Although public pools are accessible and helpful for occupying a busload of
children, having a personal backyard water feature is an ideal way to beat the
heat. If you are ready to transform your yard into a tropical oasis, a swimming
pool or other water feature will provide you, your family, and your friends
with countless hours of memorable enjoyment.
Aboveground pools are simple to set up, inexpensive to purchase, and serve the
basic function. Although these appear to be less permanent structures, an
elevated deck can make it more accessible and create the illusion of an
inground pool. Along the same uncomplicated lines, a blow-up pool accented by
an artificial palm tree and a pool float can create a tropical escape on the
otherwise simplest lawns.
If you are in the mood to dream or in the market to create a luxury retreat for
your summer
“staycation,” there are plenty of elaborate pools to dazzle you and your vacation visitors.
A naturalistic pool can transform a yard into a lake, jungle, or island by
playing up the landscape or imitating natural formations. These pools can blend
with the surroundings or stand out as a whimsical lagoon where mermaids could
be lounging. Naturalistic pools are established with a freeform shape, which
could be meant to mimic a specific body of water or simply to allow for a more
fluid space. Materials such as stone or simulated rock are used to create
caves, grottos, waterfalls, tanning spots, or diving ledges.
For a more modern retreat from the heat, consider an Infinity pool. Otherwise
known as a negative-edge, disappearing-edge, zero-edge, or vanishing-edge pool,
an Infinity pool produces a visual effect and enticing illusion of water
extending to the horizon. To create this mystical look, the water cascades down
a hidden side into a catch basin that filters it back into the swimming pool.
Alternatively, you can create a waterfall effect by facing the
“vanishing” edge toward your home.
An Infinity pool is a posh way to entertain your guests, but if you need a party
pool, consider some exciting additions. Swim-up bars fulfill the fantasies of
the young in mind and body alike. Why pause a fun-filled day of Marco Polo and
handstands in the shallow end for a snack? Although it
’s still not advisable to swim on a full stomach, kids can belly up to the
swim-up bar to hydrate or nosh on chips or veggie sticks; adults can do the
same and soak in a relaxing afternoon or evening with a more exotic drink.
Refreshing beverages are instantly more exciting when topped with an umbrella,
fruit wedge, or neon-colored straw.
Similarly, a waterslide can turn a simple pool into an aquatic playground. Like
swimming pools, waterslides can be permanent or changeable fixtures, as there
are inflatable versions for inground pools. These are great alternatives
because for a fraction of the regular cost you provide the entertainment of a
water park and avoid the neighborhood liability of a diving board.
If you choose to install a swimming pool for your summertime enjoyment, keep in
mind that they all require some level of maintenance and forethought about
which type of filter and water system is most appropriate for your needs. The
classic chlorine system is still an industry standard but is not always the
best option for those with sensitive skin. Saltwater pools release lower levels
of chlorine and create a more authentic ocean-side retreat, while bromine is
best for swimmers with skin allergies.
Because pools are an investment of time and money, sometimes it is easier to opt
for movable family-friendly water features. We can all relate to the simplicity
and enjoyment of dashing through sprinklers and sliding down a blue tarp, but
now water toys are wondrously fantastic. Slip
‘n Slides, self-contained waterslides, and sprinklers are now made in the images
of sharks, exotic island locations, surfboards, and pirate ships for all ages.
Toys“R”Us carries myriad extraordinary summer indulgences, so you simply get to decide
whether you want your child sliding down a racetrack or into the mouth of a
faux great white shark.
Whether slipping and sliding, sipping a tasty smoothie next to an aboveground
structure, or escaping to the Amazon jungle in a naturalistic pool, they all
beat the heat. Take advantage of these months and enjoy some time in your own
backyard
—floating in a pool of summer freedom.
Written by Maresa Giovannini.
