Back in the 80s and 90s most swimming pools looked alike: they were either kidney-shaped, had a rectangular design, and most had that iconic, porous slip-proof concrete surround. Most tiles were aqua blue or navy, and the pool’s surface was typically blue or white.Today, however, homeowners are jumping at the chance to utilize advancements in technology that lend to creating unique swimming pools that are anything but cookie-cutter. Before you call a custom pool builder to design the perfect staycation in your backyard, you would be wise to consider these tips when investing in a custom pool.

Outdoor kitchens became popular when the indoor-outdoor living trend exploded as a movement within the home decor and remodeling industries, and they were further popularized by networks like HGTV where dramatic unveilings revealed stylish living spaces. There is a huge demand for homeowners to emulate living spaces on patios, decks, in backyards, or to install accordion style wall-to-wall glass doors to bring the outdoors in. While there are several methods for creating outdoor living spaces, savvy homeowners know to contact a custom outdoor kitchen builder as a more affordable option, and the choice that will lead to a better investment and lifestyle upgrade. Here are four things to consider when building the outdoor kitchen of your dreams.

Have you been thinking that its time to invest in a pool? Perhaps the kids have been asking for one, or maybe you are just toying with the idea. Regardless of where you sit in making an investment decision, you might be interested to know that there are a plethora of good reasons to pull the trigger and call a custom pool builder in your area. This article will explore four ways swimming pools add value to families, and why you should get off the fence and embrace something that will continue to pay you back for life.

If you’re thinking about installing a new outdoor fireplace, you might have questions about its safety. For example, could the fire escape and spread to nearby trees or structures? Although some risks do exist, outdoor fireplaces are actually safer than the alternatives.

The process of designing your pool is one that is super fun and exciting. However, it is also one where a lot of decisions must be made. This is essentially the final step before the actual building of the pool, so you want to make sure that you have a vision in your head of what you want, so that your designer can make it a reality for you. Here are two important questions to ask yourself when designing your custom pool.

The thick smell of chlorine is a part of every childhood swimming pool memory, but that doesn’t mean your swimming pool now has to carry the same scent. Today, there are multiple alternatives that can supplement the chemical so your using less chlorine or replace it altogether. If you’re allergic to chlorine or you don’t like how it smells and dries out your hair, no worries. Try these treatments instead:

Whether you live in Waco or Central, Texas, most of the year is hot. Even when the temperature dips below triple digits, it can be hard to stay out in the sunlight without heading indoors early. If you love spending time outdoors but your backyard isn’t giving a break, make sure your remodel includes more shade from every angle. Here are five ideas to make it happen:

Unlike residential pools, commercial pools are used more frequently, possibly daily, and attract higher traffic. Subsequently, commercial pools suffer from wear and tear quicker than residential pools do. And even though pool maintenance guidelines recommend for commercial pools to be replastered every 10 years, depending on the frequency of use of your pool, it may be due for a re-plaster much sooner.

Many people have seen decorative concrete and may have not even realized it. That is because concrete is so diverse. It has several possibilities to be used while still serving its function as an integral part of the building itself such as floors, walls, driveways, patios, and pool decks and more. Using decorative concrete is an easy and wonderful way to give color and texture to your backyard.

An outdoor kitchen remains quite popular this year. There are a tremendous variety of features available. You could easily spend hours pondering the options, but what amenities do you really need?

So, what do the words ‘swimming pool’ bring to mind for you? You probably answered, relaxing therapy, entertaining, exercise and a whole lot of summertime fun. From family gatherings, outdoor picnics, parties and events, the list of activities you can enjoy goes on and on. Though a swimming pool can certainly help set the stage for your own backyard oasis where you can relax with family, take in the sun, and enjoy a daytime or nighttime swim, it can also enhance your lifestyle and improve your overall health.

If you’re looking for a way to improve your outdoor space, an excellent option is to install a gorgeous outdoor fireplace. Several fabulous reasons exist that make such an investment worthwhile.

Most homeowners take pride in the exterior appearance of their property. However, the outside of a house will always start to look a bit drab over time. A fabulous way to quickly update the look of your property is to use decorative concrete.

A swimming pool is certainly a major investment and one well worth its benefits. Every pool owner knows just how important it is to properly care for and maintain a pool and its equipment. Owning a pool can prove to be a bit costly, though the therapy, relaxation, and entertainment it provides you is every bit worth the cost. However, taking appropriate steps to maintain your pool with routine pool maintenance can surely help to avoid unnecessary repair or replacement costs to either your pool itself, or its equipment.

Having a new pool installed on your property is exciting, but it’s not without its pitfalls! There are a number of things you and your family can do to make waiting out your new pool construction more fun and less of a stress.

The division between your outdoor living space and your beautiful new swimming pool doesn’t have to be clearcut. Instead, you can blur the lines for a unique space that lets you experience the best of both spaces. Consider these four design choices:

Adding an outdoor fireplace your outdoor living space makes it comfortable and more fun to relax outside during the winter. Not only do fireplaces let you start cozy fires, but they’re also great architectural elements to make your outdoor living space’s design beautiful.

Designing your dream pool can be almost as much fun as relaxing in your dream pool. If you’ve been browsing through Pinterest or your favorite backyard picture galleries, you may have noticed that more and more pools have landscaping features. Just like there’s a water feature and a pool design for everyone, there a reason for landscaping that fits every mindset.

It’s common knowledge that swimming is good for your health. Swimming is good for the heart, and the exercise increases endorphins that provide a sense of well-being. Exercise isn’t the only way a pool can improve well-being, however. Evidence suggests that just looking at water can create a feeling of calm. Fish tanks in doctors offices help patients with dementia feel more at ease. When people go on relaxing vacations, they typically go where there’s water. A trip to the beach or lake provides a sense of calm for many, even without participating in swimming or other water activities. So what is it about water that calms us? Designing a Pool for Mental Well-being

Swimming pools are always unique to the families that own them. Whether you’re looking for a combination of a pool and patio that is perfect for large get-togethers or you want a tranquil swimming pool with a beautiful pathway between your pool and your home, Varsity Pools is focused on creating a customized, stunning but unique backyard environment. This includes our concrete patios and fixtures with decorated concrete.