Houston Chronicle Sunday

Dip into coolest design trends for pool remodel

- By John Leggett

Pool season is in full swing, and in Houston, comfortabl­e pool weather lasts well into the fall and sometimes even the winter. For those seeking to undertake a backyard remodel project — whether adding a pool to complete your relaxing outdoor entertaini­ng space, or upgrading your current pool to include the latest features — here are four of the hottest trends in pool design.

Artificial grass vs. concrete or tile

Concrete and tile are popular materials used in pool-deck design, but unfortunat­ely, these materials can become extremely hot to the touch, making walking around barefoot uncomforta­ble. To combat this, consider installing artificial grass around your pool instead. Artificial grass does not absorb as much heat as concrete or tile surfaces, making it much more comfortabl­e to touch with bare feet. Additional­ly, artificial grass reduces the risk of slipping and falling on more slippery surfaces. The texture of artificial grass creates a slip-resistant surface while also eliminatin­g the chance of water puddles accumulati­ng on the surface surroundin­g the pool. Turf not only has incredible drainage capabiliti­es, but it also adds a pristine aesthetic to your backyard space. There is a wide selection of turf options including multiple colors, textures and heights so you can customize it to your liking.

Cooling water systems

In Houston, heating pool water is almost unnecessar­y because of the short winter season. However, cooling water systems have become extremely popular in homes located in the South. During the scorching summer months, pool water can feel as warm as bath water, but with a pool chiller, you can lower the water temperatur­e, making the pool more comfortabl­e to swim or lounge. With a variety of pool-chilling systems available, your remodeler can install the equipment easily.

During a remodel, consider adding aesthetica­lly pleasing design features to the pool. Many homeowners enjoy adding luxurious, resort-style elements to enhance that area of the backyard. Some of these elements include cascading waterfalls from a spa or hot tub into the pool, tanning ledges at the water’s entrance and fire features to add to the ambience. It’s common to find elements like these in resorts or spas, so why not incorporat­e eye-catching features to transform your abode into a staycation escape?

Today you can easily control just about every system in your house, and that includes the pool. Work with your remodeler to install automation systems to control the pool settings, such as lighting, water features, spa jets, heating or cooling options, chemical levels, and more. Most pool and spa control systems will link directly to a smartphone, giving you ease of control.

There are endless options to upgrade or remodel your pool space, and thanks to the Texas heat, there are also endless opportunit­ies for you to enjoy swimming, or simply relaxing poolside.

 ?? Photo courtesy of On Point Custom Homes ?? This outdoor oasis features a pool with a fireplace.
Photo courtesy of On Point Custom Homes This outdoor oasis features a pool with a fireplace.

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