Paragon Pools, pool and spa builder

Well, here is the last of the Grand Wailea Hawaii AquaTekture blogs!  I finish with something that is incredibly innovative-for kids and the young-at-heart (or adults after one too many Pina Coladas), theFishpipe Hawaii is a water themed experience like no other.

Invented in Australia in 2009, the clear orb that looks like a giant hamster ball, rotates while water shoots from hundreds of spouts.  Fishpipe Hawaii is one of 12 worldwide where riders can tumble, flip, run, surf and slide while 15 gallons of clean, filtered water sprays them.   

My 10 year old granddaughter Sophia tried it and just loved it, riding it 4 times.  So I thought what the heck- let’s see what all the fun is about.  Climbing into the orb I wasn’t certain what to expect.  At first there is a bit of disorientation with the circular rotation and water rushing at you, but I quickly became used to the activity and found myself enjoying it.  You can watch Dave’s ride in the video!  Aloha!

  As mentioned previously, the Grand Wailea , has many AquaTekture elements, most impressive is the details the designers incorporated to ensure an authentic setting when creating nature waterfalls and ponds.  When considering a rock waterfall or pond I always recommend using natural rock and boulders.

  

The Grand Wailea property opened in 1991, and while it has changed management over the years the setting has stayed true to its original concept- a homage to the islands, its nature and culture.

This is achieved with AquaTekture, foliage, fish and art.   From a restaurant floating above a salt-water lagoon filled with sea creatures, waterfalls, streams, koi ponds, gardens and sculptures, to pools with intricate tile mosaics and a chapel surrounded by a pond, the property is a celebration of the Hawaiian lifestyle.  (http://www.grandwailea.com)

Another great example of fabulous of AquaTekture is the formal fountain at the Grand Wailea  in Maui. The fountain features an all-tile interior with mosaics, deck jets, and a fountain bubbler surrounded by dancing dolphin sculptures. The fountain cascades down to the formal adult pool.

Dining in the open air Grand Dining Room or relaxing in the Spa veranda lounge gives one a spectacular view of the fountain.

Does the fountain look familiar? The resort was the striking backdrop of the 2011 romantic comedy “Just Go With It” starring Jennifer Aniston, Adam Sandler and Nicole Kidman.

Hawaii AquaTekture #2

The large open air lobby is just one of the impressive design elements of the Grand Wailea in Maui, with native tropical fauna, art sculptures, water features and a sunken bar.  Guests are greeted with a series of blue tiled, water channels that lead to a large reflection pond where a bronze mermaid statue lures them to toss coins into her shell bowl. 

The sculpture is by acclaimed artist Jan Fisher.

This courtyard water fountain may be a beautiful ice sculpture now, but in reality it could turn into a big problem for the owner. Leaving fountains and water features running during freeze conditions will cause cracks and flooding when the weather warms up and ice thaws.

Avoid this scenario by leaving fountains off and wrapping the pipes and valves with insulated tape. When possible remove pump lids and plugs to drain water out of the pumps. Depending on the set-up, it may be advantageous to contact a professional for further advice.

As the ADA deadline approaches (January 31, 2013), public pool owners are scrambling to bring their properties into compliance.  However, what we are finding is that many properties require a more in-depth plan than just adding a chair lift. We have had to improvise and become very creative in finding ways for our clients to meet the new requirements.

What I have found in inspecting existing projects,especially with the smaller facilities is that the pool and spa areas are rather limited in space to readily be able to just drop a chair lift in place. It’s not just a matter of adding a chair lift for access into the body of water; the ADA compliance law also requires adequate wheel chair access to reach the lift.

Poolside chair lifts require approximately a seven foot radius of operating space, in many cases that space is not available without violating other health department or building codes.  Other obstacles we have run across is avoiding blocking exit doors, fire extinguishers, and other structural confines where the chair lift cannot function properly.

In other instances, the spa is located on a different level than the pool with only stair access. The spa will not only require a lift but will also require modifications to construct a ramp to make the spa and chair lift accessible to individuals with disabilities. Achieving the space necessary for a ramp is not always available- ADA ramp slope requirements are 1 foot (in height) to 12 feet (in length);therefore other resolutions must be found.

An alternative to a chair lift would be to construct a ramp inside the pool. Following the specific guidelines outlined by the ADA, thisoption is not always viable due to space limitations especially with existing projects.

The ADA pool and spa compliance act not only affects the numerous resort pools up and down the tourism corridor of the Las Vegas strip, the mandate also relates to the all public pools throughout the city and across the nation.

Those who can’t meet the deadline because of circumstances that require major or extreme modifications must provide a detailed plan and timetable for executing the ADA compliance strategy.

ADA compliance is not a simple issue, and non-compliance could open an entity to a law suit.  I recommend for facility owners to contact an APSP pool professional to assist in determining if the facility requires ADA compliance and to provide a barrier removal analysis.  For additional information contact me at Joseph M. Vassallo, CBP, President of Paragon Pools at 702.400.0679 or go to ADA.gov.

If you travel to the Hawaiian Islands you will experience some extraordinary views. I recently visited Maui, a business related trip with ZODIAC pool products. ZODIAC booked one of the world’s most beautiful properties for the setting, the Grand Wailea (http://www.grandwailea.com) . The grounds are breathtaking spanning 40 acres on the southwest shoreline of the island. From the entry porte-cochere to the ocean- a series of waterways including; koi ponds, fountains, pools, and spas are intricately woven around the property creating intimate settings in every corner. Tropical foliage and large art pieces further enhance the ambiance.

As in all my travels, I take note of the AquaTekture: that is the blend of water and architecture. I only had to turn my head to be seduced by many beautiful waterfalls and waterscapes. As a pool builder, this was a feast for my eyes and an inspiration for my work.

I have captured several videos and images to share with you in a series of blogs. Enjoy!

http://youtu.be/cR-jwJIaTU0

The recent natural tragedy on the east coast has left commercial properties and homeowners in a terrible situation. The process of putting lives and homes back together has only started, and while the focus may be on putting a roof over their head, those with a pool or spa have added complications and concerns.

I feel it is important to share some vital information with my audience. Even though you may not be directly affected, you may have family and friends who suffered the wrath of Hurricane Sandy.

Obvious destruction would be the physical damage such as caved-in walls, or cracked shells, however there are some things one should also consider when assessing the damage. For instance equipment and electrical components that have been contaminated by sea water and/or sand washed up from the beach will need to be completely replaced with new components, this includes: filters, pumps, heaters, and lights as well as other components.

Don’t allow a tragedy caused by nature miss-guide your judgment by seeking a quick-cheap solution that could result in further problems later. Before you take any action consult a licensed CBP (Certified Building Professional) or CSP (Certified Service Professional). A list of qualified pool professionals can be found through the APSP (Association of Pool and Spa Professionals) www.apsp.org . Or feel free to contact me directly and I will be happy to assist in locating a professional in your area.

Photos courtesy of Robert Blanda, CBP, CSP President Mill Bergen Pools, Brooklyn, New York www.millbergenpools.com

In my latest article for WAVES magazine- India's pool, spa and bath publication, I discuss how to take a design to the next level.

The terms basic, generic, and ordinary are not part of my vernacular when designing a pool or spa. My philosophy is to create an environment the homeowner can’t live without, thus I look to the extras, the finishing touches, and the accessories to create an extraordinary signature design. 

A qualified design team will collaborate with the homeowner to conceive a plan to complement their personal tastes and lifestyle resulting in a seamless flow from the interior and exterior environments.

There are an infinite number of options for a unique, one-of-a-kind space, but the key is selecting the appropriate mix and balance into a single dramatic entity rather than a collage of individual pieces.  

On this particular project, Paragon Pools teamed up with a well-respected luxury real estate broker and interior designer, Tanni Luke.  The goal was to create a venue for a high-profile homeowner to entertain their family and friends as well as a show piece for potential clients.

The result,an award winning AquaTekture entitled “Earth Elements” is a celebration of color and textures. The vision was to create multiple quaint, intimate entertaining spaces utilizing a Feng Shui inspired environment with fire,water, pebbles, planting and other natural elements within a limited space. Multiple elevations were incorporated to add depth and dimension to the setting.

And, making the most of the space,design elements were strategically placed to provide intriguing views from the various sitting areas. Large poolside lounging rocks are fashioned with solid colored custom cushions. The setting is completed by adding a mix of desert and tropical foliage.  In addition, the large covered patio area provides shaded cover for the outdoor dining setting, a walk up indoor-outdoor bar, a regulation size pool table and a large screen TV.

Working with an APSP Certified Building Professional (CBP) ensures you are contracting with one of the pool industries top building professionals.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InQ6U1SEHgM&feature=player_embedded

If you are looking to add more appeal to your pool and spa with the soothing sounds and visuals of a water element.  Adding natural stone to the spa spillover allows the water to trickle down the dam wall.  

Now that April has arrived, the weather is getting warmer and the family will spend more time outdoors. Duckie, the Float Like A Duck Mascot remindseveryone to enforce the ABC&D's of water safety!

Each of the world’s oceans and shore lines has its own distinctive palette influenced by depth, soil, sand and the ocean bed. Other elements influencing water hues in nature include temperature, animal and plant life, and tide flows.

And, much like in nature, the color and reflective quality of pool water is affected by the interior elements. In addition, to traditional white and colored plasters, interior finishes of quartz or pebble are available in a vast array of colors and grades. And endless options abound for all-tile interiors. 

Latest article in WAVES magazine-India.

One of the most vital components in pool construction is the circulation system.  Plumbing is to the pool as the veins and arteries are to the human body.

See my latest article in WAVES: India's pool, spa & bath magazine. 

Living in Vegas gives us a great selection of award winning dining experiences.

With the International Pool and Spa Show in Vegas this past November,  pool industry insiders shared some of their favorite dining spots on and just off the strip with Pool and Spa News.

My selections- BESO in Crystals at CityCenter and NINE Steakhouse in the Palms! 

If you are looking for great dining spots to entertain guests over the holidays- read my review along with the others!

A call for a remodel project lead our team to the pool shown in the middle photo, the new homeowner hated the existing pool, which he referred to as "the polar bear pool" .

He desired something more visually appealing, as well as a design that would accomodate the family's needs.  

In the current issue of Aqua Magazine, I axplain how our team utilizes Structure Studios3-D pool studio software  in presenting  the design to their clients.    For the full article click on the pictures above, image on left is the screen shot from the 3-d program, the right image is the actual photo.   

I had a great time as a guest on Prime Time Fitness  with Host Coach Corky- we touched on a variety of topics from water safety, to enjoying one's backyard spaces, the joys and health benefits of pools and spas and designing and building pools.  Thanks Corky and Scott and the production team at KLAV AM 1230 , the 1 hour show ran Tuesday 6.21.2011 from 8pm-9pm