemented by fountains or waterfalls, creating an oasis perfect for either lounging around or a quick dip. Elegant and relaxing, the sound of the water complements the beautiful aesthetics of the feature itself.” Fore added that UV and ozone sanitizing systems are gaining traction as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional chlorine. By using ultraviolet light and ozone to neutralize bacteria and contaminants, these alternatives to chlorine sanitizing reduce chemical use to provide a cleaner and healthier swimming experience. “Pool experts at Aqua Blue are also monitoring how AI may revolutionize pool management systems in the years to come,” explained Fore. “Artificial intelligence may include tasks from water chemistry and filtration to energy efficiency and maintenance schedules, ensuring optimal performance with minimal effort from homeowners.” PERFECT YOUR POOL’S PERIMETER The layout of the landscaping around the pool is of equal importance to the pool design itself, according to Adam Dukes, owner of GrandScapes. He said that by using an exclusive formula, GrandScapes achieves visually appealing results and delivers solutions that evolve to meet market trends, ensuring the preservation of the natural look and feel of vegetation and greenery. Part of that equation could include hardscapes, which are man-made features used in landscape architecture that contrast with the surrounding natural vegetation. “When done correctly, hardscaping will offer an attractive long-term addition to a backyard, giving homeowners the option of creating unique custom spaces suited to any lifestyle,” Dukes said. Besides aesthetics, functionality is a big part of the equation. Sleek modern handrails are an intentional design choice that can make pool use easier for more “seasoned” swimmers without taking away from a beautiful setting. How to Make a Splash at Home Picturesque Pools & Landscapes To learn how to plan a pool project by blending luxury, functionality and sustainability into one refreshing package, visit aquabluepools.net and grandscapes.com. BY SARAH ROSE our town Editor’s note: This article is a reprint of a story that previously appeared in Mount Pleasant Magazine.
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