Foam jets

Foam jets are a great addition to shallow spaces of pools and water features, such as lounging areas and supervised children’s play stations. Flush with the pool floor when not in use, these jets use a venturi (a short piece of narrow tube between wider sections) to inject air into an upward plume of water, creating a soft foam visual display. Lighting foam jets from below at night provides an incredible show.

Rills and runnels

Rills and runnels, which are not often found in backyard designs, are simple yet elegant channels of water, which can carry treated pool water from inside the home to the pool, or serve as standalone design features.

Swimming and socializing

We are social creatures. As such, people tend to lounge around in pools more than they actually swim. For this reason, the ultimate backyard pool invariably includes a variety of places for swimmers to linger.

Amphitheatre seating

Amphitheatre seating is constructed by using a series of benches surrounding a central social area, such as a spa or chill pool. This provides another comfortable area for bathers to relax in between laps.

Swim-up bars

Swim-up bars, often combined with an overhead cabana or shade structure, are a great place to socialize and stay out of the sun. Bar seats can be built to varying heights or designed to be adjustable. Consider adding fully tiled loungers, complete with jets and beverage holders, to create the ultimate bar. Umbrella holders can also be placed strategically in and around the pool to allow for some cool relaxation areas.

Barry Justus is the owner of Poolscape Inc., a landscape contractor and pool designing and building company based in Burlington, Ont. He can be reached at barry@poolscape.com or by visiting www.poolscape.com.