Local pool builders say business is slower (because of economic woes) but steady, but that doesn't mean homeowners who choose to install pools are cutting back on the extras. More elaborate pools with features that include islands and furniture in the pool, swim-up bars and diving rocks instead of diving boards continue to have appeal - as do new materials that help pools stay cleaner and function better.
There are solar heat and high-efficiency heat pumps to keep water warm, and variable speed pumps that use less energy to keep water flowing, said WaterShapes editor Herman.
Eye-friendly saline pools cut down on the use of chlorine by making the water about 10 percent as salty as the ocean. Ozone systems filter water and further reduce chlorine needs. The combination is the "perfect water treatment," said Brian Van Bower, president of Aquatic Consultants Inc. in Miami, who designs pools throughout the world.
Still, it's the appearance of a pool that often makes it most appealing.
In recent months, Jason Bellman, vice president of Brackens, a pool builder in Pasadena, has put fiber-optic starlike lights in the bottom of deep ends and rope-look lighting around the inner top perimeter of pools.
But not all water's in the pool: Bellman has added jets that spew fountains of water out of the deck.
trends making a splash
Here's what's big in luxury pools, says Brian Van Bower, president of Aquatic Consultants Inc. in Miami, who designs pools throughout the world:
Lounging ledge A top step about 8 inches deep where people lounge with or without furniture. It can include a built-in umbrella and tiki-light mounts.
Glass tile Interior pool finishes, with small tiles, especially iridescent ones. "The water dances around in the pool," he said.
Vanishing edges Edges, including spills on all sides, elevated perimeter overflows and multiple levels of overflow. This includes pools that are cantilevered.
Shallower pools The deepest part might be 5 1/2 feet in the center.
Beach entry A gentle slope into the pool in lieu of steps, and bench edge, where the side of the pool is about 18 inches above ground.
Fire pits Pits recessed in the deck, or in bowls or torches at the water's edge, reflect in the pool.
There are nearly 5 million in-ground pools and more than 5.6 million hot tubs in the United States.
Source: The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
