Design - Build

LEDs now account for more than half of the lighting market, and it’s easy to see why: They’re long lasting, energy-efficient and, most important for pool builders, they offer a rainbow of color possibilities. We explain more about the trend.

Customers love fire elements — in fact, many builders say it’s the most common requires in their new pool designs. Here, we explore the trend in depth and learn why it won’t burn out anytime soon.

Bradley Renken explains his design philosophy, which places a heavy emphasis on the “why” behind each element of a project.

For today's consumers, the ability to automate water chemistry, pumps, features, etc., is an expectation.

Want to increase profits? Start adding drop-in spas to your projects.

The hot tub industry as we know it started out with the wooden tub — and now, decades later, wooden spas remain a vibrant niche within the hot water industry.

Installing underwater speakers? Builder Paolo Benedetti offers expert advice to keep in mind.

Why do some landscapes create a deeply emotional response, and others don’t? A landscape designer shares his perspective, as well as advice for your future design work.

A second-generation pool pro finds thinking beyond the water's edge is rewarding both creatively and financially.

Title 20​ has been the law in California for nine years​, ​but ​some ​still ​ignore the law ​on pump replacements.

​An engineer ​of epic waterparks share​s​ ​his perspective.

A builder uses both hand renderings and 3-D printed models to help design and sell pools.

Being well-educated, positive and trustworthy are just a few ways you can get more contracts signed.

A custom builder shares his journey into poolside AV systems.

A new standard is designed to help conserve water and protect the industry from overregulation.

Thanks to thriving consumer demand, fiberglass sales have doubled since 2006. Here, pros explain why the product is growing in popularity.

Outdoor living expert Scott Cohen shares his strategy for designing outdoor kitchens: Focus on what's on the menu.

Why should pool builders have to “Frankenstein” a control system from other products to meet their client’s needs? It’s time for control manufacturers to catch up to the needs of today’s market.

Practical advice for top-notch package pool installations.

Builders serve on the front line for the pool and spa industry; if things are going well in their market, the rest of the industry follows suit. Luckily, this year’s survey results found a record high level of optimism in the builder market.

From fuel types to aesthetics and placement, we discuss the breadth of design possibilities fire pits provide.

Builder Chris Anderson explains how he navigates the first phone call and in-person meeting with a potential client.

Just top Did you see the viral video of the glass-bottom pool in Texas? We talk to the firm behind the project and discuss the popularity of transparent pools.

On the 10th anniversary of VGB, APSP President and CEO Rich Gottwald speaks on Capitol Hill about the law’s great impact on water safety.

There's more to spas than gunite and portable — these builders and manufacturers are proof.

Modular slides offer pre-fabricated convenience as well as the customization required to create a sophisticated design that melts into the landscape.

These small, yet versatile pools provide an ideal solution for homeowners with limited space.

An Awards of Excellence-winning hot tub installation defies gravity

A look at how digital design technology has evolved and changed the pool and spa industry

How do industry professionals build legitimacy and credibility with clients? The answer is both simple and complex.