Your pool is the highlight of your Oyster Bay, NY, backyard. Make it a stunning focal point with the help of custom masonry elements that elevate the design and functionality of your poolscape. Consider these innovative masonry ideas to make your pool stand out from the rest:
Custom Coping
Custom coping can dramatically change the look of your pool. It also serves important purposes, such as preventing water from getting behind the pool wall and directing overflow water away from the pool edge. Most coping has a porous surface that is slip resistant for the safety of those walking around the pool.
Bullnose coping has smooth, rounded edges that won’t scrape or scratch people using the pool. Because of its smooth finish, bullnose is the most popular coping for swimming pool designs. Natural stone coping, such as bluestone, has a rough edge which provides a more natural feel. For a modern landscape, marble coping offers a smooth, sleek look.
Related: CHOOSING THE RIGHT SWIMMING POOL DESIGN FOR YOUR HOME
Decorative Accents
Decorative masonry accents can help to make your pool stand out from the rest. By combining different types of pavers and stones, The Platinum Group can create beautiful borders, patterns and accents that elevate the look of your pool and patio.
A colored border used in patio flooring can help define outdoor rooms and create a consistent look across a large landscape. Decorative tiles set into stair treads look striking and will help make underwater steps more visible. Likewise, utilizing different colors or shades of tile will help define a sun shelf or other underwater change in grade.
Varying Heights
Elements of different heights add texture and interest to a landscape. Fire features and outdoor kitchens will add vertical presence to your landscape, but there are many ways to create varying heights in your poolscape too. Raised masonry features can also help provide privacy and shelter from the wind.
A raised spa, for example, allows for an overflow waterfall into the pool and adds dimension on one side of the pool. Elevated platforms will provide a spot for seating that overlooks the pool. Sunken seating areas create cozy outdoor rooms with added shelter from the wind.
Built-in Seating
In-water sun chairs provide the ultimate location for pool lounging. Using masonry that coordinates with your pool, permanent lounge chairs can be installed in a shallow area of the pool. For added relaxation, consider having spa jets installed right in the chairs. Adding in-water side tables will provide a convenient spot for drinks and snacks.
Add another dimension to your outdoor entertaining with outdoor rooms in the water. An alcove with built-in benches and cocktail tables means guests can gather for food and drinks right in the pool. A swim-up bar will make your backyard feel like a resort. A two-sided bar with bar stools in the pool will allow guests to enjoy a beverage without leaving the water.
Related: CREATING A YEAR ROUND SAFE SWIMMING POOL AREA FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY
Poolside Fireplace
Extend the amount of time you can enjoy your pool with a poolside fire feature. Cool nights or fall days will be made even better with a beautiful masonry fireplace or fire pit to warm guests up after a swim.
A natural stone fireplace open to both the water and poolside seating will keep swimmers and spectators warm at the same time. For a contemporary landscape, a modern rectangular fire pit provides open heat and a sleek look. In-pool fire pits add a dramatic focal point that will make your pool really stand out.
Image courtesy of Unilock.